Job acknowledged the holiness and righteousness of God. His lack of knowledge made him no match for a legal argument. Job became increasingly aware that the suffering was permitted within the government of God. He knew that those whom he loved had failed him. But he also knew that God who would never forsake Him. His faith would not falter. His future was safe. “I know that my redeemer lives… and I shall see God” (19:25)

Although his friends categorically judged him guilty before God, Job does not fear. He will stand before God after death “as gold” (23:10). Job not only maintains his integrity before God but also maintains the indescribable greatness and glory of his God.

Consequently, Job’s friends cease to criticize or critique him. Another man, not listed as a friend, shares his advice. He has listened to all the arguments. Now, he will share his discourse that through affliction God must purge Job of any or all reliance upon his own righteousness. “God is greater than man” (33:12; 34:12; 35:1-2; 36:5, 26; 37:5, 14, 22). He acquits Job from the accusations of the friends, yet condemns him for his self-confidence. Could this not be the chastening hand of the Creator, who clearly cared for His child?

The friends failed to help. Another acquaintance shares some soothing sagacity, yet it is scarcely enough. Finally, God need not be silent any more. He speaks and the sound of His voice echoes in the very depths of Job’s soul.

The majesty of God had become clouded. An overwhelming whirlwind must disperse the overcast. The right perspective must be perceived by Job and his friends. Job’s appeal would be answered! Job must view himself from God’s vantage point. Job must admit that to approach the Almighty was allowed only by His amazing grace. God reminded Job that everything that happened to him was permitted within His governing hand. He had not forgotten him.

Job acknowledges his reliance must always rest upon the Redeemer. God’s knowledge of His servant was vindicated! Patiently, Job endured the attacks of the Accuser. Instead of abandoning his fervent faith in God, he constantly appealed to his Creator and Comforter. Victory was attained! Not only does the Avenger (Redeemer) assist in this present life but also in the life to come. The Sovereign God truly is always in control!

The final section of the book records the confirmation of God concerning His servant, Job. (This section returns to poetical script in the Hebrew.) Accusations could no longer be hurled by Satan. The friends also must admit that their admonitions to Job were quite askew. Acceptance before God can only be accomplished by relying totally on His grace and goodness.

Pictured within the sacrifice of the burnt offering was the Advocate of God. He would affirm the actions of God as sovereign in all matters. Job’s Redeemer is the Messiah. Only He can present the case of Job (and mankind) before God. Only He can make a man “justified before God” (4:17; 9:2; 15:14; 25:4; 32:1-2).

And the Messiah has already come! He is the Lord Jesus Christ! Accepting His atoning sacrifice which was accomplished on the cross and relying on His redeeming work is our only appeal before a righteous and holy God. The Sovereign God has declared that salvation from sin and deliverance from eternal suffering after death is found only in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. May we learn from the patience of Job and “run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:1-2).


Rob Zapotoski,
SMS interim Director