What does "hidden from the scourge of the tongue" teach about God's deliverance? Job 5:21 in Focus “You will be hidden from the scourge of the tongue, and will not fear devastation when it comes.” (Job 5:21) A Closer Look at the Phrase • Hidden – God places the believer out of sight, beyond the reach of the attack. • Scourge – a whip or lash; here picturing cruel, cutting words. • Tongue – the source of slander, mockery, false accusation, and gossip. Together the words describe God shielding His people from the destructive force of hostile speech. What This Reveals about God’s Deliverance • Protective covering – He intercepts verbal assaults before they do lasting damage. • Freedom from fear – Even when lies circulate, hearts remain calm. • Preservation of reputation – The Lord guards the good name of His servants until truth prevails. • Vindication in His timing – He eventually exposes falsehood and honors the righteous. • Comprehensive safety – Protection extends beyond words to “devastation” of any kind. Related Scriptures Echoing the Promise • Psalm 31:20 – “You hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the schemes of men; You conceal them in Your shelter from accusing tongues.” • Isaiah 54:17 – “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.” • Psalm 27:5 – “For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His shelter; He will conceal me under the cover of His tent; He will set me high upon a rock.” • Proverbs 18:10 – “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” • 1 Peter 2:23 – “When He was reviled, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” • Romans 8:33 – “Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.” Practical Encouragement for Today • Rest in God’s verdict instead of chasing every rumor. • Stay under His covering by cultivating a close, obedient walk with Him. • Refuse retaliation; let the Lord handle vindication. • Speak words that heal rather than words that wound, mirroring the protection you receive. • Hold fast to the certainty that the Judge of all the earth will settle every score and honor every faithful servant. |
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