“Doth not he see my ways, and count all my steps? If I have walked with vanity, or if my foot hath hasted to deceit; Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity” (Job 31:4–6).
The Book of Job unfolds in three dramatic acts. The first introduces the terrible tragedy in Job’s life. The second involves debate about the cause of Job’s calamity. The last act provides the resolution as God appears on the scene. Chapter 31 might be regarded as the high point in the conflict as Job presents his final defense. We know his protests are not idle boasts because he earned God’s commendation (Job 1:8; 42:7).
Consider Job’s statements regarding his testimony: Morals: “I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?” (v.1). Job knew that immorality was “a fire that consumes to destruction.” Occupational: “If I did despise the cause of my manservant or of my maidservant, when they contended with me; What then shall I do when God riseth up?” (vv.13–14). Job remembered that God had created them also. Charitable: “The stranger did not lodge in the street: but I opened my doors to the traveller” (v.32). Character: He recognized that acting in pride was wrong: “If I rejoiced because my wealth was great,” (v.25) meant he “should have denied the God that is above” (v.28). He guarded his heart against anger (v.29) and his hands against taking advantage of others (v.39). Spiritual: Job knew the importance of forgiveness and feared “If I covered my transgressions as Adam, by hiding mine iniquity . . .” (v.33).
It is indeed a challenge to consider our own testimony against that of Job! Might we truthfully make such claims? Could God challenge Satan regarding our testimony? DW
