Job's dark reflections on the nature of human life are partly the product of his dispirited condition, but we cannot write off this chapter as the sorrowful ramblings of a despondent man. Other Scripture presses us to consider the same facts (e.g. Psalm 90), and Job shows us how such hard truths can bring hope.
Few of Days and Full of Trouble
Job characterizes the life of man as short, troublesome, sinful, and non-negotiable. The brevity of life is met with the finalty of death, at least as far as this world is concerned. The salvation of Christ raises us to a higher perspective of hope and joy, but such hard facts have their place. For Job, such facts bring on a rush of spiritual reality; all of his hope comes down to God's mercy and the gift of salvation.
Endless Days and a Glorious Change
Job wants his hadship to end, but beyond it he sees 'change' in store for him. In such a time he will have communion with God, and God will perfect the work he has begun in Job.
This chapter teaches us a powerful principle that we must fix firmly in our minds. Whatever hard truths may characterize this present life, there is true hope and comfort in the promises of God. If the hard facts of this life bring that rush of spiritual reality, we are better off for knowing these hard truths that bring hope. |
