Job 36:6: Trusting God's justice?
How can Job 36:6 guide us in trusting God's justice in our lives?

The Portrait of God’s Justice in Job 36:6

“He does not keep the wicked alive, but He grants justice to the afflicted.”

• Spoken by Elihu, this statement affirms two realities held together by God’s sovereign hand: the certain end of the wicked and the sure vindication of the oppressed.

• The verse sits within a larger speech (Job 32–37) declaring that God is perfect in knowledge, power, and righteousness, even when His purposes are hidden from human sight (Job 36:4–5).


What the Verse Reveals About God’s Character

• Unwavering righteousness—He “does not keep the wicked alive”; evil never escapes His notice (Psalm 37:9–10).

• Compassionate defender—He “grants justice to the afflicted”; He takes up the cause of the humble and wronged (Deuteronomy 10:18).

• Active, not passive—God’s justice is not theoretical. He intervenes, directs history, and sets final outcomes (Isaiah 30:18).


Confidence Builders for Trusting His Justice

• God’s track record: Scripture consistently shows Him judging sin and rescuing the faithful (Genesis 6; Exodus 14; 2 Peter 2:4–9).

• The cross: at Calvary justice and mercy met; sin was punished, and salvation offered (Romans 3:26).

• The resurrection: Jesus’ triumph guarantees a future where every wrong is righted (Acts 17:31).

• The promise of final judgment: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay” (Romans 12:19); no injustice will be left unresolved (Revelation 20:11–15).


Practical Ways to Lean on God’s Justice Today

• Surrender personal revenge—entrust wrongs to the Lord’s perfect timing (1 Peter 2:23).

• Persevere in integrity—knowing unrighteous shortcuts never prosper in His economy (Galatians 6:7–9).

• Intercede for the oppressed—aligning with His heart to “grant justice to the afflicted.”

• Anchor hope in eternity—measure present pain against the sure promise of everlasting restoration (2 Corinthians 4:17).


Encouragement When Justice Seems Delayed

• Delay is not denial—God may be extending mercy to lead sinners to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

• Hidden work—He orchestrates behind scenes, weaving redemption through trials (Romans 8:28).

• Future vindication—believers will one day testify, “True and just are Your judgments” (Revelation 16:7).


Living Out Job 36:6

• Remember: God’s justice is certain, comprehensive, and compassionate.

• Rest: Relinquish anxiety, trusting the righteous Judge who never errs.

• Reflect: Show the same fairness and mercy in relationships, becoming agents of His just kingdom (Micah 6:8).

What does Job 36:6 reveal about God's character in dealing with the wicked?
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