The Gospel According to Job: An Honest Look at Pain and Doubt from the Life of One Who Lost Everything

I have already bought several for hurting friends. Regardless of the test or trial, this book, written by a man who also found himself needing encouragement through a trial, speaks exactly to the heart of the reader in a storm.A study on the man who lost it all and found recovery through God, offers reassurance unlike any other book I have read in the subject. Like Job...you will pull through, better than before.

In devotional form Mike Mason continually makes two points that were notable to me: the perfect righteousness of believers before the Father and that virtually the entire gospel message is on display in the story of Job. I read this at a time of great suffering in my life. It didn't resolve my pain but greatly helped me find meaning in it and not question God's love for me. The writing style in many passages reminded me of the best of Chesterton. Delightful to read just on the basis of the beauty of the prose. One of my all-time favorite spiritual books.

This book is unquestionably the most life-changing book I have ever read outside of the Bible. Far from being perfect, Job is instead perhaps the most consistently honest,outspoken character in the Bible outside of Jesus, and I have come to realize that as I proceed slowly through this book. Two-page chapters make it not only unique, but in comparison to brief devotional readings, this book is so deep and so challenging.Just about all of my pre-conceived notions about God have taken somewhat of a beating outside of the knowledge that Jesus is Lord, but my awareness of Him and His great provision for us all has grown by leaps and bounds as a result of this book. Another result is that Job is now my favorite non-Jesus character in the Bible, perhaps because I see so much of myself in him, and can therefore relate to his struggles.Buy it, read it, pass it along. It is a hidden gem. And chalk up another five-star rating to add to Mason's already perfect 10.UPDATE: I am now almost finished reading this book through for the third time. I have never done that before with any book other than the Bible. I am also ordering another copy today for someone I just met who is struggling. For others who are facing struggles of their own, who are hurting and asking "Why?", this is the book to get or to give!UPDATE : Now, in 2017, I am reading through this wonderful book yet again. I have lost count of my number of readings, or of the number of copies I have given away. And Job continues to be my favorite character in the Bible outside of Jesus. The Book of Job has also now become my favorite book in all of the Old Testament, admittedly against some tough competition.The questions of when, where and how the information all came together in this fascinating account remain; insight into it all, though, offers encouragement and hope to all who struggle with ever-increasing burdens, attack, and loss in a nation and a world that seem to have lost their way.

Mike Mason is a good writer. I enjoyed this book and some of his others (Champagne for the Soul). Though Job is one of the earliest of the Patriarchs, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is weaved all throughout it. Mike Mason effectively demonstrates this.

There are a few points where I disagree on theological points but over all, this is a very indepth and thoughtful examination unlike any I have ever seen before on the matter of Job's horrific experiences...and how YHWH's faithfulness and covenant relationship with HIs people stands even when confusion seems to reign.

No new books availableHowever this book is on good shape and I'll be doing a Bible study with a family member. Waiting for her used book too arrive.Suggested by another as an Excellent study

Mike Mason's "The Gospel According to Job" creates a biblical sufferology: a theology of suffering. Point by point, or, more accurately, verse by verse, Mason guides readers, like an ancient spiritual director, into the depth of human suffering. His co-guide is the greatest human sufferer of all time--Job.As Mason explains in his preface, "The Gospel According to Job" is not a commentary but a devotional. Those looking for an exegetical commentary will, therefore, be disappointed. However, those looking for an accurate, unique, refreshing, practical explanation of the life of Job, will be encouraged.Mason is a skilled wordsmith which makes this rather lenghty book an easy read, as does the two-to-three page "chapters." Many of the insights, in particular that Job is about Job, more than it is about God, are startling. In fact, readers of this review are likely saying, "What!? How can Job NOT be about God?" Oh, it is. But it is MORE about God's view of Job than it is about Job's view of God. If I say more, I'll ruin the suspense . . .Not every "chapter" provides the same depth of insight, with some more provocative and perhaps more exegetically grounded than others. But, isn't that the way with a "devotional book." More than enough chapters are "dead on" to make "The Gospel According to Job" a powerful addition to your arsenal in the battle for your soul when Satan assaults.Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of "Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction," "Soul Physicians," "Spiritual Friends," and the forthcoming "Sacred Friendships: Listening to the Voices of Women Soul Care-Givers and Spiritual Directors."

I read this years ago during a painful time of loss and suffering. It was like a light in the dark, and a comfort to my wounded heart. I gave that copy away to someone in need. Bought it again and reread it. Still brilliant even when no longer suffering. It is a cross between a full commentary on Job and a deeply touching devotional and inspirational book. It is less about the scholarly aspects of many Biblical commentaries, and more about pulling out and applying timeless truths to hurting souls. Excellent book.

I haven't finished this book yet. I start it, then put it aside, then start it again. It is heavy and deep and extremely amazing. I keep digging more jewels from it each time I begin. It helps me to understand the questions about Job that I was never able to articulate; it challenges me to be genuine, courageous, and determined to let God's Word touch me even when it hurts.

A must read. Mike Mason is an inspired and down to earth Christian writer. Reads as two-page reflections on particular verses. Job had a New Testament faith and this book unpacks the extent of God's love. This book is an eye opener and a hope giver.

An honest look at this age old problem of sufferingWas my inspiration for years as I was recovering from it

This is my second copy. I wore the first one out. This is a great book to encourage anybody going through tough times. It is also a book that you can dip into. Each chapter is short (only two pages) so it can be used as a daily devotional.

Really brings Job's story to life. Excellent author. Bought my copy on kindle and bought two books for friends