Bible Study Week: Mysteries of God (Job Moments 3)

Greetings to all our global readers.

Over the past two weeks, we have been delving into the book of Job. In the last article, we explored the theme of God's love for His creation, as described in Job chapter 11. This Bible study session served as a reminder that even in the midst of adversity, God's love for His creation remains unwavering, and He ultimately brings about justice.

In Job Chapter 11, we are introduced to Job's friend, Zophar the Naamathite. Similar to Job's other friends, Eliphaz and Bildad, Zophar criticizes Job, labeling him as an "idle talker" and a "mocker" in verse 3. They struggle to comprehend why Job, who claims innocence, is experiencing such a series of misfortunes. Ironically, Zophar goes on to describe the incomprehensible nature and vastness of God, emphasizing that His mysteries surpass human understanding. In doing so, Zophar fails to realize that he too is limited in comprehending these divine mysteries. In his misguided attempt, he accuses Job of mocking God and falsely asserting his innocence. This only serves to further belittle Job in the eyes of his friends.

Zophar emphatically states in verse 11 that God perceives all deceit and takes note of evil. This assertion holds true, as Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that righteousness and justice form the bedrock of God's throne (Psalm 89:14). However, did Job truly transgress against God? A half-truth mixed with falsehood remains a distortion of reality. In verses 14-15, Zophar contends that by putting away sin and ensuring righteousness within, one can boldly stand before God without fear. Again, this holds true, as Psalm 24 echoes the sentiment, specifying that those with clean hands and pure hearts are blessed and vindicated by God, their Savior.

As we progress in Job's narrative, we will witness God's eventual vindication, aligning with the principles outlined in Psalm 24. Zophar and Job's other friends prematurely passed judgment, lacking insight into God's mysterious ways. Job himself grappled with understanding the cause of his afflictions; it remained a divine enigma. This serves as a powerful lesson - often, we rush to judge others and their situations without a comprehensive grasp of the full narrative. I recall a personal instance where I erroneously attributed neglectful behavior to a friend, unaware of the depth of her circumstances. It was a humbling experience to later discover the truth, and I regretted the strain it put on our friendship. Job's story imparts not only insights into God's character but also wisdom in managing our friendships. How quick are we to place blame, condemn, or dismiss our friends? How readily do we shift our stance in times of trouble? It's worth noting that Job's friends were the same individuals who sat with him in silence for seven days and nights in Chapter 2.

We, as humans, possess limited understanding, which can lead to erroneous judgments. However, true wisdom, power, counsel, and understanding are vested in Almighty God (Job 12:13). From Job 12:12 to 15, Job eloquently portrays the might and authority of God. The Almighty can dethrone rulers, expose the folly of judges, topple officials, silence the lips of trusted advisors, disarm the powerful, elevate or diminish nations. In affirming this, Job reinforces the depiction of God's character presented in Job 9:19, where he declares, "If it is a matter of strength, God is mighty. And if it is a matter of justice, who can challenge Him?" Indeed, God embodies wisdom, power, counsel, and understanding in all His ways.