29:1-6
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In this chapter Job reflects on the days of his past, when he prospered. It's important that he begins by speaking of his relationship with God. He enjoyed friendship with God, and spoke with Him as a friend does (verse 4).
29:7-25
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Then Job speaks of what his relationship with people used to look like. Due to his uprightness, his generosity to the poor and needy, and the joy he brought to others (verses 12-17)...
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Job was well respected by all, and even feared (verses 7-11).
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His advice was sought after, and people silently listened to him (verses 21-22)
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His reputation was so great that people didn't believe it if they ever heard that he spoke or acted foolishly (verse 24).
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He was revered as leader by others, so much so that people wanted him to make decisions for them (verse 25).
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Notice in these words that Job does not attribute his former status in his community to his wealth, but to his character.
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His intimacy with God and noble character brought about his material prosperity (verse 6) (Job 1:8-10); and this prosperity made him respected that much more.
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30:1-16
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But as soon as Job was given over to loss and destruction, the same men that respected him turned against him and treated him maliciously.
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“His prosperity passed like a cloud” and “the days of affliction took hold of him” (verses 15-16).
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30:17-31
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Even though Job's godly character remained steadfast, he was met with evil and darkness (verses 25-26). During his time of affliction...
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He endured “gnawing pain” day and night (verse 17), with parts his skin turning black and falling off (verse 30).
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He lost his communion with God and became opposed by Him (verses 20-21).
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His mind was constantly tormented with depression and turmoil (verses 27,31).
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No doubt, Job's former prosperity, in contrast with his present suffering, only afflicted him more. How could he be so high, only to fall so low? Job expresses the idea that God humbled him in verse 30 where he says: "He has cast me into the mire, and I have become like dust and ashes."
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This vivid imagery portrays Job’s sense of being brought low and utterly humbled by his circumstances, which he attributes to God’s actions or allowance. In the broader context, Job acknowledges that the heights of his former prosperity and respect (Job 29) have been completely stripped away, leaving him in humiliation and suffering (Job 30). This acknowledgment reflects an understanding that God’s will can allow a person to move from a place of blessing to one of deep humiliation, often for reasons beyond human comprehension.
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In this time of humiliation, Job's character was being tested, and our character will be tested as well. How so?
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1. People’s Praise Is Fleeting
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Key Point: Job was once respected and admired because of his character, but when his circumstances changed, people turned against him. This shows how quickly human praise can fade. Afflictions that lead to criticism from others can test whether we seek people's praise.
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Application:
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Don’t seek approval from others—live to honor God instead.
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Remember that people’s opinions can change, but God’s view of your heart, if you are godly, will remain constant.
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2. Godly Character Is for God’s Glory
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Key Point: Job’s godly character didn’t fade even when his wealth and status disappeared. He lived with integrity to serve others and honor God, not for material gain. Afflictions test whether we do our good deeds for others, or merely for ourselves.
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Application:
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Stay faithful in serving God and others, even if life gets hard or rewards don’t come.
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Ask yourself, “Am I living to please God or to gain something for myself?”
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