6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord , and [1]Satan also came among them. 7 The Lord said to Satan , "From where do you come ?" Then Satan answered the Lord and said , " From roaming about on the earth and walking around on it." 8 The Lord said to Satan , "Have you [2]considered e e My servant Job ? For there is no one like him on the earth , a blameless and upright man , [3]fearing God and turning away from evil ." 9 Then Satan answered the [4]Lord , "Does Job fear God for nothing ? 10 " Have You not made a hedge about him and his house and all that he has, on every side ? You have blessed the work of his hands , and his possessions have increased in the land . 11 " But put forth Your hand now and touch all that he has; he will surely e curse You to Your face ." 12 Then the Lord said to Satan , "Behold , all that he has is in your [5]power , only do not put forth your hand on him." So Satan departed from the presence of the Lord .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 1:6-12
Commentary on Job 1:6-12
(Read Job 1:6-12)
Job's afflictions began from the malice of Satan, by the Lord's permission, for wise and holy purposes. There is an evil spirit, the enemy of God, and of all righteousness, who is continually seeking to distress, to lead astray, and, if possible, to destroy those who love God. How far his influence may extend, we cannot say; but probably much unsteadiness and unhappiness in Christians may be ascribed to him. While we are on this earth we are within his reach. Hence it concerns us to be sober and vigilant, Revelation 20:1. He has no power to lead men to sin, but what they give him themselves; nor any power to afflict men, but what is given him from above. All this is here described to us after the manner of men. The Scripture speaks thus to teach us that God directs the affairs of the world.