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Bible Pathways 06/23/04


 
June 23, 2004
Read Job 34 - 37
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 your (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 . . . there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man (1:8). Elihu falsely stated that Job has said, It profits 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 has spoken without knowledge, and his words were without wisdom. My desire is that Job may be tried to the end because of his answers for (like) wicked men. For he adds rebellion to his sin . . . and multiplies 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 (42:7-8).
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).
Have faith in the wisdom of God, casting all your care (anxiety) upon Him; for He cares 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 = 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.
Pray For:
Government Officials: Rep. Baron Hill (IN) and Justice Clarence Thomas · Country: Gabon (1 million) in west-central Africa · Major language: French · Religious freedom · 66% Roman Catholic; 30% Protestant; 3% animism and ancestor worship

Prayer Suggestion: Pray in one accord with other Christians (Acts 1:14).
Optional Reading: Ephesians 6
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 1:18