And the Lord restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. (Job 42:10 NKJV)

Job’s character is evidenced neither by his material wealth, nor his suffering, both of which he had in abundance.

There are those who believe that wealth is a sure sign of God’s favor on a person’s life; and, although it is true that. God desires to bless His people, one’s wealth is not necessarily proof of their integrity.

On the other hand, there are people who believe that suffering and sorrow are marks of true godliness. These people often disdain and discredit anyone who is blessed more than they are.

Job’s character was proven by his humility, repentance, and willingness to forgive. It had nothing to do with how much, or how little he had. The Apostle Paul would echo this truth many generations later by saying, “Whether I have much or little, I have learned to be content.”

A significant breakthrough for Job took place when he humbled himself before God, and repented for his sin. Some have mistakenly taught that Job was perfectly sinless throughout his terrible suffering. Although Job showed great depth of character, he was, by his own admission, guilty of sinning. God confronted Job with his sin, and Job repented. That’s a man of character.

But beyond repentance, There was another step that God required of Job – a difficult one for anyone with any element of pride at all. God required job to forgive his friends and to pray for them.

These were the guys who slandered Job and questioned his character. God clearly pointed out that they were wrong, and Job knew it! Still, God said, “Forgive.” So Job forgave.

It is no coincidence that Job’s act of forgiveness and prayer is immediately followed by an outpouring of God’s blessings in his life. Double blessing came to Job, because of his double-obedience, first to repent of his own sin, and second, to forgive other people of their sin.

There is JOY in receiving forgiveness.
But there is also JOY in giving forgiveness.

Freely you have received, now freely give.