Highlights:
Elihu gets critical and accuses Job of being arrogant (chap. 34). Then, in case Job is forgetful, he reminds him of the justice of God (chap. 35). Elihu keeps talking and reminds Job of the power of God (chap. 36 — 37).
Elihu did not speak until Job's three friends had ended their accusations. He condemned Job's three friends but expressed even greater hostility toward Job. Four times in five verses we read variations of the phrase that Elihu's wrath was kindled (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 to intercede on Job's behalf and that he was according to thy (Job's) wish in God's stead (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 (34:5). The fact is Job acknowledged his imperfection as sin in 7:21 and 13:26. However, the Lord proclaimed Job as My servant . . . that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man (1:8). Elihu falsely stated that Job hath said, It profiteth a man nothing that he should delight himself with God (34:9). But Job never said that. Elihu continued his vicious attack on this dear, godly man, saying: Job hath spoken without knowledge, and his words were without wisdom. My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end because of his answers for (like) wicked men. For he addeth rebellion unto his sin . . . and multiplieth his words against God (34:35-37).
Elihu's conclusions were in direct opposition to the testimony of God, who said that Job had spoken of Me the thing that is right (42:7).
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 (Rom. 8:28; also Gen. 50:20).
Have faith in the wisdom of God, casting all your care (anxiety) upon Him; for He careth for you (I Pet. 5:7).
Thought for Today:
The anointing of God upon the song — "Yes, Lord" — has been a great blessing to us every time we sing it in our devotions. The author Jean Lipsius has given permission to let the Pathway family be blessed too.
Christ Revealed:
As the One who watches how we live and what we do (Job 34:21). The Lord keeps His eyes on the righteous (I Pet. 3:12).
Word Studies:
34:36 for evil men =of evil men; 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 vapour =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 Staff: Dan Murton • Government Officials: Rep. Baron Hill (IN) and Justice Clarence Thomas • Country: Nigeria (113.8 million) in western Africa • Major languages: English and Hausa • Government permits all types of religious activity • 45% Muslim (largely Sunni); 40% Christian; 9% Indigenous; 6% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Believe that what God promises, He will bring to pass (Gen. 15:1-6 & 21:1-3).
Optional Reading: Ephesians 6
Memory Verse for the Week: 2 Corinthians 3:18