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Job 13:20 (BSB)
Only grant these two things to me, so that I need not hide from You:
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Only grant these two things to me, so that I need not hide from You:” — Job 13:20
In this moment, Job is crying out for understanding and transparency. He’s saying, 'Just give me two things, and I’ll show up without holding anything back.' It’s like standing in front of someone you trust and saying, 'Just be real with me! I need to know where you stand.' Job wants honesty, and he’s yearning for a genuine connection, even in the midst of his pain. It’s a raw, emotional moment where he’s pushing for clarity in a confusing situation. You can feel the weight of his desire to not be alone in his suffering.
This book was written by Job himself or possibly a contemporary, capturing his heartfelt dialogue. Job’s unique perspective is essential here; he’s a man who has lost everything yet still craves a real conversation with God. His experience of suffering and longing for answers shapes this moment. It’s like he’s reaching out from the depths of despair with this request, hoping that truth will emerge from the shadows of his anguish.
Job lived in a time that’s often thought to be ancient, possibly around the time of the patriarchs, long before Israel became a nation. The world was filled with different views of gods and suffering, and people struggled with the question of why bad things happen to good people. This context helps you understand why Job’s plea is so powerful—he’s challenging the traditional beliefs of his time, seeking a personal encounter with the divine amidst his turmoil.
This verse matters because it speaks to the human experience of feeling lost and wanting to connect with something greater. You might find yourself questioning life’s unfairness, and Job’s cry resonates with that struggle. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to ask for clarity and honesty in your relationship with the divine. This moment encourages you to seek that direct connection, especially when life gets tough, and to not hide your feelings.
This week, try setting aside some time for honest reflection. Think about what you genuinely want to ask or say to God. Write it down, just like Job did, and be open about your feelings. You could also find a quiet space to pray or meditate, asking for clarity in a situation that feels confusing. It’s about being real and vulnerable, just like Job was, and trusting that this honesty can lead to deeper understanding.
This verse comes during a powerful exchange where Job is defending himself against accusations. His friends have been telling him he must have done something wrong to deserve his suffering. But Job is adamant that he’s innocent and wants to confront his situation directly with God. He’s in a tense back-and-forth where he feels misunderstood and isolated. By asking for these 'two things,' he’s pleading for a chance to communicate openly with God, which is crucial to the unfolding drama of his struggle. It’s a pivotal moment that sets the stage for deeper revelations.
What are the two things you would want to ask or say if you could stand face to face with God right now?
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