As Eliphaz continues to speak, his tone becomes more accusatory toward Job. He vividly describes how the foolish, resentful, and envious are suddenly destroyed by God (2-5). He says that hardship doesn't come for no reason (6-7), implying that Job must be guilty, though he does not know how.

Next, Eliphaz advises Job to appeal to God (8). But that is what Job is already doing! As Eliphaz continues, he seems to be extolling God's greatness (9-11, 15-16), but he can't stop implying that Job is wicked and deserves his punishment (12-14). Finally, Eliphaz claims that what has happened to Job is God's discipline, and he ends by promising great blessings to Job (19-26), but after all his previous accusations, it sounds like empty words.

Eliphaz is speaking presumptuously. Not all sufferings in a believer's life are God's discipline or correction. Eliphaz should admit that what is happening to Job indeed cannot be fathomed at this time (9). If we don't really know the reason someone is suffering, it is better just to be with them and comfort them.


Application: Father, thank you for the wonders you perform, your mercy, and your discipline. Help me worship you for you who are and not judge before I understand.
One Word: God performs wonders