I must speak and find relief;
In the context of Job 32, Elihu, a younger man, is speaking after Job's three friends have ceased their arguments. Elihu feels compelled to speak because he believes he has a fresh perspective. The phrase "I must speak and find relief" indicates a deep internal pressure to express his thoughts, suggesting that withholding his insights would be burdensome. This reflects a common biblical theme where speaking truth or wisdom brings relief, as seen in Jeremiah 20:9, where the prophet describes God's word as a fire in his bones that he cannot hold in. The idea of finding relief through speech also aligns with the biblical principle that truth brings freedom (John 8:32).

I must open my lips and respond.
Elihu's decision to "open my lips and respond" signifies his readiness to engage in the dialogue with Job and his friends. This action is not just about speaking but responding to the arguments and complaints that have been presented. In the cultural context of the Ancient Near East, dialogue and debate were common methods for exploring truth and wisdom. Elihu's response is an attempt to bring clarity and understanding to the situation. This mirrors the role of a prophet or wise counselor in the Old Testament, who speaks not only to convey personal opinion but to offer divine insight or correction. Elihu's speech can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate Word and wisdom of God, bringing truth and understanding to humanity (John 1:1, Colossians 2:3).

1. Elihu
A young man who speaks after Job's three friends have finished their discourse. He is introduced in Job 32 and is characterized by his youthful zeal and desire to offer a fresh perspective on Job's suffering.

2. Job
The central figure of the book, a man who experiences profound suffering and seeks to understand the reasons behind his trials.

3. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who have attempted to explain Job's suffering through traditional wisdom, suggesting it is a result of sin.

4. The Dialogue
The ongoing conversation between Job and his friends, which Elihu interrupts to offer his own insights.

5. The Setting
The land of Uz, where Job and his friends are gathered, providing a backdrop for the theological and philosophical discussions.The Importance of Speaking Truth
Elihu feels compelled to speak, suggesting that there are times when sharing our perspective is necessary, especially when it aligns with truth and wisdom.

The Role of Youth in Wisdom
Elihu's youth does not disqualify him from contributing to the conversation. This highlights the value of diverse perspectives, regardless of age.

The Need for Discernment
While Elihu is eager to speak, it is crucial to discern when and how to share our thoughts, ensuring they are edifying and aligned with God's truth.

Finding Relief in Expression
Elihu's statement reflects a human need to express oneself, especially in matters of deep conviction. This can be a form of relief and clarity.

Balancing Zeal with Humility
Elihu's zeal is commendable, but it must be balanced with humility and a willingness to listen to others.1. What is the meaning of Job 32:20?

2. How can we ensure our words are guided by the Holy Spirit today?

3. What does Job 32:20 teach about expressing our thoughts and feelings?

4. How does Job 32:20 connect with James 1:19 on listening and speaking?

5. In what ways can we apply Job 32:20 to our daily conversations?

6. How does "relieve myself" in Job 32:20 relate to sharing burdens with others?

7. What does Job 32:20 reveal about the nature of divine inspiration and human expression?

8. How does Job 32:20 challenge our understanding of speaking truth in faith?

9. In what ways does Job 32:20 emphasize the urgency of sharing one's convictions?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Job 32?

11. How can Job's complaint in Job 3 align with a just and sovereign God, if he questions the value of his own birth?

12. Why does God seem silent when people pray?

13. Job 32:16-22 - Are there any textual or historical clues suggesting this chapter might be a later insertion, potentially creating inconsistencies within the book?

14. What does 'miserable comforters' mean in the Bible?I must speak

The young man Elihu has listened long enough to Job and his three friends. The fire God has kindled in his heart now presses for expression.

• Jeremiah felt the same divine urgency: “But His word was in my heart like a fire…I was weary of holding it back, and I could not” (Jeremiah 20:9).

• Peter and John declared, “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20).

• Silence in the face of error can become complicity (Ezekiel 33:7–9).

Elihu’s resolve reminds us that when truth is clear and God’s honor is at stake, remaining silent is not an option.

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and find relief

Speaking truth brings release—not only for listeners but for the speaker whose conscience aches to honor God.

• David learned that bottled-up concern “grew hot within me” until he spoke (Psalm 39:2–3).

• Paul likewise testified, “I believed; therefore I have spoken” (2 Colossians 4:13, echoing Psalm 116:10).

Relief here is not mere emotional venting; it is the spiritual easing that comes when obedience replaces restraint.

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I must open my lips

Elihu’s intention moves from inner resolve to outward action. Lips must part if words are to serve.

• “O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare Your praise” (Psalm 51:15) shows that even speech empowered by God still involves deliberate opening.

• Proverbs associates wise speech with life and blessing (Proverbs 10:11), underlining the responsibility that accompanies every word formed.

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and respond

The final phrase frames Elihu’s words as an answer—meant to clarify, correct, and comfort.

• “A man finds joy in giving an apt reply—how good is a timely word!” (Proverbs 15:23).

• Believers are told, “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15).

Elihu’s response is directed to Job and his friends but ultimately seeks to uphold God’s righteousness.

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summary

Job 32:20 captures the moment when conviction overflows into speech. Elihu’s example teaches that:

• God sometimes stirs His servants until they cannot stay silent.

• Obedient speech brings inner relief and advances truth.

• Opening our lips is a conscious act done under God’s watchful eye.

• Responses should aim to correct error, honor God, and shepherd hearers toward righteousness.

Verse 20. - I will speak, that I may be refreshed; rather, that I may obtain relief; or, according to some, "that I may be able to breathe" (Cook, Rosenmuller). Elihu feels almost suffocated by conflicting feelings of rage (vers. 1-3), disappointment (vers. 11, 12), and anxiety to vindicate God's honour (ver. 2). I will open my lips and answer. In the remainder of Elihu's discourse the attempt is made to "answer" Job (see ch. 33-37), with what success will be considered elsewhere.

Parallel Commentaries ...


I must speak
אֲדַבְּרָ֥ה (’ă·ḏab·bə·rāh)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

and find relief;
וְיִֽרְוַֽח־ (wə·yir·waḥ-)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7304: To breathe freely, revive, to have ample room

I must open
אֶפְתַּ֖ח (’ep̄·taḥ)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative if contextual - first person common singular
Strong's 6605: To open wide, to loosen, begin, plough, carve

my lips
שְׂפָתַ֣י (śə·p̄ā·ṯay)
Noun - fdc | first person common singular
Strong's 8193: The lip, language, a margin

and respond.
וְאֶֽעֱנֶֽה׃ (wə·’e·‘ĕ·neh)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive imperfect Cohortative if contextual - first person common singular
Strong's 6030: To answer, respond


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OT Poetry: Job 32:20 I will speak that I may be (Jb)