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The book of Job is possibly the most ancient part of the ancient Scriptures. Some have classed it with Homer's Iliad and Odyssy, as the mythology of early people to try to explain the reason for evil based on humanly imagined personalities and actions among the gods.

Since I choose to believe that our Bible paints a true picture of real things in the universe, I do think this really happened. I know it is by my choice that I believe and that some people do not choose that belief. Okay, will you stay with me here for a bit so I can explain how my belief works out in dealing with the story of Job.

Please notice these items.

1. There are two supernatural beings at work in our world, but they are not equal in power. The one must ask permission of the other and may not go any farther than the other permits. Two forces exist in supernatural push-pull on this earth, but they are not equal.

2. There are other inhabited worlds, with the "Adam" from each world showing up to present himself before the Lord.

3. Satan came among them, presenting himself as the "Adam" from this world. He has hijacked the world, usurped the rulership here, claimed this turf as his.

4. Satan is the accuser. This is what the word "Satan" means. He accuses God of bribing Job, or at the least mollycoddling Job. He accuses Job in the courtroom of the universe of simply serving God for the good life rewarded by that service.

5. Satan is the originator of accusation. Any time there are accusations of any nature, I can be sure Satan is at work.

6. God does not have to answer Satan's accusations. He is the stronger of the two. He could simply zap Satan out of existence. But God chooses to make demonstration in the theater of the universe of the steadfastness of his servant Job.

7. God knows Job will stand fast because God himself is steadfast and has imparted that quality to Job through long years of working together on earth.

8. At first, I don't like the idea that I might be used as a player on the stage of the universe when it's really two other forces fighting. However, by reading the book of Job I have come to peace about it and even a bit of joy and awe that God, in infinite mercy and tenderness, might choose to demonstrate His marvelous character through me.