Elihu Proclaims God’s Justice

Job 34:1–15
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Elihu turns to the three friends and has a word for them (v. 1). In this second speech to Job, Elihu sets himself up to defend God. God certainly doesn’t need any help, as He made the one who wants to be the defender. He admonished the wise to listen (v. 2) and to test his words as one tests food with the tongue (v. 3). Elihu must have been a good listener, because he was able to quote Job’s words. However, he listened with his ears but not with his heart, which made his speeches harsh and unkind. After that they were to make their judgments (v. 4). Job had made the claim that he had “right” on his side and that God had treated him unjustly (v. 5). Yet what had happened to Job seemed to contradict his claims (v. 6). Elihu wanted to know if there was  anyone else who would say that virtue was without merit (v. 7).

Elihu charged Job with keeping company with the wicked (v. 8), even though there was no proof that he had actually said the things with which he was charged (v. 9). Elihu began his vindication speech by declaring that it was impossible for God to do wrong (v. 10). He argued that God renders to man what he deserves (v. 11) and that He will never do any more or less than that (v. 12). He questioned whether God had been authorized to take up His position of authority over the earth (v. 13). But if God should only think of Himself and forget man, man would immediately perish (vv. 14-15).

Application

If I say that God is wrong then I am wrong. God is always right and you and I are always the ones that are wrong. No matter what God does, He is right. He doesn’t have to report to you or me. He doesn’t need to ask my permission to do something. When things don’t go my way and I’m tempted to try to help God out, I need to remember that God is God, and He doesn’t need my help. It is amazing that He even uses me.