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Bible Pathways - June 23, 2006


Job 34

In Today's Reading:

Elihu continues his accusations against Job

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 (Romans 8:28; also Genesis 50:20).

Have faith in the wisdom of God, casting all your care (anxiety) upon Him; for He careth for you (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 =b> have been like those of; 36:8 holden =b> held fast; 36:16 no straitness =b> no restraint or restriction; 36:23 enjoined =b> appointed; gave orders; 36:33 The noise thereof sheweth concerning it, the cattle also concerning the vapor =b> His thunder announces the coming storm; even the cattle make known its approach; 37:10 straitened =b> frozen; 37:22 terrible =b> awesome.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The English International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in honor of Rick Hash · Staff: Mike Moore · Government Officials: Rep. Baron Hill (IN) and Justice Clarence Thomas · Country: Barbados (259,000) on the island farthest east in the West Indies · Major language: English · Religious freedom · 79% Protestant; 8% Roman Catholic · Prayer Suggestion: Realize that you are insufficient (Ephesians 6:10-11).

Optional Reading: Ephesians 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 1:2



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