Integrity
Whatever Job lost, he still maintained his integrity. In the midst of his pain, his grief, his loss, and the relentless criticism of his "friends" he could say confidently that he had truly acted righteously.
Integrity is a powerful defense, especially in times of hardship, criticism and affliction. Otherwise, you can't help but think the things that are happening are a result of your own sin. Instead of seeking answers to your suffering, there is a sense of guilt--the thought that you actually deserve what's happening, that God is punishing you. This was obviously what Job's critics were thinking, but not Job. He knew that whatever this was about, it was not the result of his own sin. What confidence!
The key, as I see it, is to be a person of integrity so that when adversity comes, when criticism is launched, you can stand before God and others knowing you have done no evil. Though you lose everything else, you can maintain your integrity.
Created about 3 years ago
