Tag: wisdom

The Study of Job – Post Nine

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Week Twelve of the Devotional Series 

The Study of Job: Week Nine 

*Note – As we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our 9th week in the book of Job. Though this is Week 12 overall, we’re still walking alongside Job. *

Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: Job 32 – 34

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 32- “Elihu Speaks” 

Chapter 33- “Deliverance from the Pit”

Chapter 34- “God is Always Just” 

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble? and when he hideth his face, who then can behold him? whether it be done against a nation, or against a man only.” – Job 34:29 

I Do – Watch Me Study

Job Chapter 32

“Elihu Speaks” 

(Read Job Chapter 32 First)

In Job 32, Job’s three friends Bildad, Eliphaz, and Zophar stop speaking because they believe Job is only righteous in his own eyes. Then a young man named Elihu joins the discussion. He is upset with Job, thinking Job may be claiming righteousness for himself. At the same time, Elihu is frustrated with Job’s friends because, in his eyes, they have not adequately answered Job or provided true wisdom.

Elihu begins by acknowledging his youth. He says essentially, “I am young and you are old, so I was hesitant to speak at first. But I have been listening carefully, and I cannot remain silent any longer. God has given me understanding, and I must share what I know.”

As you read the next couple of chapters of Job you will see why having discernment is so important. Discernment means listening carefully, considering your words and the words of others with care, and testing everything against God’s Word. Sometimes people may sound confident or wise, but that doesn’t mean everything they say is true. Like Job’s other friends, Elihu does give some truth and wisdom but not always in the right context concerning Job. Elihu’s speech reminds us of the need for discernment.

Reflection Questions / Journal Prompts:

1. How do I usually respond when someone sounds confident or bold? Do I automatically assume they’re right, or do I pause to consider their words?

2. When was a time I believed something that sounded wise but later realized it didn’t align with God’s Word? What did I learn from that experience?

3. What practical steps can I take to grow in discernment? Consider these ideas…

  1. Study and Meditate on Scripture Daily

God’s Word is the ultimate standard of truth. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” – Psalm 119:105

We can practice this by reading, highlighting, and memorizing Scripture regularly to train your mind to recognize truth.

2. Pray for Wisdom and Understanding

God gives wisdom generously to those who ask. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – James 1:5.  We can begin each day with a prayer asking God to guide our    thoughts and decisions.

3. Test Everything Against God’s Word

Not every teaching or advice is from God. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:21. When we hear teaching, compare it to Scripture before accepting it as truth.

4. Seek Godly Counsel

Wise, mature believers can help clarify things. “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” – Proverbs 11:14. We can ask trusted pastors, mentors, or mature friends for guidance when facing decisions.

5. Keep a Teachable Heart

Pride blocks discernment; humility opens you to God’s guidance. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” –Proverbs 9:10. Try to approach every lesson, correction, or challenge with a willingness to learn rather than defend yourself.

6. Observe Life and Consequences

God often reveals truth through experience and reflection. “But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” – Hebrews 5:14. Reflect on past decisions and notice patterns that confirm God’s principles.  

4. How can I tell the difference between my own opinions and the truth of God’s Word?

5. Why is discernment especially important in a world where so many voices compete for my attention?

6. Who in my life can help me test what I hear against Scripture and keep me grounded in truth?

Sometimes silence is wiser. Other times, courage is required to share  truth. Today, I encourage you to ask God for discernment in knowing when to speak and when to wait.

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We Do – Let’s Study Together

Job Chapter 33

“Deliverance from the Pit”

(Read Job Chapter 33 First)

In Job 33, Elihu steps forward to speak after Job’s three friends fall silent. Elihu is young, but he believes God’s Spirit has given him understanding. He pleads with Job to listen, assuring him that he is only a man like Job, not God Himself, so Job does not need to fear him. Elihu sees his role as an interpreter who can bring God’s perspective into the conversation.

He reminds Job of something important: God is greater than man. He believes Job had spoken as if God were treating him unfairly, but Elihu challenges that thought. God is not unjust, nor does He need to answer to us. His wisdom far surpasses ours.

Elihu explains that God often speaks in ways people don’t understand. This could be through dreams, through warnings, or through suffering. Verse 16 says, “Then he openeth the ears of men, and sealeth their instruction.” In other words, God knows how to get our attention, and when He does, He impresses His lesson firmly on our hearts. Just as a loving parent disciplines a child to correct them, God sometimes allows hardship to draw us away from sin or pride and back to reliance on Him (v.17).  I love the promise in Isaiah 26:3: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” When I focus my mind on Him, I can experience His perfect peace… even in the middle of trials.

Verses 18–22 describe a person wasting away without God. Maybe they are lost or backsliding, but there is hope: in verses 23–24, Elihu speaks of a messenger, “an interpreter, one among a thousand, to shew unto man his uprightness.” He says God will be gracious and provide a ransom, delivering that person from the pit. This points us toward Christ, the true Mediator and ransom for our sins. 1 Timothy 2:5–6 says “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus: Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.”  John 14:6 says “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” I am so thankful that through Jesus, anyone who has wandered or feels distant from God can be restored and brought into a right relationship with Him.

The result of God’s saving work is restoration: We can experience renewed strength, answered prayer, joy in God’s presence, and a life transformed by grace. God’s mercy rescues us even though we do nothing to deserve it.

Elihu closes by urging Job to listen and learn wisdom. While Elihu himself is not perfect, this chapter gives us a glimpse of how God uses both discipline and deliverance to bring people back to Himself and how ultimately Christ fulfills the role of the true Ransom and Mediator.

Journal Prompts / Discussion Questions:

1. Can you think of a time when God had to “open your ears” to get your attention? What did He teach you through it?

2. How do you usually respond to God’s discipline? Do you have resentment, fear, or gratitude? Why?

3. Elihu speaks of a ransom (v.24). How does this foreshadow what Jesus     accomplished for us on the cross?

4. In what ways has God restored joy, peace, or strength to you after a season of struggle?

5. Where in your life might God be calling you to rely less on yourself and more on Him right now?

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You Do – Apply It Personally

Job Chapter 34

“God is Always Just” 

(Read Job Chapter 34 First) 

In Job 34, Elihu continues his speech by calling the “men of understanding” to listen. He compares the ear to the mouth by explaining that just as our mouth tastes food to see if it is good, so our ears should discern whether what we hear is good and true (v.3). 1 Thessalonians 5:21 says, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” That raises an important question for us: Are we discerning about what we take in? Just because someone is speaking about God, or even quoting Scripture, doesn’t mean what they’re saying is true. Like Job’s friends, it can sound wise and yet be misleading. We must measure everything we hear against God’s Word.

Elihu reminds everyone of Job’s complaints: Job insists that he hasn’t sinned, but God has denied him justice. Elihu accuses Job of speaking carelessly, saying his words sound like those of the wicked (vv.5–9). Elihu misrepresents Job’s words, but he does bring up something important: our words matter. In his suffering, Job’s words about God may have been sliding into dangerous territory. The same can happen to us if we’re not careful. In our pain, we can begin to speak in ways that misrepresent God’s character. 

Let’s look at two verses about the power of the tongue:

  • Proverbs 18:21 says “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” 
  • James 3:5 explains, “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!”  

Elihu does speak truth about God’s character. He reminds us that God is always just. This truth is mentioned throughout Scripture. Deuteronomy 32:4 tell us that “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.” Psalm 89:14 says, “Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.” The problem is not with Elihu’s view of God, but with how he applies it to Job’s situation. Elihu assumes that Job must have done something wrong because he is suffering. That part was incorrect. We, too, need to be careful not to take a true statement about God and misapply it to someone’s life. God’s justice is perfect, but we don’t always see the full picture of how it works out in His timing.

These statements remind us of something important: we are completely dependent on God for life, justice, and truth.

• “Far be it from God, that he should do wickedness” (v.10).

• God gives each person according to their deeds (v.11)

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth,   that shall he also reap. (Galatians 6:7).

• He created the world, He sustains our very breath (vv.13–15), and He rules in perfect justice (v.17).

• No one is hidden from Him; He sees all people the same, whether rich or poor (vv.18–20). Hebrew 4:13 reiterates this. “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.”

One verse that excites me is Job 34:29: “When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble?” What a comfort! If God grants peace, no one can steal it from us. People may try, circumstances may rattle us, but His peace is sure. Philippians 4:7 says “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” 

On the other hand, if He hides His face, no one can find Him. That’s why repentance and humility are so important! We need God’s presence more than anything else.

Elihu ends harshly, sounding much like Job’s other three friends. He claims Job should be tried more, because his words sound wicked (vv.35–37). This shows Elihu’s error: he was right about God’s justice, but wrong in how he applied it to Job. He failed to offer compassion or recognize Job’s true righteousness, which God Himself later affirms.

Here is a challenge for us this week:

• Discern what you hear. Just as you wouldn’t eat spoiled food, don’t swallow every word spoken about God without testing it against Scripture.

• Guard your words in suffering. Pain can tempt us to say things that misrepresent God. Ask Him for strength to hold fast to His truth, even when life feels unfair.

• Rest in God’s peace. If God has granted you quietness, no one can take it away. Trust Him to be your peace, no matter what surrounds you.

Key Takeaway: 

God is always just, but we must be careful not to misapply His truth. Our words matter and our greatest security is found in God’s peace, which no one can take away.

Heavenly Father,

We want to ask You today to help us practice discernment. Thank You for Your Word that we have as an “answer key” to compare what we hear to what You say is correct. Help us to keep a humble, teachable heart so that we are open to Your guidance. Help us discern when to speak and when to wait. Thank You for giving us peace even sometimes in the middle of trials. Thank You for being our ransom and mediator. Help us to remember that what we say matters and we have the power to speak life and death…Help us to always choose to speak life. Thank You for your peace that no one and no circumstance can take away from us. Help us to rest in it. 

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

The Study of Job – Post Seven

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Week Ten of the Devotional Series 

The Study of Job: Week Seven

*Note – As we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our seventh week in the book of Job. Though this is Week 10 overall, we’re still walking alongside Job. *

Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: Job 24 – 28

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 24 – “When Justice Feels Delayed”

Chapter 25 – “God Is Great, We Are Small”

Chapter 26 – “Job Declares God’s Greatness”

Chapter 27 – “Job’s Final Defense of His Integrity”

Chapter 28 – “The Treasure of True Wisdom”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom: and to depart from evil is understanding.” – Job 28:28 

I Do – Watch Me Study

Job Chapter 24

“When Justice Feels Delayed”

(Read Job Chapter 24 First)

Job 24 opens with Job wrestling with a deep question: If God sees and knows all, why does it seem like He delays His justice? Job is struggling with what many of us have felt watching people live in sin and selfishness while their lives appear to flourish, and wondering why God doesn’t step in right away.

In verses 2–11, Job lists the wicked acts of people who oppress, neglect, and exploit the poor. They take what isn’t theirs, push aside the vulnerable, and even profit from their suffering. And yet, the cries of these oppressed people seem unanswered.

Can you relate to that? Have you ever prayed for God to act in a situation of injustice and felt like He stayed silent? Maybe you’ve tried to live in obedience, only to see others who ignore God’s ways seemingly prosper. That’s exactly where Job’s heart is here. He’s torn between his trust in God’s justice and his struggle to understand God’s timing.

This chapter challenges us to understand the tension that Job felt. It’s not wrong to bring these hard questions to God. In fact, it can deepen our faith when we do.  As we read, we’re invited to notice how Job is brutally honest in prayer and that’s something God can handle from us, too.

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Job Chapter 25

“God Is Great, We Are Small”

(Read Job Chapter 25 First)

In Job 25, Bildad gives his final speech, and he packs it with truths about God’s greatness and our smallness. He reminds Job that God is the source of fear, dominion, and peace. His power is unmatched, His armies are countless, and His sight misses nothing. No one is hidden from Him.

While Bildad’s words about God’s majesty and man’s unworthiness are true, we must remember his speech comes in the context of wrongly accusing Job. Even truth can be misused when applied without compassion or discernment. 

Bildad’s main point is: If even the moon and stars, creations we see as pure and beautiful, are not pure in God’s sight, then how much less is man, who is sinful by nature? Bildad compares humanity to a worm, highlighting how enormous the gap is between God’s holiness and our fallen state.

When we really think about this truth, it humbles us. It takes away any illusion that we can “plead our case” before God based on our own goodness. We are reminded that only through His mercy and grace, not our goodness, can we stand before Him. This is why Jesus’ sacrifice is everything for us. Without Him, we are unworthy; with Him, we are made righteous.

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We Do – Let’s Study Together

Job Chapter 26

“Job Declares God’s Greatness”

(Read Job Chapter 26 First)

Job begins by challenging Bildad’s supposed wisdom with some sarcastic questions. Essentially, he’s asking, “If you know so much, how have you actually helped the weak or the helpless? How have you saved those without strength? How have you counseled those with no wisdom?” It’s a good moment for us to pause and think…when we speak to others about God, are our words truly helping them, or are we just showing off what we know?

From there, Job turns our attention to God’s unmatched power. Nothing is hidden from Him. Nothing in the depths of the earth and nothing in the vast heavens. Job paints picture after picture of God’s authority: He hangs the earth on nothing, holds oceans in their boundaries, and stores water in clouds without them bursting. He commands the seas, marks the horizon, and has authority over all creation.

Together, we can let this passage stir our awe. The God who can do all these things is the same God who sees us, hears us, and holds our lives. And yet, Job says we’re only catching a tiny glimpse of His greatness.

So what does that mean for us this week? It means we can trust Him even when life feels uncertain because His power is limitless, His wisdom is perfect, and His vision sees far beyond our own. It means when we feel weak or without answers, we don’t need clever speeches from friends; we need to go straight to the One who hangs the earth on nothing. And it means we should speak to others from a place of compassion and truth, pointing them to God’s greatness instead of our own knowledge.

This week, I challenge you to do two things:

1. Spend intentional time reflecting on God’s greatness. Each day, take a few minutes to read Job 26:5–14 slowly. Let your mind picture the images Job describes…the earth hanging on nothing, the seas contained, the horizon set in place. Then thank God for His unmatched power and the fact that He cares for you personally.

2. Be mindful of how you speak into someone else’s struggle. Before you offer advice, pause and pray. Ask yourself, Will my words bring help, hope, and truth? Or will they simply display what I know? Let compassion and God’s truth guide your conversations.

By doing these two things, you’ll be practicing what Job’s words invite us to do which is keeping our eyes fixed on God’s power while also keeping our words and actions full of grace.

“Job’s Final Defense of His Integrity”

(Read Job Chapter 27 First)

Job begins this chapter acknowledging that God has allowed all his trouble, yet he affirms that God’s Spirit still lives within him. Even in his pain, Job pledges not to speak wickedness or deceit, even though he longs to justify himself to his friends. He will not lose his integrity.

Do we still care about integrity today?

Integrity is a choice we make to remain innocent, upright, morally whole, and consistent in character.

For Job, “mine integrity” means:

• Moral uprightness before God. He has lived in obedience and reverence.

• Honesty about the truth.He refuses to falsely admit guilt just to end the   argument.

• Inner wholeness. Staying true to himself before God without hypocrisy.

In other words, Job is saying:

“I will never lie and say you are right about me being a secret sinner. I will hold fast to my innocence and honest walk with God until the day I die.”

This is not pride. It’s a commitment to truthfulness and righteousness under pressure.

Let’s break down Verses 8–10: The Hypocrite’s Hopelessness

Verse 8 – “For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul?”

• A hypocrite lives a double life. They pretend to serve God while secretly   in sin.

• Any earthly gain is worthless when God requires his life.

Verse 9 – “Will God hear his cry when trouble cometh upon him?”

• When hardship strikes, the hypocrite can cry out, but God may not   respond favorably because the relationship wasn’t real to begin with.

  This implies that God listens to those who are sincere, but may not to   those who only turn to Him when desperate.

Verse 10 – “Will he delight himself in the Almighty? will he always call upon          God?”

• The hypocrite does not truly love God. He seeks Him only for benefits.

• He will not continually seek God in both good times and bad.

Here’s the big picture:

Job contrasts himself with the hypocrite. His friends’ accusations don’t fit him. He has a genuine relationship with God, which is why he refuses to let go of his integrity.

Now, let’s break down verses 11–23: The Ultimate End of the Wicked

In these verses, Job will try to teach his friends what they should already know…that the end of the wicked is destruction.

• Their children may be many, but some will die by violence, others will go    hungry.

• They will not be mourned when they die.

• Their riches and fine clothing will end up in the hands of the righteous.

• Their homes are flimsy and temporary.

• Fear and judgment from God will overtake them, and they will be cast   away.

I want to point out one thing that confused me, so I did some research for clarification…

Job is speaking of the ultimate outcome of the wicked and not necessarily what their life looks like here and now. Earlier (Job 21) he observed that the wicked can prosper temporarily and even die peacefully. Here, he affirms that God’s justice will still come in His timing. 

What is Wickedness? 

Hebrew (Old Testament):

• (Rashaʿ) – lawlessness, injustice, guilt; actively turning from God’s ways.

• (Avon) – moral crookedness, guilt; the sin and its consequences.

Greek (New Testament):

• (Ponēria) – depravity, deliberate evil, harmful intent flowing from an evil   heart.

Let’s explore what the Bible says about wickedness. 

• Psalm 10:4 says “The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will   not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.”

• Proverbs 6:16–19 says “These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven   are an abomination unto him: a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands   that shed innocent blood, an heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, a false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.”

• Isaiah 55:7 says “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous   man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have   mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.”

• Romans 1:29 says “Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication,  wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate,  deceit, malignity; whisperers,”

According to God’s Word, wickedness is not just outwardly evil actions, but a heart that rejects God. It shows up in pride, lying, violence, deceit, lust, envy, selfish ambition, and hatred. The wicked may prosper for a season or even die in peace, but their lives are marked by separation from God. They will ultimately face God’s righteous judgment. Yet, in His mercy, the Lord invites the wicked to forsake their ways and return to Him, promising abundant mercy and forgiveness. 

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You Do – Apply It Personally

Job Chapter 28

“The Treasure of True Wisdom”

(Read Job Chapter 28 First) 

Job begins this chapter by painting a picture of human skill and determination. Men dig into the earth, braving dark, dangerous places, even controlling underground waters, just to uncover silver, gold, iron, and precious stones. They explore places unseen by birds, animals, or any human foot to bring what was hidden into the light. Job uses this imagery to make a powerful point: while man can uncover earthly treasures, true wisdom is far more precious and cannot be mined or bought.

Wisdom is not found in the land of the living for us to dig up. Its value surpasses even the finest jewels, yet its source is entirely from God. God knows the way to wisdom; He measures the winds, weighs the waters, controls the rains, and brings order to the world. In the end of this chapter, Job told us God’s own definition of wisdom:

“Behold, the fear of the Lord is wisdom: and to depart from evil is understanding.”  – Job 28:28 

Let’s see how we can apply Job 28 to our own life: 

1. Seek wisdom from God and not the world.

• Just as miners labor to find treasure, we must be intentional in seeking   God through prayer, Scripture, and listening to His Spirit. But unlike   earthly wealth, wisdom comes as a gift from the Lord when we surrender   our lives to Him. 

2. Value what is eternal over what is temporary.

• True wisdom surpasses gold and silver. Pause and ask yourself: Are you   chasing your “right now” desires or are you seeking God’s perspective in   your decisions and relationships?

3. Fear the Lord daily.

• The “fear of the Lord” is a reverent awe, a recognition of His power, and a   willingness to obey Him. This daily routine opens our hearts to   understanding and guides us away from sin.

4. Trust God’s timing and guidance.

• Wisdom cannot be rushed or manufactured. As we grow in relationship   with God, He gently reveals insight for the choices, challenges, and   opportunities of each day.

Reflection Questions:

• What areas of your life do you need God’s wisdom for right now?

• Are there decisions or problems you’re trying to “figure out” on your own   instead of seeking God?

• How can you cultivate a daily fear of the Lord that leads to   understanding?

• Do you value God’s wisdom more than worldly success or possessions?

Key Takeaway: 

Trust God’s timing, hold fast to integrity, and seek His wisdom above all else. Remember…what is hidden from the world is revealed to those who fear the Lord. 

Heavenly Father,

I want to thank you for another week of us coming together to study and learn from You through the book of Job. We saw this week that we must trust Your timing even when we feel that justice is not being done in our eyes. We must bring those hard thoughts to you when we have questions. We see just how worthy You are of our praise as Your majesty and greatness are revealed to us in Your Word. We thank You for Your mercy, grace, and sacrifice for us. Lord, help us with this week’s challenge to keep us in awe of your greatness and to pray about our intentions  before we offer others words of advice. Let compassion guide us this week. Help us to seek wisdom from You through a surrendered life, keep our minds focused on eternal things, fear and obey You, and trust Your timing and guidance. 

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

The Study of Job – Post Five

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Week Eight of the Devotional Series 

*Note – As we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our fifth week in the book of Job. Though this is Week 8 overall, we’re still walking alongside Job. *

Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: Job 17 – 20

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 17 – “You, My Friends, Have No Wisdom”

Chapter 18 – “Truth Without Love Hurts: The Wrong Way to Help”

Chapter 19 – “My Redeemer Lives” 

Chapter 20 – “Search Me, O God”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be done in one day or broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — Psalm 139:23–24 

“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

I Do – Watch Me Study

Job Chapter 17

You, My Friends, Have No Wisdom 

(Read Job Chapter 17 First)

As I read Job 17, I notice right away that Job feels completely spent. He says his spirit is broken and the grave is ready for him. That tells me just how low he’s feeling emotionally and physically. Job is expressing despair and weariness.

Then, I see that even in that place of suffering, Job is still dealing with his friends’ accusations. In verse 3, he turns to God and asks Him to “put me in a surety.” He’s saying, “God, please vouch for me.” Job asks God to be his advocate because no one else believes him.

In verse 4, Job says that God has “closed the minds” of his friends. I wonder why would God allow that? I think Job is recognizing that wisdom is a gift from God, and maybe he’s saying his friends don’t have that insight right now. We can use this lesson to help us remember to pray that the Lord can help us not to be blind like Job’s friends. Help us understand with grace, not just with opinion. 

Let’s explore what God’s word has to say about wisdom:

1. Wisdom Comes from God

• James 1:5

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”

 Wisdom is available through prayer. God gives it generously when we seek it.

• Proverbs 2:6

“For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”

True wisdom doesn’t originate from man, but from the Lord Himself.

2. The Fear of the Lord Is the Foundation

• Proverbs 1:7

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

• Job 28:28

“And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.”

Reverent awe of God is the starting point for a wise life. It’s not just knowing what is right but wanting to live in light of who God is.

3. We Must Seek It Diligently

• Proverbs 4:7

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”

• Proverbs 2:3–5

“Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.”

Wisdom requires intentional pursuit like searching for treasure.

4. Wisdom Is Shown in How We Live

• Ecclesiastes 7:12

“For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it.”

  • James 3:17

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”

Wisdom isn’t just smart words. It shows up in gentleness, peace, and godly behavior.

How to Obtain Wisdom:

1. Ask God for It – James 1:5

2. Fear the Lord – Proverbs 1:7; Job 28:28

3. Read and Apply Scripture – Psalm 119:98 

“Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.”

4. Walk with the Wise – Proverbs 13:20

“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise…”

5. Humbly Receive Correction – Proverbs 9:9

“Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser…”

When I get to Job 17:9, it feels like a shift. Job says that the righteous will hold to their way and grow stronger. That’s encouraging. Even when everything falls apart, I can grow stronger if I hold tightly to what’s right.

But then verses 11–16 hit hard again. Job swings back into hopelessness. He talks about the end of his plans, the darkness, the grave. This is grief. Job is going back and forth between hope and despair. That’s actually kind of comforting. It shows me that even the most faithful people can feel both at once. Job doesn’t give up, but he doesn’t hide how hard this is either.

So as I close the chapter, here’s what I’m walking away with: Job’s pain is real, his hope flickers for a moment, but his desire to stay righteous is unwavering. That gives me permission to be honest with God when I’m struggling, and to keep clinging to Him even when I don’t feel hopeful.

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We Do – Let’s Study Together

Job Chapter 18

“Truth Without Love Hurts: The Wrong Way to Help”

(Read Job Chapter 18 First)

In Job 18, Bildad speaks again and wow, does he come in hot. He doesn’t just offer a rebuttal to Job’s perspective; he starts with insults:

“Are you ever going to stop talking, Job? Are we nothing more than unclean animals to you?”

He mocks Job’s grief and anger, as if Job’s suffering is offensive to him. Bildad’s whole speech is one long assumption: that Job is wicked and getting exactly what he deserves. He paints a terrifying picture of the fate of the wicked. They shall live in darkness, fear, weakness, abandonment, destruction, and drives it home with one clear implication: This is you, Job.

Take a moment to reflect:

  • Have you ever felt wrongly accused by someone who claimed to be helping you?
  • What emotions did that stir in you? Did you feel hurt, shame, frustration, defensiveness?

Bildad’s words are said with cruelty, not compassion. Honestly, this doesn’t even qualify as “tough love.” It’s more like jealousy wrapped in moral superiority, with a bitter undertone of “I can’t believe this happened to you, but I’m not sad about it.”

Reading this made me stop and ask myself:

How do I talk to people especially when they’re hurting?

Sometimes, even with good intentions, we can come across as harsh or condescending. We want to correct, to teach, to “help”, but our tone makes the other person feel small instead of seen. I especially think of this when I talk to my kids. What I mean as a life lesson can easily come off as criticism.

Journal Prompt:

  • Think about someone you’ve recently tried to “correct” or teach. Maybe your child, a friend, or a spouse. How do you think your tone came across?
  • Is there anything you wish you had said differently or not at all?

Let’s try something together. Here are a few “Say this instead of that” examples to reflect on:

Instead of saying this… “Why do you always do this?”

Try saying this… “I’ve noticed this keeps happening. Can we talk about why?”

Instead of saying this… “You’re being ridiculous.”

Try saying this… “I hear that you’re upset. Help me understand.”

Instead of saying this…“Well, maybe if you had listened…”

Try saying this…“I’m here for you. Is there something you need from me right now?”

Reflection Question:

How might changing your tone and word choice help bring healing instead of shame to someone in your life?

Let’s use Bildad’s failure as a mirror to learn from his mistake. We are called to speak truth in love not in sarcasm, not in superiority, and not in bitterness. Jesus shows us how to correct with compassion, confront with humility, and comfort with gentleness. Ephesians 4:15 says, “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:”

This verse reminds us that truth must be delivered in the context of love, not harshness or pride. The goal is growth, for ourselves and the person we’re speaking to, into Christlikeness.

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Job Chapter 19 

My Redeemer Lives

(Read Job Chapter 19 First) 

Job responds to Bildad with raw honesty. He doesn’t hold back. He says, in essence:

“How long will you keep wounding me with your words? Aren’t you supposed to be my friend? Even if I have sinned, that’s between me and God. You don’t have the right to tear me apart.”

He’s heartbroken by his physical suffering and by the way people close to him have responded. He feels abandoned, judged, and completely alone.

Reflection Question:

Have you ever felt misunderstood or hurt by someone who was supposed to support you? How did that affect your view of God or yourself?

Job says that God has torn down everything in his life, including his hope. He describes crying out to God and hearing nothing in return.

“He hath fenced up my way that I cannot pass, and he hath set darkness in my paths.” (v.8)

“He hath destroyed me on every side, and I am gone: and mine hope hath he removed like a tree.” (v.10)

His grief is so thick that he feels like even his ability to hope is gone.

I wonder if you’ve ever felt like something important was removed from your life? I know I have…Something you used to carry with ease, but now feels out of reach. Maybe it was a sense of peace, the ability to rest, joy in worship, or the strength to pray and believe like you once did.

Job says that his hope has been uprooted, and there are seasons where many of us can relate to that feeling. No matter how hard we try to grasp what we once had, it seems distant like it slipped through our fingers without explanation.

Journal Prompt:

What’s something in your life you feel has been “removed”? Is there something you once had…hope, peace, trust, connection…that now feels far off? Write about it honestly. Talk to God about it like Job did.

Job goes on to describe how every relationship has crumbled. He says his own wife and close family members are disgusted by him. He feels like he’s barely hanging on to life.

“My bone cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh, and I am escaped with the skin of my teeth.” (v.20)

But then Job’s tone shifts. Despite all of this pain, he proclaims something bold and faith-filled:

“For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.” (v.25)

What a declaration! He may not understand why he’s suffering, but he knows his Redeemer is alive. He trusts that one day, God will make things right, and he will see Him with his own eyes, even after his body has wasted away.

Reflection Question:

Can you recall a time when your faith in God stood firm even when your circumstances made no sense? If not, how can Job’s faith encourage you to trust that redemption is still coming?

At the end, Job turns the focus back to his friends. He warns them not to be so quick to judge, reminding them that they don’t see his heart, but God does. He urges them to consider their own motives and to beware of judgement coming upon them.

“But ye should say, Why persecute we him, seeing the root of the matter is found in me?” (v.28)

*Side Note – We will see that Job was right here and God does judge and discipline the friends later in Job Chapter 42 

Reflection Question:

Have you ever assumed something about someone’s situation without knowing their heart? How can Job’s story remind you to lead with compassion instead of conclusions? In Job 42, God rebukes Job’s friends for misrepresenting Him and falsely accusing Job. What does that teach us about the seriousness of speaking on God’s behalf or judging others without full understanding? How can you practice more grace and humility in how you view someone else’s suffering?

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You Do – Apply It Personally

Job Chapter 20 

Search Me, O God 

(Read Job Chapter 20 First) 

Job Chapter 20 Summary:

Zophar’s harsh speech in Job 20 paints a sobering picture of the fate of the wicked. He claims that even if someone seems successful and joyful in their sin for a time, their end will be full of sorrow, loss, and judgment. Though we know Job was not guilty of such wickedness, Zophar’s assumptions stand as a clear warning against jumping to conclusions without truly understanding someone’s heart. This theme keeps surfacing throughout Job, reminding us that God cares deeply about how we treat others and how quickly we judge.

As you reflect on this chapter, take time to consider what Scripture says about true justice, the consequences of sin, and the danger of pride. Zophar may have missed the mark in applying these truths to Job, but the principles still offer insight for our own lives.

Real-Life Application:

• While Zophar was wrong about Job, his words still raise a question: Am I   hiding anything in my life that I need to bring into the light?

• It’s easy to see the flaws in others and forget our own need for humility, 

  repentance, and grace.

• Sometimes, we may even find ourselves assuming that hardship =      judgment. But Job’s story reminds us again that suffering isn’t always the   result of sin.

Reflection Questions / Journal Prompts:

• Have I ever assumed someone was being punished for something I  couldn’t see? What does this reveal about my view of God and suffering?

• In what ways have I been tempted to chase short-lived joy rather than   lasting righteousness?

• Is there anything I’m holding onto, like pride, hidden sin, or bitterness,  that could be stealing my peace or distancing me from God? If so, what  step can I take today to bring it into the light and let God begin healing it?

Psalm 139:23–24 

“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Take a few minutes to quietly ask God to search your heart. Write down anything He brings to mind…attitudes, habits, or thoughts that may be hurting your relationship with Him or others. Then pray over each one, asking for His help to surrender it.

Today’s Challenge:

Today, choose one thing you’ve identified, whether it’s pride, bitterness, or a hidden struggle, and take one intentional step toward healing. That might look like confessing it to God, making peace with someone, or talking to a trusted friend or mentor.

This Week’s Challenge:

Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal any assumptions or judgments you’ve made toward others or even toward yourself.

Then, take one intentional step to show compassion:

• Speak encouragement instead of criticism.

• Offer help instead of assumptions.

• Ask someone how they’re really doing…and truly listen.

Also, ask the Lord to search your own heart:

“Is there anything I’ve been clinging to that seems sweet in the moment but is harming my walk with You?”

Write it down. Bring it to the Lord. And trust Him to replace it with His peace.

Key Takeaway: 

God sees beyond appearances. He knows our hearts. As we walk through pain, confusion, or misjudgment like Job, may we respond with humility, seek wisdom from above, and let God search and shape our hearts. While others may get it wrong, God never does, and He invites us to extend to others the same compassion and grace He shows to us.

Heavenly Father,

I’m in awe of your power. You can so easily bestow upon us wisdom if we seek it according to your word. As we go through our day today, help us to mind our tone. Remind us to lead and correct our children and others in love, not harshness. Help us to speak truth in love. As we continue through the book of Job, we keep seeing the same theme pop up. This tells me that You really want us to understand that You care deeply about how we treat others and how quick we are to judge. Help us to surrender anything in our lives that may be hurting our relationship with You and others. 

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen