And there were born unto him seven sons and three daughters.
Job stands among God's appointed witnesses, men who willingly exposed themselves to reproach and persecution for the sake of truth. The mention of his seven sons and three daughters presents the fullness of his family blessing at the opening of his test. That blessing formed the background for what followed, when he was stripped of his worldly possessions and afflicted in body until he was abhorred by his own relatives and friends. Even under that combined loss, disease, and rejection, he maintained his integrity and did not surrender his loyalty to God.
His steadfastness in suffering bears witness that God's promises are faithful and unfailing. It bears witness also to God's abiding presence with His people and to His sustaining grace in trial. It shows the power of faith to withstand the powers of the world, for true faith rests in God even in the darkest hour.
Job stands among God's appointed witnesses, men who willingly exposed themselves to reproach and persecution for the sake of truth. The mention of his seven sons and three daughters presents the fullness of his family blessing at the opening of his test. That blessing formed the background for what followed, when he was stripped of his worldly possessions and afflicted in body until he was abhorred by his own relatives and friends. Even under that combined loss, disease, and rejection, he maintained his integrity and did not surrender his loyalty to God.
His steadfastness in suffering bears witness that God's promises are faithful and unfailing. It bears witness also to God's abiding presence with His people and to His sustaining grace in trial. It shows the power of faith to withstand the powers of the world, for true faith rests in God even in the darkest hour.