How does Job 20:17 illustrate the consequences of turning from righteousness? Contextual Snapshot - Job 20 records Zophar’s second speech, describing the ultimate fate of the wicked. - Though Zophar applies it wrongly to Job, the principle itself is sound: rebellion against God strips a person of lasting joy and provision. Key Verse “He will not enjoy the streams, the rivers flowing with honey and cream.” Pictures of Abundant Blessing Withheld - “Streams” and “rivers” point to steady, life-giving provision (Psalm 1:3; Jeremiah 17:7-8). - “Honey and cream” evoke richness and delight, staples of Israel’s picture of the Promised Land (Exodus 3:8). - Together, the imagery signals fullness, sweetness, and rest—blessings God reserves for the obedient (Deuteronomy 28:1-12). Consequences of Turning from Righteousness 1. Loss of Satisfaction • The wicked man may taste wealth or pleasure briefly, but he “will not enjoy” it. • Proverbs 20:17 confirms: “Food gained by deceit is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth is full of gravel.” 2. Cut-off Supply • Like a dried-up riverbed, long-term supply vanishes for the one who forsakes God (Isaiah 48:18-22). • Psalm 37:25-28 contrasts: the righteous are never forsaken, while the wicked’s seed begs bread. 3. Reversal of Expectation • Honey and cream promised a fruitful future, yet sin turns promise into famine (Hosea 2:5-9). • Galatians 6:7 draws the same principle: “God is not mocked; whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” 4. Spiritual Barrenness • Beyond material lack, the rebel forfeits inner joy and peace (Isaiah 57:20-21). • John 4:14 shows the contrast: Christ offers “a well of water springing up to eternal life.” Takeaway Principles for Today - Ongoing rebellion robs life of sweetness; obedience guards the flow of God’s provision. - Earthly gain without righteousness is fleeting; true prosperity is rooted in fellowship with the Lord (Proverbs 10:22). - Turning back to God restores the “honey and cream” of His presence (Joel 2:12-26). Living It Out - Foster quick repentance; keep short accounts with God (1 John 1:9). - Treasure the Word—our daily stream of refreshment (Psalm 19:10). - Walk in integrity, trusting God to supply every good thing (Psalm 84:11). |
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