Job·Chapter 36

How to Apply

Here’s your chance to take action! This week, pay attention to the choices you make when faced with challenges. Whenever you feel tempted to take the easy route—whether it’s skipping a workout, ignoring a problem, or giving in to negative thoughts—pause for a moment. Ask yourself, 'Will this choice lead me to growth or regret?' Try to embrace the tougher path that might involve some discomfort but ultimately brings you closer to who you want to be. Make a list of small actions you can take that align with your values, even when it’s hard.

Chapter Context

Now, let’s step back to see how this moment fits into a bigger story. Job is caught in a whirlwind of suffering and confusion. He’s been hit with unimaginable losses, and friends around him are offering advice that’s more harmful than helpful. In this chapter, a young man named Elihu steps in, bringing a fresh perspective. He’s trying to steer Job back to a path of understanding and growth. When he says 'take care', it’s a pivotal moment, reminding Job—and us—that even in our darkest times, we can choose how to respond. This verse serves as a turning point, pushing the narrative towards a deeper understanding of suffering. It’s about recognizing that sometimes, facing hardship with integrity can lead to true freedom.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• take - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• care - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• turn - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• iniquity - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• for - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• this - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• chosen - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• than - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• affliction - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What choices are you currently facing in your life that could lead you toward growth or away from it? Think about how those choices reflect your values and what you truly want.

Related Verses

• Proverbs 4:23 - This verse emphasizes the importance of guarding your heart and making wise choices, highlighting how your decisions shape your life.
• James 1:12 - It talks about the blessings that come from enduring tough times, showing the connection between hardship and personal growth.
• Galatians 6:7 - This verse reminds us that we reap what we sow, making it clear that our choices have real consequences in our lives.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Job 36:21. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Historical Context

This chapter takes place within the broader dialogue between Job and his friends, where Job is wrestling with the nature of his suffering and the seeming silence of God. Elihu, a younger figure in the narrative, introduces a different perspective, emphasizing that suffering can serve a divine purpose. His arguments are aimed at correcting Job's misconceptions about God and urging him to consider his responses in light of God's righteousness. Elihu’s role is critical as he seeks to defend God's character while also addressing Job's plight, suggesting that not all suffering is punitive but can also be corrective and redemptive.