What is the meaning of Job 15:20? The wicked man writhes in pain “A wicked man writhes in pain…” (Job 15:20a) • The verb pictures continual, inward agony—guilt, fear, and the gnawing awareness of coming judgment (Isaiah 57:20-21; Proverbs 13:15; Romans 2:9). • This pain is self-inflicted through sin; like Cain, the wicked become “restless wanderers” (Genesis 4:12). • Even apparent outward success cannot silence the conscience God has placed within (Proverbs 28:1; Psalm 32:3-4). All his days “…all his days…” (Job 15:20a) • The misery is not occasional but lifelong, shadowing every season (Deuteronomy 28:65-67). • Job’s friend Eliphaz overstates Job’s situation, yet the principle stands: unrepented sin brings a persistent burden (Psalm 94:3-7; Proverbs 5:22-23). • No true peace comes until repentance and faith remove the sting (Isaiah 48:22; Acts 3:19). Only a few years “…only a few years…” (Job 15:20b) • Compared with eternity, the wicked enjoy a brief window before consequences fall (Psalm 37:10; Job 20:5). • God’s patience is meant to lead to repentance, not indulgence (Romans 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9). • The apparent delay of judgment should humble, not embolden (Ecclesiastes 8:11-13; James 1:11). Reserved for the ruthless “…are reserved for the ruthless.” (Job 15:20b) • “Reserved” assures that accountability is certain; God keeps perfect records (Proverbs 21:12; Nahum 1:2-3). • “Ruthless” highlights hardened cruelty—those who oppress others invite God’s special justice (Exodus 22:22-24; Psalm 72:4). • The storage of wrath culminates in both temporal repercussions and eternal separation (Romans 2:5; Revelation 20:11-15). summary Job 15:20 teaches that sinners experience continual inner torment, their seeming prosperity is fleeting, and God has set a definite time for judgment. Peace escapes the unrepentant, but freedom awaits all who turn to the Lord, whose justice and mercy stand sure. |
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