How should Job 36:6 influence our response to injustice in the world? The verse in focus “He does not keep the wicked alive, but He gives justice to the afflicted.” (Job 36:6) What the verse says about God’s character • God’s justice is active, not passive—He “does not keep the wicked alive.” • God is personally invested in the oppressed—He “gives justice to the afflicted.” • Elihu speaks of these realities as settled facts, underscoring their reliability. Implications for how we view injustice • Injustice is temporary; God’s verdict will ultimately prevail. • The afflicted are never forgotten or unseen by the Lord. • We can oppose wrongdoing without despair, knowing God stands behind righteousness. Practical responses to modern injustice • Trust God’s timetable – Psalm 37:28 “For the LORD loves justice and will not forsake His saints.” • Act justly ourselves – Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good… to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” • Advocate for the afflicted – Proverbs 31:8–9 “Open your mouth for the mute… defend the rights of the poor and needy.” • Refuse personal vengeance – Romans 12:19 “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” • Pray and labor for reform while resting in God’s ultimate judgment – Isaiah 1:17 “Learn to do right; seek justice; correct the oppressor.” Encouragement from related passages • Psalm 103:6 “The LORD executes righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.” • Proverbs 21:3 “To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.” • Revelation 19:2 “For His judgments are true and just.” Takeaway Job 36:6 anchors our response to injustice in God’s unwavering commitment to justice. Because He acts, we are free to act courageously, speak truth compassionately, and wait expectantly for His final, perfect judgment. |