What is the meaning of Job 13:22? Then call me “Then call me” (Job 13:22a) pictures Job inviting God to initiate the conversation. He is ready for God’s summons, trusting that the Almighty sees and hears. Scripture often shows God calling His servants—Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:4, Moses in Exodus 3:4, and Isaiah in Isaiah 6:8—each instance affirming that when the Lord calls, His people respond. Job’s words echo Psalm 50:15, where God instructs, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you.” Here, Job flips the pattern: instead of the sufferer calling on God, he invites God to call on him, confident that the same covenant faithfulness applies. and I will answer “I will answer” (Job 13:22b) underscores Job’s willingness to give a defense. Earlier he declared, “I desire to reason with the Almighty” (Job 13:3). Like Abraham pleading for Sodom (Genesis 18:23–33) or David responding to Nathan (2 Samuel 12:13), Job is prepared to speak honestly before God. His readiness reflects Proverbs 15:28, “The righteous heart ponders how to answer,” and anticipates 1 Peter 3:15’s call to be “ready to give an answer” for one’s hope. or let me speak “Or let me speak” (Job 13:22c) offers the alternative: if God chooses not to summon him, Job asks permission to present his own case. This mirrors Job 31:35—“Oh, that I had someone to hear me!”—and recalls legal language found in Isaiah 1:18, “Come now, let us reason together.” Job seeks direct dialogue rather than the second-hand accusations of his friends. His confidence rests on the consistent biblical principle that God allows His people to pour out their hearts (Psalm 62:8). and You can reply “And You can reply” (Job 13:22d) shows Job’s submission. After he speaks, he expects God’s response, acknowledging divine authority. This balanced exchange reflects Exodus 33:11, where “the LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend.” It also anticipates God’s eventual reply from the whirlwind (Job 38 – 41). By inviting God’s answer, Job exhibits both boldness (Hebrews 4:16) and humility (James 4:10), recognizing that final judgment belongs to the Lord (Romans 14:12). summary Job 13:22 portrays a man of faith who longs for transparent, two-way communication with his Creator. Whether God calls first or allows Job to speak, Job stands ready, confident that honest dialogue will reveal truth and justice. The verse models reverent boldness, encouraging believers to approach God openly while yielding to His ultimate reply. |
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