How does Job 35:9 connect with Psalm 34:17 on God's response to cries? Setting the Scene “Men cry out under great oppression; they plead for relief from the arm of the mighty.” “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles.” Job 35:9—A Cry Without Faith • Elihu observes people suffering under human tyranny. • Their outcry is real, but verse 10 shows they are not turning their hearts to God: “No one asks, ‘Where is God my Maker…’” • Result: verse 12 notes, “He does not answer when the wicked cry out,” because the cry lacks repentance and covenant trust. Psalm 34:17—A Cry of the Righteous • David speaks from experience; he had fled from Saul (1 Samuel 21–22). • His “cry” is directed to the LORD, grounded in covenant relationship. • God’s response is guaranteed: He “hears” and “delivers.” Tracing the Thread Both passages affirm that God is aware of human distress, yet they highlight two different kinds of cries: 1. Cry of the oppressed without acknowledging God (Job 35). 2. Cry of the righteous who seek God in faith (Psalm 34). What God Responds To Scripture consistently teaches that God responds to cries marked by faith, humility, and repentance: • Exodus 3:7—God hears Israel’s groaning and moves to redeem them. • Psalm 145:18-19—“The LORD is near to all who call on Him in truth.” • Proverbs 15:29—“He hears the prayer of the righteous.” • Isaiah 59:1-2—Sin can “separate” people so that God does not hear. • 1 Peter 3:12—“The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous… but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” Living It Out • Examine whether your cry is merely for relief or a genuine turning to God as Redeemer. • Cultivate righteousness by trusting Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21) and walking in obedience (John 14:21). • Persist in prayer with confidence that God “rewards those who earnestly seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). Key Takeaways • Job 35:9 shows that not every desperate appeal moves God; faith and repentance matter. • Psalm 34:17 assures that the righteous never cry in vain. • Together, the verses present a complete picture: God is attentive, but He responds according to the heart behind the cry. |
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