Lord Over Evil

Only now does the Lord begin to weave together the loose strands in this book. Of the absolute highest significance is the fact that God controls “Leviathan” (v. 1). Although English translations differ, the word symbolically refers to a great demon/god/power.[1] This being cannot be controlled by humans; it is too powerful to be subdued by the human race.

Leviathan is an evil spiritual being of tremendous strength. Readers of Job know that Job is suffering from the attack of Satan, the great evil prince of darkness. Satan is clearly far more powerful than Job. Poverty, tragedy, sickness, and death have followed in Satan’s wake. No human power or plan can stop him.

But Leviathan is not the ultimate power in the universe. As great as he is—and as much as he is beyond all human abilities—he is not greater than the Creator. The epitome of evil strength is nothing when compared to almighty God.

From the very beginning, God is the one who set the boundaries for Satan. Only the Lord ultimately decided what Satan could do to Job. Leviathan cannot be tamed by human hands, but he submits to the hand of God. He is above every power on earth, but he is beneath the power of heaven.

Job has been reminded that he does not comprehend the visible world. But there is an invisible world, too. Job does not understand the creation he sees. But there is a world that is unseen, unknown to humans, but known by God. Job does not know—as the reader knows—about Satan’s activity in his life. The invisible and visible worlds connect in a way that is impossible for humans to comprehend. But even Leviathan and all evil is under the rule of God. His ways are higher.

[1] See Robert Fyall, Now my Eyes have Seen You: Images of Creation and Evil in the Book of Job (Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2002).

Respond in Prayer

Lord, you know everything in both the visible and invisible realms. You fully understand all things, both physical and spiritual. Our perspective is so limited and finite. But we rejoice in your perfect knowledge, power, and rule. We praise you that even Satan himself is no match for you. Amen.

Steve West

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).