May 15, 2026 - Job 20-24

Now, Zophar speaks and tells Job that the wicked will suffer judgment, seemingly implying that Job is wicked and getting what he deserves:  “The exulting of the wicked is short . . . he will perish forever like his own dung” (20:5-7).  Job responds that, actually, the wicked seem to prosper:  “Their offspring are established in their presence, and their descendants before their eyes.  Their houses are safe from fear, and no rod of God is upon them” (21:8-9).  Eliphaz speaks and is much more blunt in his accusation:  “Is not your evil abundant?  There is no end to your iniquities” (22:5).  Job answers, “Today also my complaint is bitter; my hand is heavy on account of my groaning.  Oh, that I knew where I might find him, that I might come even to his seat!  I would lay my case before him and fill my mouth with arguments” (23:2-4).  Job’s friends turn out to be worthless in their counsel.  Job understands, though, that if he is to get a faithful and righteous answer to his questions, he will find that answer with God and not with man.

O that I knew the secret place

Where I might find my God!

I'd spread my wants before His face,

And pour my woes abroad.

I’d tell Him how my sins arise,

What sorrows I sustain,

How grace decays, and comfort dies,

And leaves my heart in pain.

My God will pity my complaints,

And heal my broken bones;

He takes the meaning of His saints,

The language of their groans.   –Isaac Watts (1792)