Daily reading assignment – Job 32-34
Job 32 introduces us to Elihu, a fourth “friend” of Job and the youngest of the men. Elihu has been deferentially silent to this point; however, he now joins the others by not only condemning Job, but also his “friends” who have failed to convince Job of his sin.
Job 32 marks the beginning of Elihu’s monologue and his judgment and condemnations will fill six chapters (Job 32-37).
Elihu’s introductory statements reflect the proud, zealous spirit of inexperienced youth (32:1-3, 5). In his own words, he confesses, “I am full of matter…my belly is as wine which hath no vent; it is ready to burst” (32:18-19).
The young man boasts, though he is a man of clay like Job (33:6), he will nevertheless, offer insight that has so far not been introduced into the matter of Job’s suffering. Rehearsing Job’s defense (33:8-11), Elihu accuses the poor man of striving against God (33:13).
Elihu contends that God not only stirs the conscience of sinners with dreams and visions (which He did in ancient times before the canon of scriptures was complete; ex. 1 Corinthians 13:10; Hebrews 1:1-2); He also employs sorrows and sufferings to awaken humility and conviction within the heart of man (33:19-22).
Before I rush pass this point, allow me to pause and take a moment to reflect on Elihu’s observation. While not all trials and troubles are indicative of sin and God’s chastening; believers should not dismiss them without honestly pondering…
Why is God allowing hurts and disappointments to assail my soul? (note – Hebrews 12:5-13)
We live in a sin-cursed world and trials and troubles are the lot of mankind and we can take heart knowing God is sovereign. We are confident that “all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
However, let us not dismiss trials and fail to recognize they are often tools God employs to bring His child to humility and divert them from a path that could potentially bring them, their marriage, and family to ruin.
Elihu speaks truth when he reminds Job the LORD is gracious (33:24-25), merciful (33:28), and hears the prayer of repentant souls (33:26-27). He invites Job to speak in his own defense (33:32); however, before he is able to do so, his young “friend” rushes on pressing his case against the old man (Job 34).
If you are shadowed by troubles and sorrows, search your heart and remember…
Psalm 34:17-19 – “The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. 18 The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. 19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.”
Copyright 2020 – Travis D. Smith
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