Read Job 19:1-29
Job has such patience. He is putting up with his very annoying friends, and he is waiting on a very silent God. I’m not sure I could have endured all of this. It’s Job’s turn to speak again. He doesn’t walk away from the attacks but tries to counter once again.
Job feels abandoned. In this speech he calls out relatives, his wife, his friends, his close friends, servants, and young children. He is sitting among three of those “friends,” and from what we’ve seen so far, they have indeed turned against him. Interesting that the three we’ve seen attacking Job are not considered his “close” friends. The sacrifice of time they have made to spend time with Joel is commendable at least. It’s hard to believe Job’s closest friends have long since forgotten him. That is, according to Job’s account of their whereabouts.
I don’t think I’ve ever felt that alone, cut off from everyone. Being an expat can be a bit lonely when you start missing your loved ones separated by miles and miles, and sometimes oceans. But they are there, not gone forever. Job’s loneliness is only part of the problem.
Job’s heart has broken into a million pieces. He calls his predicament a “humiliation.” For someone of Job’s stature and place in society to end up like he is would be quite humbling. The Bible has positive things to say about being humble, but that’s when you’re avoiding the human tendency toward pride. Job’s humility was feeling like you have a pie smashed in your face, the utmost embarrassment.
Job’s patience is also being tested in the lack of attention he is getting. That has to be a big adjustment for someone who is used to being in control with happiness all around. Even the servants aren’t answering him. Most of us can’t identify with having servants, but falling out of communication with people important to our community is to be avoided. When I reach out to someone, I look forward to and expect their response. Job wasn’t getting that.
Job sums up a lot of what he must struggle with in this line. “Have mercy on me, my friends, have mercy, for the hand of God has struck me.” His friends have certainly “chewed” Job up. Mercy is exactly what’s called for. Mercy from God, too, would be nice.
Job shares a true glimmer of hope in this speech, too, near the end. He said, “But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last.” Amen, Job, amen! I know that, too! We all should know that and trust that with no doubt. Job was trusting it. Job shows us what that looks like. Thank you, Job.
Let’s pray. Lord, there is so much violence and corruption in our world. I feel like it is a raging fire out of control. Thankfully, I’m not stuck in the hottest places, but pray for people who are stuck, getting close to the fire without knowing they have a Savior. Job knew. I know. Thank you for what you have done for me. I give you all honor and praise. Protect me from the fire and the lies of the world. You have made me strong, and together we can stand against the storm. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
