Job 11-14

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Shall a Multitude of Words Go Unanswered?

Zophar was certain that the severity of Job’s trials proved he was concealing secret sin, and that his trials would probably be even greater but for the mercy of God. Zophar said that God knows false men, and He sees iniquity without investigating. Zophar said to Job, “But would that God might speak, and open His lips against you” (Job 11:5). It was becoming clear to Job that his friends already made up their minds that Job was guilty. All attempts to convince them of his innocence were perceived by the friends as empty words and hot air. If only God would come to Job's defense. But where was He? Why was He hiding His face from Job? Was God now His enemy? (Job 13:24) Job did have an enemy, but it wasn’t God. And it wasn’t his friends who were now falsely accusing him. The enemy was Satan who had wreaked havoc on his life and turned his friends against him. The enemy was Satan whose whole objective was to manipulate Job to curse God. Yet, in spite of Satan's efforts, Job still clung on to his hope in God (Job 13:16). Dear Father, may we never be so brash as to speak for You in condemning another person – or even in condemning ourselves. May we never lose hope in You and Your hand in our lives if ever accused falsely. May we understand who our real enemy is, and that we are fighting spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:12).  And may we remain steadfast under trial – for when we have stood the test, we will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him (James 1:12).