“Shall
he who argues contend with the Almighty? He who argues with God, let him answer it.”
Job 40:2
Job 40 [1.] Moreover Yahweh answered Job,
“Shall he who argues contend with the Almighty?
He who argues with God, let him answer it.”
Then Job answered Yahweh,
“Behold, I am of small account. What shall I answer you?
I lay my hand on my mouth.
I have spoken once, and I will not answer;
Yes, twice, but I will proceed no further.”
Then Yahweh answered Job out of the whirlwind,
“Now brace yourself like a man.
I will question you, and you will answer me...”
Meaning:
- Acknowledging God's Sovereignty:
This verse highlights the incomparable greatness and authority of God. It poses a rhetorical question, questioning the wisdom of contending with the Almighty. Job is reminded of the futility of challenging God's sovereignty and wisdom, emphasizing the need for humility and reverence in his response.
- Submission to God's Will:
Job is called to answer for his words and actions, but ultimately, he is called to submit to God's will and authority. The verse underscores the importance of surrendering to God's plans and purposes, recognizing that His ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts.
Significance:
Humility Before God: Job 40:2 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of humility in our relationship with God. When faced with the mysteries of God's ways or the trials of life, we are called to approach Him with reverence and awe, acknowledging His sovereignty and wisdom.
Trusting in God's Wisdom: The verse encourages us to trust in God's wisdom and goodness, even when we cannot understand His purposes. Instead of challenging God or questioning His actions, we are called to trust in His sovereignty and submit to His will, knowing that He works all things together for good for those who love Him.
Cross References:
Isaiah 45:9: "Woe to him who strives with his Maker— a clay pot among the clay pots of the earth! Shall the clay ask him who fashions it, 'What are you making?' or your work, 'He has no hands?'"
This verse from Isaiah echoes the sentiment of Job 40:2, emphasizing the folly of contending with God or questioning His actions. It reminds us of our finite understanding compared to God's infinite wisdom.
Romans 9:20-21: "But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed ask him who formed it, 'Why did you make me like this?' Doesn’t the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?"
Paul references the imagery of a potter and clay to illustrate the relationship between God and His creation. It reinforces the idea that we, as finite beings, are not in a position to question or challenge God's sovereign will.
In Conclusion: Job 40:2 serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of humility and submission in our relationship with God. It calls us to recognize His sovereignty, wisdom, and authority, and to trust in His goodness and faithfulness, even in the midst of life's trials and uncertainties.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible