Job 2:1-13

Main Idea: The way we respond to suffering reveals our view of God, therefore a faithful response honors God and comforts the hurting.

Head Change: To know that we are part of a larger cosmic story centered on God, not ourselves.

Heart Change: To feel comfortable allowing the mystery of our suffering to coexist with faith.

Life Change: To come alongside suffering friends as companions, comforting through our presence before using our words.

What is your favorite era of history to read or learn about?

Read Job 2:1–13

Who is the central figure in the story of Job?

What is the point of our existence?

What is your reaction to the conversation between God and Satan? If you could ask God any question about his decision to allow Job’s suffering, what would you say?

Read Job 2:1–8

How do you respond to others when you are in pain? Do you think clearly and behave normally? If you had the choice, how would you prefer to handle relationships on days when you physically hurt?

In what ways does putting Job’s losses in modern terms impact the way you see his story? What—if anything—would you be saying to God if you were in this scenario?

How well do you allow yourself time to acknowledge your deep hurts? In what ways have you felt pressured to move on from, or get over, grief before you were ready? What value do you see in resting in the painful present?

Read Job 2:8–10

What is your typical view of God when suffering comes your way? How have you approached God during past difficulties?

In what circumstances have your expectations of God not been met? What does it look like to accept God’s actions, even when they are not what you want him to do?

What is your typical reaction to pain? How do you reconcile a good God with painful times?

What do you need from your friends when you are mourning or suffering? What did it look like when someone comforted you effectively?

Read Job 2:11–13

Which of these three responses is most meaningful to you in your grief? Do you feel like their response is helpful? Why or why not?

When someone you love is in pain, what does your first impulse to help look like? In what ways can your response look more like Job’s friends?

If you are currently suffering or know someone who is, what could a faithful response to your pain or theirs look like?