What can we learn about God's justice from Job 20:11? Opening the Passage “His bones are full of youthful vigor, but it will lie down with him in the dust.” (Job 20:11) Verse in Context • These words come from Zophar’s second speech to Job (Job 20). • Zophar argues that the wicked may appear strong and confident, yet their end is certain and abrupt. • Although Zophar misapplies his point to righteous Job, the principle itself—God’s sure justice—remains true. Key Observations • “Bones … full of youthful vigor” – outward strength, health, and apparent invincibility. • “Lie down … in the dust” – inevitable death; a picture of humiliation and decay after a life of pride. • Contrast highlights God’s timetable: present prosperity does not cancel coming judgment (cf. Psalm 37:9–10). Truths About God’s Justice • Justice is inevitable – Hebrews 9:27: “It is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment.” – Ecclesiastes 12:14: God brings every deed into judgment, “whether good or evil.” • Justice is impartial – Romans 2:11: “For there is no partiality with God.” – Outward power or youth cannot shield anyone from divine reckoning. • Justice may be delayed, never denied – Galatians 6:7: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” – What looks like delay is actually God’s patience (2 Peter 3:9). • Justice is tied to mortality – Job 20:11 links vigor to dust, showing death as the threshold where accounts are settled (Luke 16:22–23). Lessons for Today • Evaluate life by eternity, not present appearance. • Reject envy of those who prosper through wrongdoing (Psalm 73:2–20). • Embrace repentance while God’s patience remains (Acts 17:30–31). • Rest in God’s promise that every wrong either meets the cross or the final judgment (Isaiah 61:8; Revelation 20:11–12). Living the Truth • Cultivate humility—our “vigorous bones” are temporary. • Practice integrity—God sees beyond appearances. • Share the gospel—Christ satisfies justice for all who believe (Romans 3:24–26). |
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