Bible Pathways 06/23/2003
June 23
Read Job 34 -- 37
In Today's Reading:
Elihu continues his accusations against Job
Elihu, a younger man, did not speak until Job's three friends had ended their accusations. He first condemned Job's three friends for not being able to convince Job that he was a sinner. Elihu then expressed even greater hostility toward Job because he refused to admit that he had sinned. Four times in five verses we read variations of the phrase that Elihu was infuriated with anger (Job 32:1-5).
This young egotist referred to himself by the words "me," "my," and "I" at least 55 times to inform Job that he alone was chosen of God to intercede on Job's behalf. "Listen to me and I will teach you wisdom" (32:6 — 33:33). Elihu's accusations against Job's testimony are, at best, half-truths and misinterpretations (33:8-13).
One of Elihu's accusations was that Job had claimed to be sinlessly perfect (34:6). The fact is Job acknowledged his imperfection as sin (7:21; 13:26). However, the Lord had proclaimed Job as His servant and said that no one equaled him in being righteous (1:8). Elihu falsely accused Job of saying that it was a waste of time to try to please God (34:9). But, Job never said that. Elihu continued his vicious attack on this dear, godly man by implying that Job did not use good judgment, lacked insight, and talked like an evil man, and that he did all this because he was living in rebellion against God (34:35-37).
Elihu's conclusions were in direct opposition to the testimony of God, Who said that Job was perfect and later said that Job did use good judgment and had told the truth (42:7-8).
During times of personal afflictions, heartbreaking bereavement, persecution, or financial struggles, we are often tempted to become depressed and even fail to pray. That is when we need someone's loving comfort and assurance that our Lord ultimately controls every situation that comes into our lives. Regardless of how bad it may seem, He wants to use it for our good and for His glory (Romans 8:28; also Genesis 50:20). Without hesitation or exception, let us maintain faith in the wisdom of God and in His compassionate love for each one of us (I Peter 5:7).
Christ Revealed:
As the One who watches how we live and all we do (Job 34:21). The Lord keeps His eyes on the righteous (I Peter 3:12).
Word Studies:
34:36 for = have been like those of; 36:8 holden = held fast; 36:16 no straitness = no restraint or restriction; 36:23 enjoined = appointed; gave orders; 36:33 The noise thereof sheweth concerning it, the cattle also concerning the vapor = His thunder announces the coming storm; even the cattle make known its approach; 37:10 straitened = frozen; 37:22 terrible = awesome.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Rick Sanchez and the Bible Pathway Radio Broadcasts on KIJN-AM/FM, Farwell, TX · BPM Staff: Benjamin Wallace · Government Officials: Rep. Baron Hill (IN) and Justice Clarence Thomas · Country: Grenada (97,000) southernmost of the Windward Islands · Major language: English · Religious freedom · 61% Roman Catholic; 31% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Pray persistently; you will receive an answer (Luke 11:9-10).
Optional Reading: Ephesians 6
Memory Verse for the Week: John 8:31-32
