What is the meaning of Job 21:7? Why do the wicked live on “Why do the wicked live on…” (Job 21:7a). • Job observes what many believers have wrestled with: the longevity of those who openly resist God. Psalm 73:3-4 voices the same frustration—“For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles.” • God’s patience is real. Exodus 34:6 calls Him “slow to anger,” and Romans 2:4 reminds us that His kindness is meant to lead to repentance. • Long life is not proof of divine approval. Ecclesiastes 8:11-13 warns that although a sinner may do evil a hundred times and yet live long, “it will not be well for the wicked.” • The question underscores that human observation is limited; only the Lord sees the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). …growing old “…growing old…” (Job 21:7b). • Age usually brings honor in Scripture (Proverbs 16:31), yet the wicked may reach that stage without turning to God. • Their added years are still under divine oversight. Acts 17:25-26 says the Lord “determined their appointed times.” • Longevity becomes a stage for either repentance or further hardening (Hebrews 3:13). • The contrast will ultimately surface: Ecclesiastes 12:14 promises that “God will bring every deed into judgment.” …and increasing in power? “…and increasing in power?” (Job 21:7c). • Job’s era linked power with land, livestock, and large families; verses 8-13 detail those blessings. Psalm 37:35 echoes the picture: “I have seen a wicked, ruthless man flourishing like a green tree.” • Yet Psalm 37 immediately adds, “he soon passed away and was no more” (v. 36). Earthly strength is temporary, and ultimate authority rests with God alone (Daniel 4:34-35). • The prosperity of the wicked serves as a backdrop for God’s final justice: Revelation 20:12-13 shows every person judged “according to their deeds.” • Meanwhile, believers are counseled, “Do not fret because of those who do evil” (Psalm 37:1) and to trust God’s perfect timing. summary Job 21:7 records Job’s honest question about why the wicked often enjoy long life, advanced age, and growing influence. Scripture answers by highlighting God’s patient mercy, the temporary nature of earthly success, and the certainty of final judgment. What looks like injustice now is actually an invitation for repentance and a reminder to God’s people to walk by faith, not by sight. |
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