How should believers respond when observing the prosperity of the unrighteous? Setting the Scene—Job 21:11 • “They send forth their little ones like a flock; their children dance about.” • Job notes how the ungodly seem carefree, their families thriving. The verse captures a broader complaint: the unrighteous appear to flourish without consequence. Seeing Prosperity for What It Is • Scripture presents the prosperity of the wicked as real but fleeting. – Psalm 73:12-13: “Behold, these are the wicked—always carefree, they increase their wealth.” – Job 21:13: “They spend their days in prosperity and go down to Sheol in peace.” • The apparent blessing is limited to this present age; it does not signal divine approval. Why God Allows It • Demonstrates His patience (Romans 2:4). • Sets a stage for ultimate justice (Ecclesiastes 8:12-13). • Tests the righteous, revealing whether they value God Himself or only temporal reward (Deuteronomy 8:2). Guarding the Heart Against Envy • Psalm 37:1-2: “Do not fret because of evildoers… for they wither quickly like grass.” • Proverbs 24:19-20: “Do not fret over evildoers… the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out.” • Envy distracts from gratitude, warps perception of God’s goodness, and invites bitterness. Anchoring in Eternal Perspective • 2 Corinthians 4:17-18: present troubles are “light and momentary” compared with eternal glory. • Luke 16:25: earthly reversal in the life to come underscores that eternal realities outweigh present appearances. • Galatians 6:7-8: sowing to the flesh yields corruption; sowing to the Spirit reaps eternal life. Practical Responses for Believers 1. Trust God’s Justice • Romans 12:19: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” 2. Continue Doing Good • Psalm 37:3: “Trust in the LORD and do good.” 3. Cultivate Contentment • 1 Timothy 6:6: “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” 4. Invest in Eternity • Matthew 6:20: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” 5. Pray for the Unrighteous • Matthew 5:44 urges love for enemies, seeking their repentance. Living It Out Today • Rehearse God’s promises daily; let eternal hope reshape perspective. • Celebrate the blessings God has given, however modest, acknowledging every gift as from His hand. • Serve faithfully in the present, confident that the Judge of all the earth will do right. Closing Encouragement The dance of the ungodly’s children (Job 21:11) is a passing scene. The righteous can watch without anxiety, assured that God’s timeline will vindicate faith, reward obedience, and reveal the prosperity of the unrighteous as mere vapor. |
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