Read: Job 20:1-22:30; 2 Corinthians 1:1-11; Psalm 40:11-17; Proverbs 22:2-4
Zophar must have been offended that Job referred to him as stupid so he spoke up to defend his honor. He started out by explaining how the wicked will not prosper in death and everything they accumulated will be for naught. This man will have to give back everything he worked so hard for. Since he oppressed the poor, the tables will be turned on him. He will reap what he sowed.
Job’s friends are determined to argue that Job is responsible for what has happened to him. Job argues that he sees many wicked people on the earth who are prospering and seemingly happy. They are not getting what they deserve even though they have no respect or fear of God. Man’s fate is in the hands of the Lord. He exalts some and punishes others. God decides when judgment comes to every man but it will come either in this life or after.
Eliphaz spoke up and argued that God would not find pleasure in punishing a righteous person…if Job was righteous. God was punishing him because of his endless sins which he named. He oppressed the poor, refused to share his food with the needy, sent widows away empty-handed and abused the orphan. Eliphaz accused Job of thinking God can’t see him through the clouds.
His advise was to submit to God, repent and return to the Lord and he would restore him. Then when he prayed, God would hear him. (Their gospel was “cause and effect.”)
In Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians he began by praising God who comforts us in our troubles so we can comfort others. Paul tells of the hardship that they faced in Asia which almost cost them their lives. Through it all they found that God was there for them and gave them much hope. He thanked them for their prayers and support.
Paul had fallen out of favor with the Corinthian church when they were having so many problems, but they had read his last letter and used it to right many of their wrongs. They were now grateful for Paul’s leadership and discipline. This was a great encouragement to Paul.
Lord, thank you for our trials that cause us to draw near to you and seek our comfort in you alone.
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