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ZOPHAR’S SECOND SPEECH
FRIDAY, MAY 13
Job 20:1-16

Psalm 93

 

“Thy testimonies are very sure…”

 

ZOPHAR’S SECOND SPEECH
 
Zophar had heard Job’s plea that they stop accusing him of hidden sin, but he saw Job’s statements as faulty and would not allow them to go unanswered. He was not impressed with talk of a Redeemer or life hereafter. Zophar wanted Job to listen to him concerning his beliefs about life (Job 20:1-3).
 
Zophar asked Job if he had not learned about suffering from past experience and ancient wisdom. If the wicked have any moments of joy, they are short. The wicked may become powerful but their judgment will come quickly (Job 20:4-6; Obad 3-4).
 
Zophar reminded Job of the shortness of man’s life and the sure punishment of the wicked. Man will perish like fuel burned in fire, passing quickly away even as a vision or a dream fades. He will vanish from the sight of his friends and his place will be left vacant. All that Zophar said about man is true. The Psalmist reminds us that the wicked prosper but for a moment, then face certain judgment (Job 20:7-9; Ps 37:1-2).
 
Truly wicked men often oppress the poor. Wealth gained in an evil manner is like food that tastes sweet when swallowed, then turns sour in the stomach. Evil man finds that wealth does not satisfy. He will soon be forced, as it were, to spit out the riches he has swallowed. God will make him realise the futility of his life (Job 20:10-16).
 
Job had no argument with the things that Zophar said and, surely, the Scriptures teach about the worthlessness of a life lived in rebellion against God. However, Job claimed that while he suffered like a sinner, he did not have any unconfessed sin. How frustrating it is to know the truth and not be able to prove it to one’s critics! When this happens to us, as it did to Job, we can only rest in the fact that God’s truth is eternal and He will vindicate His people in the final day. May we continue on faithfully with Him even though the world does not approve of what we teach and how we live.
 
THOUGHT: One with God is the majority.

PRAYER: May I always stand firm in Thee, Father.

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