Job 34

Written on 12/05/2024
David Grams

Verses 1-4

  • Elihu begins his discourse by addressing Job and the men present, inviting them to judge his words and discern truth: "Let us discern for ourselves what is right; let us learn together what is good" (Job 34:4). He speaks as if his words will teach all of them. 

    • His tone becomes increasingly more confident in this chapter, perhaps implying that he believes his insights surpass those of Job and the other friends. However, his approach risks arrogance, as he presumes his understanding is entirely correct.

  • When you engage in discussions, especially about spiritual matters, humility is vital. While it is good to seek and speak truth, avoid presenting yourself as any ultimate authority. A teachable spirit fosters unity and deeper understanding.

Verses 5-9

  • Here Elihu summarizes Job’s statements but begins to oversimplify and distort them (verses 5-6). Elihu accuses Job of claiming that serving God is pointless: “For he has said, ‘It profits a man nothing that he should delight in God.’” (verse 9). This is a mischaracterization of Job’s lament. While Job does wrestle with God’s justice and the prosperity of the wicked (namely, Job 9:22-24), he never explicitly denies the value of righteousness. Elihu’s exaggeration in this chapter misrepresents Job’s struggles, potentially causing unnecessary hurt.

  • Be careful not to oversimplify or misrepresent someone else’s words or emotions. Reckless summarizing can lead to misunderstanding and damage relationships. Listen carefully and reflect before responding, especially in moments of intense discussion.


 

Verses 10-15

  • Elihu defends God’s justice, asserting that God cannot act wickedly or unjustly (verses 10-11). Elihu also emphasizes God’s sovereignty over life, claiming that all creation depends on Him (verses 14-15). While Elihu correctly upholds God’s justice and power, his tone is accusatory, possibly implying that Job ignores these truths—which is not entirely accurate.

    • It is essential to defend the character of God, but do so in love, avoiding a harsh or judgmental tone. Presenting truth with grace opens doors for healing rather than alienation.

Verses 16-30

  • Elihu emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty, portraying Him as the ultimate ruler who holds all authority over individuals and nations. He highlights God’s impartiality and justice. God’s justice and omniscience ensure that no hidden wrongdoing escapes His notice. 


 

Verses 31-37

  • Then Elihu shifts his focus to human accountability, suggesting that humans must submit humbly to God’s discipline. He teaches that repentance and humility are the appropriate responses to God’s correction: "Suppose someone says to God, ‘I am guilty but will offend no more. Teach me what I cannot see; if I have done wrong, I will not do so again’ [this is confession and repentance]. Should God then reward you on your terms, when you refuse to repent? You must decide, not I; so tell me what you know” [here he urges humility, warning against expecting God to conform to human desires] (verses 31-33, NIV). 

    • At any time, do pray to see sin that you do not know about. When we think we are pure, it is often not because we don't have sin, but because we have sin we're simply not aware of. So, when you become aware of sin, turn away from it!

  • Elihu’s point in these words, though valid in principle, is directed at Job in a way that assumes Job is foolish and refusing to repent (verses 35-37)—a flawed interpretation of Job’s actual situation. However, admittedly, Job's words were easy to misinterpret, and his repeated defense of his integrity edged on pride—the pride of overconfidently speaking on what he did not fully understand. This is something he did end up repenting of (Job 42:3,6).


 

Final Thoughts

  • Elihu’s speech in Job 34 provides valuable lessons on how we communicate about God and others. While Elihu’s defense of God’s justice is commendable, his mischaracterization of Job’s words and accusatory tone undermine his argument. Job later acknowledges that he spoke recklessly at times (Job 42:3), and this may have contributed to the criticisms of his friends, including Elihu.

  • Overall Application:

    • Be careful with your words, especially when speaking about God or others. Miscommunication can lead to misjudgment and unnecessary conflict.

    • Listen carefully and respond with grace, seeking to build up rather than tear down.

    • Defend God’s character humbly, trusting that His ways are higher than ours, and avoid claiming certainty in matters beyond human understanding.