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CONSIDER GOD’S GREATNESS
FRIDAY, JUNE 17
Job 37

Psalm 148:1-6

 

Until a man is nothing,
God can make nothing of him.

(M Luther)

 

CONSIDER GOD’S GREATNESS
 
Elihu stood in fear and trembling as he considered the power of God as displayed in nature. The thunder, snow and rain all speak to men of the existence of the righteous, holy, almighty God (Job 37:1-13; Acts 14:17; Rom 1:19-20).
 
Elihu challenged Job to consider God’s greatness as displayed in His work of creation. Since man cannot understand God’s workings in nature or the universe, how could he expect to understand His workings with regard to man's suffering? We have seen the greatness of God in His creative work and we do not question Him on that point. Therefore, what right do we have to question Him on any other matter (Job 37:14-20)? We cannot understand God’s thoughts, power or manner of operation – He is too great for the human mind to comprehend (Rom 11:33). Yet, God is just and will deal with man according to His mercy. And if man will meet Him by faith, he can find forgiveness (Heb 11:6). Thus, we must worship Him in obedience (Job 37:23-24; Ps 134).
 
With these verses, Elihu’s speeches ended. Unlike the three friends of Job, Elihu did not insist that Job’s suffering came because of secret sin. Elihu claimed Job’s suffering was extended by his lack of humility. Job had sinned in not accepting his suffering and accusing God of being overly harsh. He challenged Job to repent and accept God’s effort to teach him. If he would do this, there would be restoration and blessing from the Lord. Elihu did not deal with the reason for Job’s suffering, but he assured Job that God is always just and works all things for good for His people (Heb 12:11).
 
In pointing out to Job his sin, Elihu was leading him to repentance. We suspect, by Job’s lack of response to Elihu, that he had seen his error and was prepared to hear the voice of God.
 
THOUGHT: What was Elihu’s major challenge to Job?
PRAYER: Father, help me to submit to Thy will because Thy way is the best way.

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