He
takes the wise in their own craftiness; the counsel of the cunning is carried headlong.
Job 5:13
Job 5 [10.] who gives rain on the earth,
and sends waters on the fields;
so that he sets up on high those who are low,
those who mourn are exalted to safety.
He frustrates the devices of the crafty,
So that their hands can’t perform their enterprise.
He takes the wise in their own craftiness;
the counsel of the cunning is carried headlong.
They meet with darkness in the day time,
and grope at noonday as in the night.
But he saves from the sword of their mouth,
even the needy from the hand of the mighty.
So the poor has hope,
and injustice shuts her mouth.
“Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects.
Therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty.
For he wounds, and binds up.
He injures, and his hands make whole.
He will deliver you in six troubles;
yes, in seven no evil shall touch you.
Meaning:
This verse comes from the Book of Job, a profound exploration of the human experience of suffering and God's sovereignty. In this particular passage, Eliphaz, one of Job's friends, is speaking. He offers his perspective on the nature of God's justice and the fate of the wicked.
The significance of Job 5:13 lies in its reflection on the limitations of human wisdom and the ultimate sovereignty of God. Eliphaz asserts that even the wisest and most cunning individuals can be ensnared by their own schemes and strategies. Despite their intelligence and cleverness, they are not immune to the consequences of their actions.
This verse speaks to the universal truth that human wisdom, though valuable, is ultimately finite and fallible. No matter how clever or cunning we may be, we are still subject to the laws of cause and effect, and our plans can be thwarted by unforeseen circumstances or divine intervention.
Furthermore, Job 5:13 highlights the justice of God in overturning the schemes of the wicked. While the wicked may appear to prosper for a time, their counsel is ultimately brought to nothing by the righteous judgment of God. This serves as a reassurance to those who suffer injustice at the hands of the cunning and deceitful, reminding them that God sees all and will ultimately vindicate the righteous.
One cross-reference that amplifies the message of Job 5:13 is found in 1 Corinthians 3:19, where the apostle Paul writes, "For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, 'He has taken the wise in their craftiness.'" This passage reinforces the idea that human wisdom is limited and inadequate compared to the wisdom of God.
Another cross-reference that enhances our understanding of Job 5:13 is found in Proverbs 21:30, which states, "There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against Yahweh." This verse emphasizes the supremacy of God's wisdom and counsel over human plans and schemes, affirming His sovereign authority.
As we reflect on Job 5:13, we are reminded of the importance of humility in our pursuit of wisdom. While human knowledge and understanding have their place, we must always acknowledge the limitations of our own insight and submit to the higher wisdom of God. Ultimately, it is God who holds all things in His hands, and His purposes will prevail over the designs of the wise and the cunning.
In conclusion, Job 5:13 offers a sobering reflection on the limitations of human wisdom and the sovereignty of God. It reminds us that even the wisest and most cunning among us are subject to divine judgment, and that God's purposes will ultimately be accomplished. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we seek wisdom with humility and trust in the wisdom and justice of our sovereign God.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible