but He despises no one
This phrase reveals God's impartiality and His love for all creation. Despite His might, God does not look down on anyone, reflecting His just and merciful nature. This is consistent with the biblical teaching that God shows no favoritism (Acts 10:34-35). In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, where gods were often seen as capricious and favoring the powerful, this statement is revolutionary, portraying a God who values each individual.

He is mighty in strength of understanding
Here, the focus shifts to God's wisdom and understanding, which are as mighty as His power. This echoes the theme of divine wisdom found in Proverbs 3:19, "By wisdom the LORD laid the earth’s foundations." The phrase suggests that God's understanding is not just intellectual but also practical, guiding His actions and decisions. In the context of Job, this is crucial, as it reassures that God's governance of the world, including human suffering, is based on perfect wisdom. This understanding is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who is described as the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24).

– The verse opens with a word of certainty. Elihu is not guessing about God’s character; he is declaring what is absolutely true.

– Scripture regularly begins profound statements with a purposeful affirmation. “The word of the LORD is flawless” (2 Samuel 22:31) and “Truly, truly, I tell you…” (John 5:24) both use a similar device to underscore reliability.

– This “indeed” invites us to anchor our thinking in revealed truth rather than speculation.

– God’s might includes His unlimited power over creation (Jeremiah 32:17) and His sovereign rule over nations (Daniel 4:35).

– Job has already heard about God’s power in nature (Job 9:4–10), yet Elihu reminds him again: divine strength is never in question.

– Mighty does not simply mean “stronger than us”; it means omnipotent. Nothing can thwart His purposes (Isaiah 14:27).

– Because God is mighty, He can keep every promise, uphold every righteous judgment, and provide every needed rescue (Psalm 24:8).

– Power often corrupts human rulers, but God’s omnipotence is joined to perfect love and justice.

– “God does not show favoritism” (Acts 10:34). He values every person He has made (Genesis 1:27), whether rich or poor (Proverbs 22:2).

– Even in discipline He seeks restoration, not destruction (Ezekiel 18:32).

– Job fears he may have been cast off, yet Elihu insists otherwise: the Almighty never dismisses or belittles those who suffer.

– This balance—limitless strength with unfailing compassion—is echoed in Psalm 145:8–9, where His greatness and His goodness stand side by side.

– God’s power is guided by perfect wisdom. “With Him are wisdom and strength; counsel and understanding are His” (Job 12:13).

– Finite minds often ask why suffering exists; an infinite mind sees every connection and purpose (Romans 11:33).

– Because His understanding is exhaustive, His timing and methods are flawless, even when hidden from us (Isaiah 55:8–9).

– In seasons of confusion, we rest in the truth that “Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit” (Psalm 147:5).

Job 36:5 assures us that the God who rules the universe combines unlimited power, impartial love, and perfect wisdom. He is strong enough to act, caring enough to notice every individual, and wise enough to weave all events into His righteous plan. Such a God is worthy of our trust, especially when life’s mysteries press hardest.