May 6, 2023 - Job 25-31

Bildad pipes back in and argues that no man is right before God. Well, in an ultimate sense, he is correct. But what he seems to be saying is that no man, particularly Job, can be considered obedient and pleasing to God. I guess the silver lining in the cloud of Bildad’s argument is that, this time, he confines himself to few words (only 6 verses).

Job understands who God is and what man is. He doesn’t need Bildad to instruct him on these matters. Furthermore, Job puts forward his uprightness: “I hold fast my righteousness and will not let it go” (27:6). The question all this suggests: Recognizing our natural sinfulness, and recognizing that we always fall short of God’s standard, can it be said, in any way, that one can live an obedient life and one that is pleasing to God? Job answers this question, “Yes! I have done so.”

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 has not trusted in riches, though he has been a help to the poor and needy, and though he has acknowledged his sins. And, now, Job is finished with his defense. In the meantime, if he is to be kept he must be kept by God.

Keep Thou my steps, O Lord,

Lest I should stray,

Forgetful of Thy Word,

And lose my way.

Keep Thou, O Lord, and guard me every hour

Till I am safe beyond the tempter’s pow’r. –Fanny Crosby (1908)