June 23
Read Job 34
In Today's
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 for not having an answer, but he 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 had 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 those of) wicked men. For he adds rebellion to his sin . . . and multiplies his words against God (34:35-37).
Elihu's conclusions contradicted the testimony of God, who later would say 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 (see 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.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in memory of Mr. & Mrs. Carl Pagel · BPM Staff: Allen Joslyn · Government Officials: Rep. Baron Hill (IN) and Justice Clarence Thomas · Country: Comoros (563,000) in the Mozambique Channel of the Indian Ocean · Major languages: Shaafi Islam (Swahili dialect) and Malagasy · Limited religious freedom · 99.7% Muslim; .2% Roman Catholic/Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you discernment in all decisions (I Corinthians 2:14).
Optional
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Thessalonians 4:7