True wisdom and power belong to Him.
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and omnipotence of God. In the context of the Book of Job, Job is responding to his friends, asserting that true understanding and might are found in God alone. This echoes the biblical theme that God is the source of all wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 2:6, "For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." The power of God is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 62:11, "Power belongs to God." This statement also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Christ, who is described as the wisdom and power of God in 1 Corinthians 1:24. The acknowledgment of God's ultimate authority serves as a reminder of human limitations and the need for humility before Him.

The deceived and the deceiver are His.
This phrase highlights God's sovereignty over all creation, including those who are misled and those who mislead others. It suggests that nothing is outside of God's control, even the actions of those who deceive. This can be connected to the story of Joseph in Genesis 50:20, where Joseph tells his brothers, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good." It underscores the belief that God can use even the actions of deceivers to fulfill His purposes. Theologically, this reflects the doctrine of God's providence, where He governs all events in the universe. It also points to the ultimate accountability of all individuals to God, as seen in Romans 14:12, "So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God." This phrase reassures believers that God is in control, even in situations involving deception and falsehood.

1. Job
A man of great faith and patience, Job is the central figure in the Book of Job. He undergoes severe trials and suffering, yet remains steadfast in his faith.

2. God
The ultimate source of wisdom and power, God is the one Job acknowledges as sovereign over all creation, including human affairs.

3. The Deceived and the Deceiver
These represent those who are misled and those who mislead others. Job acknowledges that both are under God's sovereign control.

4. Job's Friends
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Job's friends are part of the broader context. They attempt to explain Job's suffering through their limited understanding, often misrepresenting God's character.

5. The Setting of Job's Discourse
This verse is part of Job's response to his friends, where he asserts God's ultimate authority and wisdom, contrasting it with human understanding.God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control of all situations, including those involving deception and misunderstanding. This should bring comfort and trust in His ultimate plan.

Wisdom and Power
Seek wisdom and strength from God, acknowledging that human understanding is limited. Regular prayer and study of Scripture are essential to align with His wisdom.

Humility in Understanding
Approach life's challenges with humility, understanding that our perspective is limited. Trust in God's greater wisdom and plan.

Discernment in Relationships
Be aware of the potential for deception in human interactions. Pray for discernment to navigate relationships wisely, relying on God's guidance.

Faith Amidst Trials
Like Job, maintain faith and integrity even when circumstances are difficult to understand. Trust that God is working for good, even when it is not immediately apparent.Verse 16. - With him is strength and wisdom; rather (as in the Revised Version), with him is strength and effectual working. God has not only the wisdom to design the course of events (ver. 13), but the power and ability to carry out all that he designs. The deceived and the deceiver are his. Not only does God rule the course of external nature, but also the doings of men. "Shall there be evil in a city, and shall not he have done it?" (Amos 3:6) He allows some to deceive, and others to be deceived. Moral evil is thus under his control, and, in a certain sense, may be celled his doing. But it behoves men, when they approach such great mysteries, to be very cautious and wary in their speech. Job touches with somewhat too bold a hand the deepest problems of the universe.

Parallel Commentaries ...


True wisdom
וְתֽוּשִׁיָּ֑ה‪‬ (wə·ṯū·šî·yāh)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8454: Support, ability, help, an undertaking, understanding

and power
עֹ֣ז (‘ōz)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5797: Strength, might

belong to Him.
עִ֭מּוֹ (‘im·mōw)
Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5973: With, equally with

The deceived
שֹׁגֵ֥ג (šō·ḡêḡ)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 7683: To go astray, commit sin or error

and the deceiver [are His].
וּמַשְׁגֶּֽה׃ (ū·maš·geh)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 7686: To stray, to mistake, to transgress, to reel, be enraptured


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OT Poetry: Job 12:16 With him is strength and wisdom (Jb)