“Beware of turning to evil…” Job 36:21a

As Elihu was continuing his contrasts between the righteous and the wicked, he stated how the godless harbor resentment – even when God surrounds them… they’re too proud to call for help (v.13). Elihu contended that such wicked people die in their youth among male temple prostitutes (v.14). Yet, Job was already an older man and did not fit that mold at all.

However, God did breathe truth in Elihu’s next statement: “But those who suffer He delivers in their suffering; He speaks to them in their affliction.” (v.15) While God may have breathed truth in that moment, Elihu was setting-up Job to entice a confession. Elihu’s intentions were deceitful. He went on to tell Job how God was “wooing” him from the jaws of distress (v.16a), which would lead to a wide place with no restrictions; where Job could enjoy a lavish meal at his own table (v.16b&c).

Job was suddenly jerked back into reality by the young man’s next statement: “But now you are laden with the judgment due the wicked; judgment and justice have taken hold of you.” (v.17) Job could not get any rest from the band of accusers around him. One moment, Elihu was painting a pretty picture for Job, only to pull the happiness rug out from under him to indict him for the wickedness of challenging God.

Possibly revealing his own covetousness, Elihu asked Job, “Would your wealth or even all your mighty efforts sustain you so you would not be in distress?” (v.19) He advised Job not to long for the night when people are dragged away from their homes (v.20), and then accused Job of preferring evil over affliction, saying,
“Beware of turning to evil, which you seem to prefer to affliction.” (v.21) Elihu’s accusations were becoming sharper than those given by Job’s visitors.

One could say there was some measure of truth in Elihu’s warning to Job, for all people should beware of turning to evil. Such warnings should be given in a spirit of love and encouragement, not from a heart of malice or an accusing spirit. How does this passage lead us to a higher walk?

First, God does speak to us in our affliction, assuring us of His steadfast love and His supply of grace which will carry us through life’s struggles. His grace is sufficient in all things. We can trust His plan and His purposes. Secondly, it can never be said enough that God’s children of light should beware of turning to evil. Our natural selves are prone to wander… like a sheep looking for the greener pasture. It is in those moments when one is likely to be caught in a trap or fall into a great abyss from which s/he will be helpless to escape. Third, should a Believer find one who had been caught in one of evil’s traps, the faith-walker should be the first to come to the aid of the desperate soul and offer rescue.

We are the only Jesus some will ever see.

Have a blessed day…