Highlights:

Elihu becomes critical and accuses Job of being arrogant (Job chap. 34). Then, in case Job is forgetful, he reminds him of the justice of God (chap. 35). Elihu keeps talking and reminds Job of the power of God (chap. 36 — 37).

When Job's three friends had nothing more to say, Elihu condemned them and then expressed even greater hostility toward Job. Four times in five verses we read variations of the phrase that Elihu's wrath was kindled (Job 32:1-5).

This young egotist referred to himself by the words "me," "my," and "I" at least 55 times to inform Job that he alone was chosen to intercede on Job's behalf and that he was the Lord's spokesman to Job (32:6 — 33:33). He agreed with Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar that Job was a sinner, but said that they were self-appointed judges who had failed to prove their charges.

Elihu denounced Job: Therefore doth Job open his mouth in vain; he multiplieth words without knowledge (35:16). My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end because of his answers for wicked men. For he added rebellion unto his sin . . . and multiplieth his words against God (34:36-37). Elihu's desire that Job be tried was granted. Notice how opposite and differing in character his evaluation of Job was than the Lord's. God proclaimed Job as My servant . . . there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man (1:8). Then, following Job's test of faith, God gladly honored Job by saying to Job's friends: My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of Me the thing that is right, as My servant Job hath. . . . My servant Job shall pray for you (42:7-8). Elihu was interrupted by the wrath of the Almighty, who said to Job: Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? (38:2).

Counselors may have all the degrees and qualifications the world can give, but unless their advice is in harmony with the Word of God, it is "darkened counsel."

During times of afflictions, heartbreaking bereavement, persecution, or financial struggles, we may be tempted to become so depressed that we even fail to pray. At such times, we especially need someone's loving comfort and assurance that our Lord ultimately controls every situation that comes into our lives. Regardless of how bad our situation may seem, He wants to use it for our good and for His glory (Rom. 8:28; also Gen. 50:20).

Have faith in the wisdom and love of God, casting all your care (anxiety) upon Him; for He careth for you (I Pet. 5:7).

Thought for Today:

Judging and criticizing another Christian is a serious sin; we have no way of knowing how God is working in the heart of His child.

Christ Revealed:

As the One who watches how we live and what we do (Job 34:21). The Lord keeps His eyes on the righteous (I Pet. 3:12).

Word Studies:

34:36 wicked men evil men; 36:8 holden held fast; 36:16 no straitness no restraint or restriction; 36:23 enjoined appointed; 36:33 The noise thereof sheweth concerning it, the cattle also concerning the vapour his thunder announces the coming storm; even the cattle make known its approach; 37:10 straitened frozen; 37:22 terrible awesome.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Officials: Rep. Robert Dold (IN) and Justice Clarence Thomas • Country: Malawi (10 million) in southeastern Africa • Major languages: English and Chichewa • Religious freedom • 34% Protestant; 23% Roman Catholic; 16% Muslim; 16% animist; 4% cults • Prayer Suggestion: Pray, in faith, for God to work a miracle (II Kings 4:33-34).

Optional Reading:

Ephesians 6

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:36