The Lord Answers

Job has suffered without knowing that Satan has been afflicting him. His friends have accused him of being wicked and have told him repeatedly that he is only receiving the punishment he deserves. In fact, they are more than happy to point out to him that he is actually suffering far less than he deserves.

Neither they nor Job know that Job is actually suffering because he is righteous. God pointed Job out to Satan as an example of integrity and selfless worship at the very beginning of the book. Although his friends operate with an easy theology where suffering experienced corresponds to sins committed, Job knows he is innocent. What Job does not know - but the reader does - is that in his case, his suffering is not in proportion to his sin, but in proportion to his righteousness.

Knowing that his friends are wrong in their assessment of his character, Job has wanted a day in court with God. Job knows that things are not adding up, and he believes there has been a miscarriage of justice. But then God speaks.

It is significant that God speaks out of a storm. Storm imagery is common in the Bible when God appears. It is a picture of power, strength, and glory. God appeared in a storm on Sinai when he gave the law to Moses. The throne room of God in heaven has clouds, lightning, and thunder (Revelation 4).

Job is not going to question God; God is going to question him. The storm imagery speaks of transcendent power, but here is God speaking directly to his servant. God has not abandoned him; he is not aloof; he is not distant. Although the point of these questions emerges later, God’s presence is immediately apparent. Job’s God answers him.

Respond in Prayer

Lord, who speaks from the storm, help me to realize how great you are. But allow me also to see how close you are. When I do not understand your ways, teach me to be silent and to trust. Help me remember you are always there. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Steve West

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