Day 27

In the last two chapters of Job’s speech in this book (he will speak again but only in response to the Lord) he further recounts his suffering. But it moves a bit beyond that broad idea to laying out how he has been mistreated and lost his standing in the community. He is now mocked by those younger than him…and who would be considered fairly worthless young men (30:1). He is taunted and he lives in terror as his honor is gone. He states that he cried out for help, but evil came instead. He is troubled and restless.

Then in chapter 31 he recounts his his life of dignity and honor. He recounts how he was considered a man who was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil (1:1). He had made a covenant not to lustfully look upon a woman (31:1). He was a man who was well known for his generosity and righteousness. There weren’t secret complaints about Job. He dealt justly and graciously with those around him, and especially those in his charge. And even though he was wealthy he never trusted in it (31:24-28). And he never laughed at misfortune that he observed in others.

Job has continued to state and maintain that he is one of integrity and he is innocent (not worthy of this suffering). But yet he has no comfort. Job’s only hope for an answer to his questions lie with one who has to this point been silent.

• What do you do when God is silent?

• What comfort do you turn to?