(Essay) Why did God allow Job to experience severe suffering?

What do you think is the briefest summary of the Book of Job? It could be Jeremiah 29:11-13.  

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

If so, what would be God's plan to give hope and a future to Job?

Some people might think of Job 42:10 and 12.

"The Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before...The Lord blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the former part."

Being rich in properties must be God's blessing, but they're not the first things. Matthew 6:33 teaches us the correct answer.

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

The verse that is relating to his kingdom and his righteousness is Job 42: 5.  

"My ears had heard of you, and now my eyes have seen you."

A personal encounter with God! It was the fabulous plan God had prepared for Job through his sufferings.

And that is the same as Jeremiah 29:13.  "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

God allowed Job to experience severe suffering so that Job might seek first the kingdom and the righteousness of God.