JOB: God – The Judge Enters His Court

God – The Judge Enters His Court

Job 37-39

Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? (Job 38:2)

As God enters the courtroom, we realize that He has been listening to all of these speeches from somewhere behind the scenes and knows all of the participants in this drama. His full attention is directed to His beloved Job. The Lord does not enter softly, but within a whirlwind and directs Job to get off his ash heap and prepare himself like a man. We can tell right away that this will not be a light and casual conversation between Job and his Creator.

Just like in a court of law there are many questions asked. God looks at Job and says “You claim to have so much understanding, so where were you on the day when I laid the foundation of the earth?” (my interpretation of Job 38:4 – Just like a scene from Perry Mason). For the next two chapters, God recounts His mighty power so that He can give Job some perspective beyond his current condition. We see that God is in control of the earth, the sea, the stars and the sun. In poetic language, the mysteries of the universe are extolled and all of God’s creation is put up for exhibit. Exhibit A is that He is Creator of all things. Exhibit B is that all things are under His control. Exhibit C is that there is a purpose for all things which He has created.

God draws our attention to some very strange animals like the Ostrich – a bird that does not fly and will abandon her eggs. The Behemoth and Leviathan are also mentioned in greater detail. There are numerous ways to interpret these unknown beings. Some believe that this is an ancient description of dinosaurs. Others see them as mythical figures, and still others believe that they are similar to the hippopotamus and crocodile. Regardless, God is describing his creation in such a way as to demonstrate His power through His creation.

Job has still not received answers to his questions, but when he experiences the Presence of the Lord, nothing else seems to matter. Job realizes his insignificance when compared to the deeds of the Almighty. He lays his hands over his mouth (Job 40:4). I think sometimes that is the best practice of our faith. In the words of the Christian rock band Petra, “Seen and not heard, Seen and not heard, Sometimes God’s children should be seen and not heard. There’s too much talk and not enough walk, Sometimes God’s children should be seen and not heard.”

Job probably wished he had maintained his silence when he spoke “words without knowledge” (Job 38:2), and he was blameless and upright! Are there times when you wish you had kept silent?