Day 8: Job 17-20

Today, we pick up where we left off in Job’s speech. He continues and declares that he has lost all hope, and he is ready to die. He knows his friends aren’t listening to him, and he asks God to prove them wrong. He also acknowledges that his friends are worthless and have no sense. In chapter 17, we see Job is full of despair and feels utterly hopeless.

Next, Bildad speaks again. It seems the more they speak, the more irritated they get. Job says, “Be quiet! Do you expect the world to stop because you’re whining about your situation?” He also asks Job why he thinks his friends are dumb animals. 

Bildad accuses Job of being sinful and wicked. He even goes on to explain how to spot a wicked sinner. His intent is to falsely accuse Job of being one of these people. Here is how he says you can spot one: 1. His strength is depleted 2. His skin is eaten away 3. He lost everything 4. He has no children. Considering the fact that Job is blameless, these false accusations are quite offensive and hurtful.

In chapter 19, Job asks his friends how much longer they will torture him and tear him down with their words. He says they should be ashamed. He goes on to remind us that even if he had sinned, none of them were harmed by it. They chose to see him, and instead of comforting him, they are passing judgment.

However, in Job’s speeches, we can see his lack of awareness that it is Satan who caused all of his problems. Satan is the one who comes to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). It is not God who did everything Job accuses Him of.

All of Job’s family and friends have turned against him. He is even experiencing marital issues because his own wife has turned against him. Even young children make fun of him.

Job goes from lamenting and accusing God to praising God. He shows an awareness of the fact that there is a (forthcoming) Redeemer and that death will not end his existence. 

Job’s friends were there kicking Job while he was already down. So Job warned them of God’s judgment and punishment for tormenting him.

We conclude today’s reading with chapter 20. Zophar replies to Job and is disturbed and insulted by Job’s speech. He calls Job a sinful and evil person. 

He describes the plight of a sinner. He even seems to accuse Job of acquiring his wealth by oppressing the poor. He accuses Job of being greedy.

To wrap things up, Zophar tells Job that God will send flames of fire to destroy him. Some friend, right? Goodness gracious!

This is a grace-filled space. Come as you are. Participate as life allows. If you’d like, comment below and share something that stood out to you in today’s study—your reflection may be exactly what another sister needs to read.

Resources Used:

ESV Single Column Journaling Bible (Original, Black): Holy Bible, English Standard Version

The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God's Kingdom Agenda

The Bible Recap: A One-Year Guide to Reading and Understanding the Entire Bible

Bible Hub: https://biblehub.com/

Crayola Silly Scents Twistables Colored Pencils, 12 count

BIC Xtra Strong Mechanical Pencils with Erasers, Thick Point (0.9mm), 24-Count

Mr. Pen- Sticky Index Tabs, 480 Pcs, Colorful Sticky Tabs for Notebooks

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Note: I'm sharing my personal study notes, which means they may contain doctrinal or technical errors. Extend grace as we learn together, and be sure to study the Word for yourself.

By: LaRissa J

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