What does Job 21:11 reveal about God's justice in the present world? Setting the Scene in Job 21 Job responds to friends who insist only the righteous prosper. He points out that many who ignore God seem to thrive, enjoying visible blessings right now—something that puzzles every honest observer of life. Observations from Job 21:11 “They send forth their little ones like a flock; their children skip about.” • “Send forth” pictures parents confidently letting children roam—no fear, no lack. • “Like a flock” signals plenty; there are many children, and all appear healthy. • “Skip about” captures carefree joy, suggesting security and peace. In short, the verse paints a scene of abundance and happiness among families that make no room for God in their thinking (v.14). What This Reveals About God’s Justice in the Present World • God’s justice is not always immediate; wicked people can experience tangible, present-day blessings. • The Lord’s common grace (Matthew 5:45) lets sunshine and rain fall on both righteous and unrighteous, revealing His generous character even toward those who disregard Him. • Delayed judgment exposes hearts: “Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed swiftly, the heart of men is fully set on doing evil” (Ecclesiastes 8:11). • Earth-side prosperity never equals divine approval; it simply shows that God’s timetable is larger than ours. • Temporary comfort for the ungodly intensifies the contrast with their ultimate fate (Psalm 73:3, 12, 17-19). • For believers, apparent injustice invites deeper trust: “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:25). Complementary Scriptures • Psalm 73:12-17—Asaph wrestles with the same dilemma but finds perspective in God’s sanctuary. • Romans 2:4-5—Kindness of God is meant to lead to repentance before righteous judgment falls. • James 5:7-8—Call to patience; the harvest of justice is certain though not immediate. • 2 Peter 3:9—The Lord’s “delay” reflects mercy and a desire for repentance. Takeaway for Today • Present circumstances are an unreliable measure of divine justice; eternity will reveal God’s perfect verdicts. • God’s patience toward the wicked underscores His mercy—yet it also guarantees a future accounting. • Seeing the ungodly prosper should prompt gratitude for common grace, vigilance over our own hearts, and steady hope that God will set everything right in His flawless time. |
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