Have you ever encountered individuals who appear to thrive in their wicked ways, seemingly experiencing prolonged success?
It can be perplexing and disheartening to witness.
In Job 20, we explore the insights shared by Job’s friends as they grapple with the notion that the wicked can prosper for an extended period, leading us to consider the ultimate judgment that awaits them in the presence of God.
Reconnect: In the Book of Job, we find ourselves amidst a series of intense dialogues between Job and his friends. Job has been enduring unimaginable suffering, and his friends, including Zophar, have been attempting to explain the reasons behind his trials. Job’s friends continue to hold to the belief that Job’s suffering is a consequence of his sin, leading to their ongoing discussions and debates.
(Summarized and continued after scripture)
Zophar Says, “The Triumph of the Wicked Is Short”
1Then Zophar the Naamathite answered,
2“Therefore my disquieting thoughts make me respond,
Even because of my inward agitation.
3“I listened to the reproof which insults me,
And the spirit of my understanding makes me answer.
4“Do you know this from of old,
From the establishment of man on earth,
5That the triumphing of the wicked is short,
And the joy of the godless momentary?
6“Though his loftiness reaches the heavens,
And his head touches the clouds,
7He perishes forever like his refuse;
Those who have seen him will say, ‘Where is he?’
8“He flies away like a dream, and they cannot find him;
Even like a vision of the night he is chased away.
9“The eye which saw him sees him no longer,
And his place no longer beholds him.
10“His sons favor the poor,
And his hands give back his wealth.
11“His bones are full of his youthful vigor,
But it lies down with him in the dust.
12“Though evil is sweet in his mouth
And he hides it under his tongue,
13Though he desires it and will not let it go,
But holds it in his mouth,
14Yet his food in his stomach is changed
To the venom of cobras within him.
15“He swallows riches,
But will vomit them up;
God will expel them from his belly.
16“He sucks the poison of cobras;
The viper’s tongue slays him.
17“He does not look at the streams,
The rivers flowing with honey and curds.
18“He returns what he has attained
And cannot swallow it;
As to the riches of his trading,
He cannot even enjoy them.
19“For he has oppressed and forsaken the poor;
He has seized a house which he has not built.
20“Because he knew no quiet within him,
He does not retain anything he desires.
21“Nothing remains for him to devour,
Therefore his prosperity does not endure.
22“In the fullness of his plenty he will be cramped;
The hand of everyone who suffers will come against him.
23“When he fills his belly,
God will send His fierce anger on him
And will rain it on him while he is eating.
24“He may flee from the iron weapon,
But the bronze bow will pierce him.
25“It is drawn forth and comes out of his back,
Even the glittering point from his gall.
Terrors come upon him,
26Complete darkness is held in reserve for his treasures,
And unfanned fire will devour him;
It will consume the survivor in his tent.
27“The heavens will reveal his iniquity,
And the earth will rise up against him.
28“The increase of his house will depart;
His possessions will flow away in the day of His anger.
29“This is the wicked man’s portion from God,
Even the heritage decreed to him by God.”
Summary Key Points:
- Zophar’s Perspective: In Job 20, Zophar offers his perspective on the fate of the wicked. He presents the idea that the wicked may experience periods of success, giving the impression that they thrive in their wickedness.
- Apparent Prosperity: Zophar paints a vivid picture of the wicked’s apparent prosperity, describing their opulent lifestyles, flourishing enterprises, and the illusion of sustained triumph.
- The Swift Demise: Despite their success, Zophar warns that the wicked will eventually face a sudden and irreversible downfall. He speaks of God’s judgment, which will ultimately overtake them.
Let us reflect on the ongoing discussions in the Book of Job and consider the choices we make in our lives. Have you ever questioned why the wicked seem to prosper? Take a moment to pray for discernment in understanding divine justice and to seek God’s guidance in your own journey.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before you seeking wisdom and discernment. Help us understand the complexities of divine justice, especially when we witness the apparent success of the wicked. Guide us in our own choices, and may we trust in your ultimate judgment. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Discussion: Share your thoughts on the challenges posed by the success of the wicked. Have you questioned why it seems that sometimes they thrive?
Engage in discussions with friends and family, and feel free to comment below to share your insights and reflections.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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