Job 2:11-4:17: God in the Dark

For more context before you begin studying, read this introduction to the book of Job.

For every ten people that can withstand the temptations of adversity, only one can stand prosperity—or so it is said. It was different with our Old Testament hero. Job has handled his prosperity as a ministry, and later defends his stewardship of abundance (29:7-25; 31:24-25). But now he is plunged into excruciating loss, a living death. This new test will examine whether his belief in the goodness of God can be subverted by hopelessly negative circumstances. Job will ask the questions that we asked when life is hardest.

Warming Up to God

When have you been tempted to doubt God's goodness? What questions did you ask? What thoughts, if any, did you have of God?

Read Job 2:11-4:17

Discovering the Word

• At this point in the story Job's three friends travel a considerable distance to console Job. What actions of the friends indicate they understood how deeply Job was suffering (2:11-13)?
• From chapters 3 through 31 the story moves from prose to poetry as Job's three friends discuss the meaning of his adversity and where—if anywhere—God was present in the darkness. In what ways does Job's response to his suffering go beyond asking the usual why (3:1-10)?
• What does Job think God's role is in all this (3:11, 16)?
• What new questions does Job ask in 3:20-26?
• Each of Job's three friends makes a speech, with Job responding—a cycle that gets repeated three times in the book. Eliphaz responds cautiously at first and then attacks. Why does Eliphaz think Job is suffering (4:7-11)?

Applying the Word

• Eliphaz thinks he has God's word (4:12-17). Job only has dark questions. What have you learned so far about finding God in the midst of pain and loss?
• How do you feel about living with unanswered questions?

Responding in Prayer

Initially, Job's friends were good comforters (2:11-13) simply by being there. Pray for someone you know who needs comfort. Ask God to show you what you can offer that person.