April 24, 2022 - Job 28-37

The earth gives up gold and silver, and it produces crops, but where can wisdom be found? Where can Job find answers to his questions? Once respected and blessed so richly, now everyone laughs at Job (30:1). Terror and affliction are now his lot. And all this, though Job testifies that he has not trusted in riches, has been a help to the poor and needy, and has acknowledged his sins. And, now, Job is finished speaking.

But there's one more – Elihu – who will speak, a young man full of what he supposes is wisdom and knowledge. But he, like the other three friends, is far off base. He doesn’t know what he’s talking about, though he is convinced of his own wisdom. He even boasts: “Bear with me a little, and I will show you, for I have yet something to say on God’s behalf” (36:2). Really? Might come as a surprise to God! But God is about to speak, and wow, how he is about to speak!

God moves in a mysterious way

His wonders to perform.

He plants his footsteps in the sea

And rides upon the storm.

You fearful saints, fresh courage take;

The clouds you so much dread

Are big with mercy and shall break

In blessings on your head. -- William Cowper (1774)