How does Job 14:6 reflect on human life's brevity and purpose? The Text “Look away from him and leave him alone, so he can enjoy his day like a hired hand.” — Job 14:6 Immediate Picture - Job compares a person to “a hired hand.” - A hired hand works under contract: a defined start, a defined finish, and a clear assignment. - When the shift ends, the worker rests, pay in hand, task completed. Observations on Life’s Brevity - A hired laborer’s day is short; so is the span of mortal life (Psalm 90:10). - The verse begs God to “look away… leave him alone,” underscoring how quickly the shift will be over anyway—no need for prolonged scrutiny. - Scripture often uses employment imagery to highlight limited time: “For what is your life? You are a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:14). Understanding Purpose in the Brevity - Like the worker, each person has a God-appointed assignment (Ephesians 2:10). - The goal is not endless toil but finishing well: “so he can enjoy his day.” The sense is satisfaction, not self-indulgence—rest that follows faithful labor (Hebrews 4:9-10). - Purpose, therefore, is found in completing the tasks God sets, then entering His rest (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Supporting Scriptures - Psalm 90:12 — “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” - Psalm 39:4-5 — David echoes Job’s plea, recognizing life’s handbreadth length. - John 17:4 — Jesus models finishing the work given by the Father. - 1 Corinthians 15:58 — Encouragement to labor, knowing it is never in vain in the Lord. Personal Takeaways - Measure life not by its length but by faithful completion of the assignment. - Embrace daily opportunities; tomorrow’s shift is not guaranteed (Proverbs 27:1). - Anticipate the promised rest, confident that God rewards workers who honor Him (Revelation 14:13). |
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