Job 23:1-17
Q.1. What was Job’s state of mind? What did he long for? How would God treat Him? – (Job 23:1-7)
Job realized that anything he said would be seen as rebellion and would be held in evidence against him. He imagined sitting down with God and discussing his trials. Then – I would learn the words which He would answer and perceive what He would say to me (Job 23:5). He was convinced that God would not overpower him, but would treat him with compassion – Would He contend with me by the greatness of His power? No, surely, He would pay attention to me (Job 23:6).
Q.2. What was Job’s consolation in his suffering? What gave him confidence in the midst of his trials? How did he compare himself with God? (Job 23:8-17)
Though God had not appeared or explained Himself, nevertheless – He knows the way I take; When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold (Job 23:10). Job accepted that God had a good purpose in mind, although it was hidden from him. What made his pain more bearable, was that he had not retaliated against God, but rather – 11 My foot has held fast to His path; I have kept His way and not turned aside. 12 I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food (Job 23:11-12). He acknowledged God’s absolute sovereignty, and accepted that He had allowed his calamities – 13 He is unique and who can turn Him? And what His soul desires, that He does. 14 For He performs what is appointed for me … (Job 23:13-14). Job realized that if he faced God (as he had asked), that he would be silenced and dismayed in His presence (Job 23:15-16). I doubt that we will dare or need to ask him all our questions, when we see Him in His blazing glory.