Job has been difficult for me. I listened to parts of Job via audiobook and when I finally sat down to do my reading for the day, I had both my ESV and my NLT side by side. I normally have very little issue with comprehending what I read, but Job has kicked my butt. I definitely recommend reading Job in NLT.
I loved chapter 28, where Job talks of how people know where to find treasures and riches, how to see in the dark, but do not know where to find wisdom. Wisdom only comes from God. God is wisdom. Job’s friends have been continuing their dialogue of repent, repent wicked man. They lecture Job on the power of the Lord and how we are like worms to Him, but in turn are taught of the majesty of God and His wisdom by Job. Are we seeking after worldly treasures or are we seeking after wisdom from the source, God?
Passage:
Job 15-28
Discovered:
- Eliphaz: the wise don’t ramble on, you are an ungrateful wind bag too good for God. The wicked do not escape punishment.
- Job: You are lousy comforters, you shake your head at me. There is little left of me. My spirit is broken, my hope is gone. Find a better argument, but I doubt I will think you wise.
- Bildad: Why do you think us stupid? The wicked receive their reward-lose everything, their light snuffed out.
- Job: You crush and insult me. You use my situation as an argument against me. The Lord has taken from me, I am considered worthless to all. Have mercy on me!
- My Redeemer lives and will stand upon the earth even though my flesh is destroyed, I will see God face to face.
- Zophar:I must speak! Do you not know the wicked live short lives? The wicked will not prosper long for God’s wrath will consume him.
- Job: If the wicked live short lives then why do they live to be old, raise families? They dance and sing. The wicked prosper. You say that their children will suffer for their sin.
- Eliphaz: Your wickedness must be abundant!
- But if you return to God, you will be blessed!
- Job: I have looked for God, but He was not found. I want to plead my case before the Lord where I will be innocent. I have not strayed from the path of His ways. I am in fear/awe of God for He does as He wills. I do not understand why the wicked are not punished.
- Bildad: God is almighty so how can we be right before God, not even the stars are perfect in His eyes, we measure up as maggots.
- Job: lashes out sarcastically, how would I have known without you?
- God’s majesty: nothing hides from Him. He created it all.
As long as I have breath in my lungs I will maintain my integrity. May my enemies face punishment. I will instruct you (his friends) in the ways of the Lord.
People know where to find treasure, riches but do not know where to find wisdom.
Wisdom comes from God! He is wisdom!
Help me to remember:
that wisdom comes from You!
Lord, I ask that . . .
I remember Your Majesty! Remind me to seek Your wisdom and not treasures of the world.
Heavenly Father, I am thankful for . . .
the example of Job’s faithfulness
