What does Job 27:13 reveal about God's justice and righteousness? Setting the Scene “This is the portion of a wicked man from God, and the heritage that tyrants receive from the Almighty.” Key Terms and Phrases • Portion – the allotted share God Himself assigns • Heritage – an enduring possession handed down, inevitable and inescapable • Wicked man / tyrants – those who live in stubborn rebellion against God and oppress others • From God / the Almighty – judgment comes directly from the sovereign Lord, not merely from circumstances What the Verse Shows about God’s Justice • Justice is Personal – Judgment is “from God,” underscoring that He personally oversees and enforces moral accountability. • Justice Is Certain – “Portion” and “heritage” speak of something legally settled; the wicked cannot avoid their due end (cf. Psalm 37:9–10). • Justice Fits the Crime – God tailors the outcome to the character of the sinner. The heritage of a tyrant is proportionate to his tyranny (Romans 2:5-6). • Justice Reflects Righteous Character – A righteous God cannot ignore evil (Nahum 1:3). Job’s statement affirms that divine holiness demands retribution for sin. Righteousness Displayed in Divine Retribution • God’s righteousness means He always does what is right and fair (Deuteronomy 32:4). • Because He is righteous, He must oppose unrighteousness; therefore, a “wicked man” receives a corresponding inheritance—judgment (Proverbs 11:21). • The verse reassures the faithful that evil will not ultimately triumph, preserving moral order in the universe (Psalm 9:7-8). Broader Biblical Echoes • Galatians 6:7-8 – “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked…” The same principle governs both Old and New Testaments. • Psalm 1:4-6 – The wicked are like chaff; the righteous stand secure. • Revelation 20:12-13 – Final judgment consummates the truth previewed in Job 27:13. These passages harmonize with Job, confirming that God’s justice is consistent and universal. Living in Light of This Truth • Confidence – Believers can rest knowing that God sees every act and will set all things right in His time. • Sobriety – The certainty of judgment calls each person to examine his or her own walk (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Compassionate Warning – Understanding the “heritage” awaiting the wicked motivates gracious evangelism (Ezekiel 33:11). Job 27:13 reminds us that the Almighty administers justice with perfect righteousness, ensuring that evil receives its due while upholding moral order for all creation. |