Suggested Bible Reading: Job 36-37
Devotional Thought:
In the final part of Elihu’s speech against Job, he must have felt his audience was getting rather restless with his nonsense, because he pleads with them to patiently hear him out. “Suffer me a little, and I will show thee that I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.” (vs. 2) Elihu does a good job of elevating God’s authority, wisdom, and mercy. Elihu makes the case to Job that God sees everything that is going on, and therefore, he must humble himself in sincere repentance so that God will show him mercy. The problem with the speech is not the principles being taught, but rather the premise from which it is being presented. Of course we have more information than Elihu had; however, he had no right to jump to conclusions that were not his call to make. Too many Christians today strive to make comment, share opinion, and conclude judgment on partial or misrepresented information. Elihu states that he is speaking on behalf of God, yet his conclusions and applications are very different from God’s testimony of Job in chapter one. We must all be very careful that we do not use the Bible or God’s name as a manipulation tool or a credibility builder unless we are absolutely sure we are representing God and His character properly and accurately. Elihu makes the case for the greatness of God as we can see it on display in creation. We certainly agree that creation shows the greatness of God’s omniscience, omnipotence, omnipresence, immutability, sovereignty, eternality, and majesty. Creation also shows God’s interest and involvement in the affairs of animals, plants, and people. Creation ought to bring comfort, challenge, and conviction to each of us as we think of our responsibility to such an awesome God.
Prayer Requests:
• Lord, please help me never forget how big you are and how small I am.
• Lord, please help me to find comfort in the greatness and control of my great God. I realize that greatness creates a tremendous responsibility on my part.
• Lord, please help me to enjoy the power you demonstrate, the peace you deliver, and the passion you develop.