Job 8:3 “Does God pervert justice? Does the Almighty pervert what is right?”
Thus begins the speech, dare I say accusations, if Bildad. To paraphrase, “God is just. He rewards the good and punishes the wicked.” “Clearly you brought this on yourself” is definitely implied. It was common philosophy of the time, but utter rubbish, especially in light of the first chapter of Job, where God praises Job for his faithfulness and allows ha satan (the accuser) to test him.
Job 8:20 “Surely God does not reject one who is blameless or strengthen the hands of evildoers.”
God doesn’t reward the good and punish the wicked. It might seem fair and just if life worked that way, but life is more complex. Humans are more nuanced. Perhaps this is the root of much of my struggle with the book of Job. God seems unfair. His actions seem unjust. But as I am reading Job this time, I just keep thinking that there is simply so much that I just don’t know, that I can’t understand. God is sovereign, and I am not. God is loving, to a degree that it is impossible for me to understand. I can trust Him.
Job 8:21 “He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.”
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the hope in verse 21. No matter the trials we face, no matter the cause, You are greater, more loving, more merciful. You will yet fill my mouth with laughter and my lips with shouts of joy. Help me to hold on to that hope, no matter what I face. Draw me closer. Amen.
Job 8:22 “Your enemies will be clothed in shame, and the tents of the wicked will be no more.”
Have a blessed day.