Text: Job 21:1-34
The Friends have been saying the wicked do not last long, God punishes them quickly. But Job’s speech is about how God treats the wicked differently than his friends think. God does not punish immediately. Job sees godless persons often leading long, prosperous, healthy lives. The wicked say to God, “We do not need you” (v.14). Even in death their tombs are given special care. Job is troubled about God’s ways – they are mysterious and difficult to understand.
However, the friends think they know exactly what God is doing, and their
arrogance is offensive to Job, and to God!
But God does delay in His punishments of the wicked. Modern people say,
“We have science, industry, hospitals, etc. We don’t need God.” But they still
thrive. As God says to Prophet Ezekiel, “Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked … rather that he should turn from his way and live?” The Lord Jesus Christ says about a wicked woman in His church, “I gave her time to repent …” (Rev.2:21, ESV). The Lord desires repentance. Human wisdom teaches that a wicked person is to be punished quickly, and that is a good policy. But, God deals with the wicked differently. He is patient with them. We all should be very grateful that He was/is patient with us!
Meditate on verse 14. What is God teaching you in this verse?
Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I pray for my family members
that they will desire Your knowledge and draw near to You. Amen.