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The Ark Brought to Jerusalem

1 Chronicles 13-15

Chapter 13 provides the narrative of David’s desire and attempt to return the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem. Ezra (assuming he’s the author of Chronicles), places this narrative out of sequence, up front, perhaps to emphasize David’s heart and desire to please God and the people. The first few verses show that everyone agreed this was a good idea; however, no one apparently remembered to proper procedures — or perhaps they were afraid to tell the new king he was making a mistake. Interesting thought.

David wanted to make a big production out of transferring the ark–all good intentions–but failed to properly transport the ark as laid out the law. Only the Levites (specifically the Kohathite clan (see Exodus 25:12-15 and Numbers 4:15) were supposed to carry the articles of the temple and even they were further instructed on how to carry it with certain poles, etc.

He failed. Uzzah died.

It’s interesting that verse 10 says, “the Lord’s anger” followed by verse 11, “David was angry.” David’s party was a bust and he knew he blew it in front of all of Israel.

David was afraid of God that day
1 Chronicles 13:12

This is real fear, the kind of fear born from guilt and recognition that he was mistaken, that perhaps he had his focus too much on his own glory. I feel bad for David. Years of hiding and running from Saul are finally over and he has assembled an incredible army of devoted fighting men. God is certainly on his side. So many times we see amazing, gifted leaders, filled with the Holy Spirit, get out of step with God’s plan. Unintentionally, they let their personal agenda out-rank that of God’s plan. The results are always disastrous. The only real question is when, not if; they will fall?

David’s reaction is to leave the ark in the nearby village:

The ark of God remained with the family of Obed-Edom in his house for three months, and the Lord blessed his household and everything he had. 1 Chronicles 13:14

God honored those who cared for the ark, again my presumption is simple: Obed-Edom sought to honor God above David; therefore, the Lord blessed them.

David got his act together quickly and the Lord blessed him with many children (though I’m hard-pressed to understand the “many” wives idea). In Chapter 14, the narrative shows David asking God for direction, then promptly defeating the Philistines, not once, but twice.

Now David is on the right path, he is walking in step with the Lord.

It was because you, the Levites, did not bring it up the first time that the Lord our God broke out in anger against us. We did not inquire of him about how to do it in the prescribed way.” 1 Chronicles 15:13

“We” seems a little defensive, but perhaps David was given bad advice, so it may be that he is simply deflecting the blame and letting the people know he was part of the “we.”

Chapter 15 shows a careful account of moving the ark properly, complete with the combined worship teams and full celebration! Here we go–try #2!

I love this thought:

So David and the elders of Israel and the commanders of units of a thousand went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord from the house of Obed-Edom, with rejoicing. 1 Chronicles 15:25

“With rejoicing.” There is nothing like ministry when everyone is in step, when all hearts and voices are honoring and praising the Lord! It’s difficult to put into words, perhaps impossible, but the sense you get when you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that what you’re doing in the moment is exactly what God wants you to be doing is sensational. That’s the sense I get from the phrase, with rejoicing, here. So cool.

But wait, there’s Michal watching from afar. She is not so moved by the show. The details in 2 Samuel 6:14 show that David was dancing with all his might, undignified in her eyes, so she despised David. Sad to read the result in 2 Samuel 6:23, she had no children to the day of her death.

So goes the roller-coaster of ministry here on earth where God’s imperfect people try to do their best. Lord, don’t let the downs outweigh the ups! Help us to celebrate freely and not be so focused on those who want to selfishly point out our mistakes. Grace to grace. Your will above ours. Teach us to love each other:

…being like-minded,
having the same love,
being one in spirit and of one mind.
Philippians 2:2

Yes, Lord, help us to be that community of believers that leans on each other. I hope and pray that we can do this while keeping you the center of all.

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David’s Leadership Established

1 Chronicles 11-12

Chapter 10 quickly covered the end of Saul’s life to clear the way for David to ascend to the throne. The remainder of 1st Chronicles adds details to 2nd Samuel’s coverage of King David’s life in many interesting ways, most notably, naming the valiant warriors alluded to in 2nd Samuel. Second Chronicles does the same for 1&2 Kings. In hindsight, I probably should have added these chapters to the previous posts through 1&2 Samuel and 1&2 Kings–next time, there’s always next time!

David honored God with his steadfast loyalty to Saul, even though it was difficult to appreciate. Now the people are prepared to embrace their new king. David’s first act here is to march into Jebus (as Pastor Mark Gasque reminded us a few months ago) and confront the Jebusites:

The Jebusites who lived there said to David,
“You will not get in here.” Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion–which is the City of David.
1 Chronicles 11:4-5

In two verses we read three different names for Jerusalem: Jebus, Zion and City of David…all depends on context.

Joab rises to the challenge to lead the attack, thereby securing his place as the commander of David’s army. Joab is an interesting character, worthy of a study all by himself. I’m surprised there hasn’t been a movie made about this character since he resembles Rambo, James Bond, and a number of thematic characters that seem to single-handedly win battles. Joab was real. He has great and mighty as well as headstrong and horrible.

David became more and more powerful,
because the Lord Almighty was with him.
1 Chronicles 11:9

The narrative here is careful to highlight David’s reliance on God, constantly reminding us that he sought God’s approval before running into battles, e.g., “and the Lord brought about a great victory” (1 Chronicles 11:14). If I learn nothing else, I hope this persistent theme gets drilled into my head!

Ezra is considered the writer of Chronicles and essentially the remainder of the history of Israel in the Old Testament. It seems he wanted to memorialize those individuals who led the battles. All this says to me is simply: individuals matter to God. The characters referred to by name in 2 Samuel are introduced here with a verse or two about their mighty acts. Let there be no doubt, these guys were tough and not to be taken down lightly. Abishai and Benaiah are highlighted along with Joab as might warriors. From 1 Chronicles 11:26 through chapter 12, Ezra takes time to list those who honorably served the army well.

The Gadites were notable additions to David’s army:

Their faces were the faces of lions, and they were as swift as gazelles in the mountains…the least was a match for a hundred, and the greatest for a thousand. 1 Chronicles 12:8,14

“Day after day men came to help David, until he had a great army, like the army of God” (1 Chronicles 12:22).

Such were the men that bore the weight of war for Israel. It was a horrible time for war, but God continued to show his care for these chosen people. In many ways, we are at war today–it’s just more spiritual than physical. The depravity of the times we read about here remind us of our current society. Lord, help me see your hand in all things. Make me an instrument of your will in whatever way you choose.

 

 

Related posts:

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Genealogies in Chronicles

1 Chronicles 1-10 and Psalm 76

Cruising through the first 10 chapters of 1 Chronicles we read the long list of names from Adam to Abraham. Quite remarkable when you think about it, especially when you remember God’s restart with Noah.

Then we read the two branches of Abraham’s family: Isaac and Ishmael, Esau and Jacob (aka Israel). The kings of Judah are listed concisely in 1 Chronicles 3:10-16, but interestingly, we don’t have a corresponding list of the northern kings, the lost tribes of Israel.

Jabez

Some years ago, The Prayer of Jabez, by Bruce Wilkinson, was a best seller. Just two verses in between the list of genealogies, the prayer depicts God’s desire to bless those who are faithful:

Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.
1 Chronicles 4:9-10

Published in the year 2000, this small book (in length and in physical size) was a big hit. I guess we all needed to turn our minds toward the possibility that God will bless us if we would simply ask. Certainly a key component of the prosperity Gospel that fuels many ministries, my prayer is this isn’t a stumbling block for those who are seeking Christ. Surely God cares for his people, but we know from experience this doesn’t always mean we gain earthly possessions by request and being free from harm is not guaranteed. To be fair, the book makes no guarantees, but people rarely read carefully and often run down rabbit trails that are not consistent with the rest of scripture.

“And God granted his request” 1 Chronicles 4:10
compared to
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God,
who give generously to all without finding fault,
and it will be given to you” James 1:5

(I had to include the whole verse from James, though I’m sure many simply include the last phrase).

Faith is the cornerstone. Lord, may we believe that you have our best in mind, even when we don’t understand the process, path or journey!

Tribes Listed

The remainder of 1 Chronicles 4 through 8 contains genealogies of the tribes of Israel. I like the fact that we see “The Temple Musicians” listed in their own section (1 Chronicles 6:54-80). Music is an integral part of worship and these early worship leaders had great responsibility and found themselves worthy of being identified among the followers of God.

Chapter 9 ends with the genealogy of Saul followed by a short chapter titled, “Saul Take His Life,” a sad end to the beginning of kings of Israel.

Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the Lord. So the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse. 1 Chronicles 10:13-14

So many names, so little time, hundreds of years are captured here. This quick trip through 10 chapters in 1st Chronicles gives us some perspective: God cares about his people. I think it’s safe to say that those who are faithful are blessed and those who are not do not find joy. Lord, all honor, all praise to you, the author and perfecter or all things. For those who have received Christ, who recognize the need for repentance and put their trust in Jesus, we know our names are included in the Book of Life (Revelation 20:12). Beyond words, but privilege of hearing our names called is incredibly humbling. At the same time, not hearing the names of loved ones is terrifying and sad beyond comprehension. May we remember to pray for the lost, but not take on guilt for their decision to ignore the Holy Spirit.

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Conclusion of Job

Job 42

Job’s response to the Lord is completely humble:

Then Job replied to the Lord:
“I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’
Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me to know.
“You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak;
I will question you, and you shall answer me.’
My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you.
Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.”
Job 42-1-6

This verse is worthy of a stone-etched reminder as my hasty words often shoot out of my mouth: “Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.”

Job knows he isn’t God–that’s not a big revelation. But what he learned through this preposterous story is a full understanding of God, not just the Creator, not just the one who made everything, Job walked away from the conversation with a new sense of who God is:

My ears had heard of you
but now my eyes have seen you.
Job 42:5

The story of Job is summed up in the deep truth that God is God. The narrative took us on a journey through troubled times, through anguish, pain and hurt. We read about friends who came to console, yet scorned. The words of the younger proved more accurate, but we weren’t satisfied until we wrapped our mortal minds around the concept of the Lord himself.

I fall short so many times. It seems I am guilty all too often. Grace after grace is required to keep me humble. As we dig deeper into the word of God, may we continue to gain insight that will help us shine his light into this dark world.

Epilogue

Finished with Job, the Lord speaks to the three amigos:

After the Lord had said these things to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken the truth about me, as my servant Job has. Job 42:7

Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar did not speak properly about God. Their pious point of view prevented them from seeing his majesty and his wisdom escaped them as they argued from selfish perspectives. We should learn from these examples. In addition, notice Elihu is not mentioned in this group. Sometimes it’s good enough to simply NOT be named! We don’t need the spotlight to be moving in the right direction. Just because someone has the microphone, doesn’t mean their right.

I’m reminded of a NeedToBreathe song, Through Smoke, that includes these compelling lyrics:

Before the Truth will come to fill our eyes
The world comes down in the form of fire
And when the the answers and the Truth have cut their ties
Will you still find me
Will you still see me
Through smoke
Songwriters: Nathanial Rinehart / William Rinehart
Through Smoke lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing

When we lie to you, Father, will you still find me? Will you still find me? Yes, says the Lord, I will still find you, though it may be painful and difficult to understand or impossible to comprehend.

What do we do with Job?

It’s time to take inventory of the lessons revealed in Job, to weigh our understanding of the narrative, of the wisdom literature appropriately placed in the center of our Bibles where it’s easy to find, even if it’s difficult to understand. Is this the book to offer the new believer to study? Or perhaps to someone who is considering Christianity? Before you jump in with a resounding, “No,” consider the portrait of God that is vividly painted. If someone is truly seeking to find answers, the description of God here is quite compelling and sets up the Gospel message quite well. Honestly, this is not my “go-to” book, but I hope I’m not afraid to engage in the discussion with someone who is far from God if Job happens to be the book of debate. All the more reason to study the Bible, to have an understanding in my own words and thoughts. Not that this makes me right, but I hope it gives the Holy Spirit something to work with!

 

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God Speaks to Job and his friends

Job 38-41

The words of Elihu dissolve into a faint echo as Job and his friends have nothing to say.

Then the Lord speaks in 124 of the next 129 verses.

“Out of the storm,” Job and his friends hear from God.

“Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge?
Brace yourself like a man;
I will question you, and you shall answer me.
“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?
Tell me, if you understand.
Job 38:2-4

Sit down Job, Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar and hear the words you were unable to put together. Listen, Elihu, for affirmation of your words and perhaps a more complete response.

The narrative over the course of chapters 38, 39, 40 and 41 provides a detailed description of the Lord, the Creator, the one who is in all, with a wide range of examples to provide clarity for us all. This could be a very long list, let me provide some highlights:

  • 38:4. Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?
  • 38:8. Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb
  • 38:12-13. Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by the edges and shake the wicked out of it?
  • 38:19. What is the way to the abode of light? And where does darkness reside?
  • 38:22. Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of the hail?
  • 38:31. Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades? Can you loosen Orion’s belt?
  • 38:35. Do you send the lightning bolts on their way? Do they report to you, ‘Here we are’?
  • 38:41. Who provides food for the raven when its young cry out to God and wander about for lack of food?
  • 39:2. Do you count the months till they bear? Do you know the time they give birth? (mountain goats and deer)
  • 39:5-18. The wild donkey, the wild ox, the ostrich and the stork
  • 39:19. Do you give the horse its strength or clothe its neck with a flowing mane?
  • 39:26-27. The hawk and the eagle

Interspersed among these physical examples, we read:

  • 38:15. The wicked are denied their light, and their upraised arm is broken.
  • 38:17. Have the gates of death been shown to you? Have you seen the gates of the deepest darkness?

Example after example, then the Lord pauses and asks a direction question:

The Lord said to Job:
“Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him?
Let him who accuses God answer him!”
Job 40:1-2

Job’s response, as it should be, is humble:

“I am unworthy—how can I reply to you?
I put my hand over my mouth.
I spoke once, but I have no answer—
twice, but I will say no more.”
Job 40:4-5

For the second time we read:

Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm:
“Brace yourself like a man;
I will question you,
and you shall answer me.
“Would you discredit my justice?
Would you condemn me to justify yourself?
Job 40:6-8

In short, can you replace God? I don’t think so! In Job 41:11 the narrative begins to draw to a close:

Who has a claim against me that I must pay?
Everything under heaven belongs to me.
Job 41:11

In Job 41:12-34 we read a detailed description of Leviathan, the awesome, terrible, wonderfully horrible creature that is unequaled on earth, “a creature without fear” (Job 41:33) — the common theme of nightmares. Yet even this creature is under the thumb of God. How about you Job? Can you handle this? I didn’t think so.

Through imagery and poetic prose, the Lord convicts Job and his friends of “playing God” with their words and puts them in there place. Humility is not easily swallowed. Lord, help me remember my place, but at the same time remind me that I am yours. Through the blood of Jesus I have been adopted into a royal family, one that desires for all to join. Help me not to focus on myself, but to look for ways to reach others and point them to you.

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Elihu’s Speeches; Almighty God

Job 32-37

My intention this morning was to read just a piece of Elihu’s argument; however, I found I could not arbitrarily stop until reading the entire narrative. I’m really glad I did and I encourage anyone who has a chance to bathe in the beauty of these words as he argues against Job and his friends by painting an incredible portrait of our God, the Almighty, the Creator, the lover of my soul.

Elihu “became very angry with Job for justifying himself rather than God. He was also angry with the three friends, because they had found no way to refute Job, and yet had condemned him.” (Job 32:2-3)

Apparently, Elihu has been quietly waiting in the corner as his elders spoke, but he is no longer able to contain himself.

not one of you has proved Job wrong;
none of you has answered his arguments.
Job 32:12

Elihu presents himself as one who is wise, even though he is young; one who will reveal the issues that no one else has been able to articulate. “My words come from an upright heart; my lips sincerely speak what I know.” (Job 33:3). He’s being careful and respectful as he begins, but he is answering the call of the Spirit to speak truth.

God does all these things to a person—
twice, even three times—
to turn them back from the pit,
that the light of life may shine on them.
Job 33:29-20

Elihu boldly tells Job to listen to his speech and if he has something to say to speak up. He sums up Job’s entire argument with this: “For he says, ‘There is no profit in trying to please God.’” (Job 34:9). Listen, men of old, and hear this clear message:

It is unthinkable that God would do wrong, that the Almighty would pervert justice.
Who appointed him over the earth?
Who put him in charge of the whole world?
If it were his intention and he withdrew his spirit and breath,
all humanity would perish together and mankind would return to the dust.
Job 34:12-15

God is the Almighty, he is to be honored above all else. Elihu begins his argument by realigning his friends thoughts. To underscore the power and majesty of God, he presents these questions:

If you sin, how does that affect him?
If your sins are many, what does that do to him?
If you are righteous, what do you give to him, or what does he receive from your hand?
Job 35:6-7

The rhetorical question is answered in part in the next verse: “Your wickedness only affects humans like yourself, and your righteousness only other people.”

Here we have a very interesting theme presented in the middle of the mayhem: sin disrupts our fellowship. The moral right and wrong is not for adding to our heavenly reward account, it is for the body of Christ, for the building up of each other. How can we make disciples is we are focused otherwise? We simply can’t be effective. God doesn’t need our sacrifices and he certainly doesn’t need our approval.

Elihu makes the case against Job. God does not respond to the cries of the arrogant,

How much less, then, will he listen when you say that you do not see him,
that your case is before him and you must wait for him,
and further, that his anger never punishes and he does not take the least notice of wickedness.
So Job opens his mouth with empty talk; without knowledge he multiplies words.”
Job 35:14-16

The case against Job and his friends is a lengthy one, but here’s a wonderful verse to keep hidden in your heart:

God is mighty, but despises no one
Job 36:5

Elihu continues his vivid description of God well into the next chapter, words that provide perspective, comfort and fear all at the same time. God is powerful, amazing, dancing in the lighting, bathing in the depths of oceans–God is so powerful and majestic while at the same time caring and compassionate. Awesome God indeed!

As he comes to a close of his colorful speech, Elihu leaves a question for Job:

“Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders.”
Job 37:14

All our troubles pale in comparison to God. This may not alleviate the temporary pain of this life, but when held in proper perspective, my cries out to God to explain himself to me fall short and, quite frankly, seem embarrassing. Who am I to question God? When I see the psalms question God, does that give me liberty to lash out at our Creator?

Lord, help me to hear the words of Elihu and learn. As the words flow through my mind this morning I am comforted, humbled, sad, elated, filled with joy and ashamed–all at the same time. In the end, though, I think I have regained some perspective on the present difficulties and my cup of hope is filled, even overflowing. Teach me, Lord, to share this with others. Help me to find words and actions that demonstrate this lesson.

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Job Finishes His Lament

Job 28-31 and Psalm 74

Psalm 74 begins by begging the question: why have you rejected us God? Hey, God, don’t forget us here! The first half lays out the plea for mercy, then verse 12 pivots:

But God is my King from long ago;
he brings salvation on the earth.
Psalm 74:14

The rest of the psalm gives God the glory and reaches out to him to answer those of us who call on his name.

Likewise, we are at a pivot point in Job. Here we read Job’s last arguments before the quiet Elihu appears followed by God himself!

Chapter 28 is titled, Interlude: Where Wisdom Is Found, in the NIV Study Bible. The imagery is wonderful as Job compares the search for silver or gold deep in the darkest places where no foot has trod,

People assault the flinty rock with their hands
and lay bare the roots of the mountains.
They tunnel through the rock;
their eyes see all its treasures.
They search the sources of the rivers
and bring hidden things to light.
Job 28:9-11

We humans know where to look in the darkest places for the treasures we seek, but where do we go to look for wisdom? This is just too good not to re-read:

But where can wisdom be found?
Where does understanding dwell?
No mortal comprehends its worth;
it cannot be found in the land of the living.
The deep says, “It is not in me”;
the sea says, “It is not with me.”
Job 28:12-14

There is only one true source of wisdom:

God understands the way to it
and he alone knows where it dwells,
for he views the ends of the earth
and sees everything under the heavens.
Job 28:23-24

Job knows God is the creator of all, the one from whom wisdom begins and he truly fears the Lord.

In chapter 29, Job recalls the days of old when God was with him, when his children surrounded him; back in the good ‘ol days when people listened to what he had to say. Chapter 30 paints the opposing picture where he is mocked, where he has become the laughingstock of all, one to be avoided.

I cry out to you, God, but you do not answer;
I stand up, but you merely look at me.
You turn on me ruthlessly;
with the might of your hand you attack me.
Job 30:20-21

The pain that Job feels is real, the sense that his words are empty and unheard by God strike close to home. But I don’t think it’s fair to suggest that God has turn his hand on Job, though this is difficult to understand.

Chapter 31 provides a careful study of how Job has followed God’s ways carefully, or at least how he has tried to live an honorable life. He calls on God to show him the err of his ways while maintaining his innocence in all these sins.

I would be hard-pressed to pass all the tests that Job presents: he taught his eye not to lust, his lips not to lie, acted justly in business deals, properly treated the poor, the fatherless, the widow; he didn’t put his trust in wealth nor mock his enemy–basically, he’s done no wrong that he is aware of! Wow! I would fail on many accounts, but not Job, he cannot see why all of this has happened to him.

His case fully stated, Job signs his name: “the words of Job are ended” (Job 31:40).

If the book of Job were to end here, we would all be lost. His friends have not been much help and God still seems so distant. Lord, we try to do that which is right, knowing that our sinful nature deceives us. Find us, Lord, when we wander aimlessly, when our steps are unsure and our path is covered in fog. Here we are Lord, find us and show us the way out of despair and darkness. We completely trust in you Lord.

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Bildad’s Last Thought, Job’s Final Words to His Friends

Job 25-28

In 5 short verses, Bildad concludes his arguments with a simple assertion that mere humans are only worms compared to God. This, of course, includes himself and his friends. In essence, we are all nothing.

Job replies with thick sarcasm:

How you have helped the powerless!
How you have saved the arm that is feeble!
What advice you have offered to one without wisdom!
And what great insight you have displayed!
Who has helped you utter these words?
And whose spirit spoke from your mouth?
Job 26:2-4

Job’s Final Words to his Friends

I will never admit you are in the right;
till I die, I will not deny my integrity.
I will maintain my innocence and never let go of it;
my conscience will not reproach me as long as I live.
Job 27:5-6

Job confesses nothing–he is innocent. After all the talk, all the tough love, Job is unmoved and unable to repent from sin he did not commit.

In verses 13-23, Job describes the fate of the wicked, how God will severely remove them.

He lies down wealthy, but will do so no more;
when he opens his eyes, all is gone.
Job 27:19

Job is finished arguing with these three friends. Tomorrow we’ll read Job’s lament as we round the last corner of the story of Job.

His friends showed up, but provided little help. Perhaps, at best, they distracted Job from his misery, his sores and physical pain. What they did accomplish for our sake is to display rather dramatically how not to reach out to friends in trouble. The challenge, of course, is often our friends can’t see their mistakes and a pound of tough-love is indeed in order. It seems the Bible is full of moments when this is the right course of action (e.g., Nathan confronting David, etc.). Perhaps God gives us these words of wisdom to help us weigh our thoughts when reaching out to those in need.

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Last Speech from Eliphaz, Job Replies

Job 22-24 and Psalm 73

The last speech from Eliphaz covers lots of ground. He begins by arguing against the presumed piety of Job compared to the Creator of all:

Can a man be of benefit to God?
Can even a wise person benefit him?
What pleasure would it give the Almighty if you were righteous?
What would he gain if your ways were blameless?
Job 22:2-3

This is an interesting start to his argument, almost like Eliphaz was reading Ecclesiastes and begs the “why exist” question. But Eliphaz isn’t here for philosophy 101. He immediately shifts into high gear and begins confront Job for obvious transgressions, “Is not your wickedness great?” (Job 22:5). That’s just the beginning of this tirade as he effectively jumps to Matthew 25 and accuses Job of denying the people of clothing, water and food, of sending the widow away empty-handed. Even in his day, such actions would be offensive.

In verses 12-20, Eliphaz accuses Job of suggesting that God doesn’t see what is going on, “Yet you say, ‘What does God know?'” (Job 22:13).

The final words of Eliphaz in verses 21 to 30 provide a sure path for recovery for those who have gone astray. “Submit to God…” and he will restore you, everything will be made new. Eliphaz actually ends on a high note, but the middle of his speech burns Job’s ears as he criticizes deeply and joins his friends Bildad and Zophar in accusing Job of unrepentant sin.

Job Responds

In Chapter 23, Job explains that if he could simply find God, he could make his case and be exonerated, but God is nowhere to be found. “If only I knew where to find him; if only I could go to his dwelling!” (Job 23:3). Searching east, west, north or south, God cannot be found; Job’s ability to defend himself is untried. A bit of self-pity wells up inside him. Poor Job.

Job recognizes that God is the Creator, the one who can and will judge.

But he stands alone, and who can oppose him?
He does whatever he pleases.
He carries out his decree against me,
and many such plans he still has in store.
That is why I am terrified before him;
when I think of all this, I fear him.
God has made my heart faint;
the Almighty has terrified me.
Job 23:13-16

Chapter 24 turns to Eliphaz’s accusations about helping those less fortunate by first asking a question of God: why not set a day and time for judgment? Let us know when to show up and state our case. Why does God allow all of the thief and the murderer to continue their dark ways?

One day, however, God will deal with those who are mighty in power:

He may let them rest in a feeling of security,
but his eyes are on their ways.
For a little while they are exalted, and then they are gone;
they are brought low and gathered up like all others;
they are cut off like heads of grain.
“If this is not so, who can prove me false
and reduce my words to nothing?”
Job 24:23-25

Relentlessly, Job continues to support his innocence while giving God the glory, even when he’s completely frustrated and confused. God doesn’t have to explain himself to us, though it is difficult to understand why evil appears to flourish, we do not have any authority in the court of God.

The drama continues. Job’s friends are still present, though it’s a stretch to suggest that they are being helpful–at least they’re still there!

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Zophar – Round 2 and Job’s Reply

Job 20-21

Zophar picks up his line of reasoning by expressing his personal disdain for Job’s words:

“My troubled thoughts prompt me to answer
because I am greatly disturbed.
I hear a rebuke that dishonors me,
and my understanding inspires me to reply.”
Job 20:2-3

How could someone like Job possibly rebuke Zophar? Zophar is doing fine, checking his lists, living in self-righteousness. He left his home to comfort a friend who has “obviously” committed some grievous sin as evidenced by the disaster that has fallen upon him. From his perspective, Job is not the victim of some injustice, rather he is the victim of his own misgivings and therefore unqualified to offer suggested remedies, much less rebuke those who have taken time from their busy lives to help poor old Job. “I hear a rebuke that dishonors me…” comes from this pious position.

“…my understanding inspires me to reply.” Zophar is so secure in himself that he has the ability to impart his special wisdom on Job. Here is Zophar’s incredible insight:

  • godless people don’t last long
  • these people will perish like dung
  • like a dream, they flitter away
  • he will swallow the evil that is so sweet in his mouth
  • snakes in his stomach will destroy him
  • God will inflict his punishment

In other words, my friend Job, all of this you are seeing is your own doing–you brought this on yourself.

When we sit with those who have far less material resources than we do, is it possible that these thoughts run through our minds? How did you get here? What mistakes did you make to land in your sibling’s house with two other families? “Obviously” you’ve made mistakes or you wouldn’t be here. Let me console you with my wisdom, then drive away in my car to my well-deserved house.

I’m not proposing a poverty or prosperity theology, only suggesting that we must guard against this line of reasoning. Perhaps we should teach something like a Zophar Test before heading into the mission field. Or perhaps on a more positive scale, a Mother Theresa test to be sure our hearts are in the right place.

Side note: Isn’t it interesting that we tend to focus on those who are outwardly struggling, those who have little income and few resources to overcome that which has set them back. The guy that just drove by me in a shiny new Porsche is probably farther from God than the man who sits on the porch on disability, unable to hold a job to support his family.

Zophar’s conclusion:

“Such is the fate God allots the wicked,
the heritage appointed for them by God.”
Job 20:29

Here we are in the center of Job, lost in the world’s definition of success, of cause and effect logic, as we witness how easy and absurd it is to slip down the path of self-righteous indignation. So much to learn from these extreme characters, but we’re not done yet!

Job Replies

Job counters Zophar’s line of reasoning with his own observations about the wicked:

  • Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power?
  • Their homes are safe even though they are far from God
  • Bulls breed, cows calve — no problems there!
  • They have lots of happy children dancing about
  • The live and die in prosperity

Explain that Zophar! You’ve seen it. You’ve seen those who are far from God live in apparent prosperity while never darkening the steps of a church or even considering their sinful, self-indulgent behavior. How does that work, O most wise Zophar?

Job keeps pointing to God while his friends keep pointing to themselves. Interesting. “Can anyone teach knowledge to God, since he judges even the highest?” (Job 21:22). All are equal in God’s eyes, rich or poor, strong or weak, able or crippled. Job keeps prompting his friends to take a broader view of life.

Even in his personal pain and agony, Job offers this insight as he ends this round:

“So how can you console me with your nonsense?
Nothing is left of your answers but falsehood!”
Job 21:34

If I learn nothing else from this round, I hope that I learn to withhold judgment based on circumstantial evidence. God can certainly see beyond the temporal issues of today and see deep into the soul. I know I can’t look that deeply, but I can look beyond the surface if I would simply stop and pray for wisdom.

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