When he lost everything he had in the world, Job also lost the respect he once had from people in his community. Job describes how people that he used to consider unworthy of any respect (2-8) were now mocking and disrespecting him (1, 9-14). To be despised and considered worthless by others is one of the most painful types of suffering. Jesus underwent this kind of suffering on the cross.

As he continues to struggle with the depths of his suffering, Job is no longer speaking to his friends but to God directly. He asks God why he has seemingly not answered his prayer (20). He paints a picture of how God seems to be personally attacking him (18-22). When Job put his trust in God, he hoped for good things from God. But it seems he got the opposite (26).

We may think it is not reverent to complain to God like this. But when we are in such deep distress, it is better to struggle with God honestly than to try to blame people. If we feel that God is responsible for our suffering, then we can also remember that he has power to help us overcome it.


Application: Father, help me to respect others as I want to be respected. Thank you that I can bring my agony to you. Help me be patient in waiting for your answer to my prayer.
One Word: Take my struggles to God.