What is the meaning of Job 20:22? In the midst of his plenty • Zophar pictures the wicked man at the high-water mark of success—possessing “plenty” in outward goods, comfort, and security (Job 20:18-21). • Scripture consistently warns that abundance apart from God is deceptive: “When you have eaten and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the LORD” (Deuteronomy 8:12-14). • Psalm 73:12-13 shows the same temporary prosperity of the ungodly, while Proverbs 11:28 cautions, “He who trusts in his riches will fall.” • The verse assures believers that worldly gain does not equal divine favor; God sees beyond the surface and sets a day for justice. he will be distressed • Distress strikes precisely when comfort seems guaranteed, revealing that inner turmoil, not outward lack, marks divine judgment (Job 15:20-24). • Isaiah 48:22 echoes, “There is no peace for the wicked,” no matter how padded their circumstances. • Luke 16:22-23 illustrates the same reversal in the rich man who finds torment after a life of ease. the full force of misery • “Full force” indicates misery that is complete, not partial; nothing of his former security can dilute it (Psalm 32:10; Proverb 1:27). • God’s justice is thorough: Galatians 6:7—“Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return.” • The phrase underscores that divine retribution is neither accidental nor light; it hits with total weight (Nahum 1:2-3). will come upon him • Misery is not merely allowed; it “comes upon” the wicked as an appointed outcome (Job 18:7-11). • 1 Thessalonians 5:3 mirrors the sudden arrival: “While people are saying, ‘Peace and security,’ destruction will come upon them suddenly.” • The certainty of arrival reminds the righteous that God governs history, timing judgment perfectly (Psalm 37:13). summary Job 20:22 assures readers that the wicked may stack up wealth, yet at the very peak of prosperity God can usher in crushing distress. Outward abundance cannot shield a man from divine justice. Scripture’s unified testimony confirms that peace belongs to those who honor the LORD, while the one who trusts in riches will face inevitable, complete misery when God’s appointed moment arrives. |
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