Elihu was not happy with Job. It was because Job, in his own defense, had justified himself rather than God (32:1-2). Here, in Elihu's second speech, he addressed the three friends and then Job. God is the Righteous Judge. He is the standard of justice. Through him we have life, and he governs all life with justice, from the lowest pauper to the highest nobility of this world. His judgment is perfect and flawless. God sees all things. He has the power to punish sin and protect his own, to keep the godless men of this world from crushing the poor and needy. If he is silent, it is by his choice, but he is still ruling with justice.

What can we do when confronted with God's righteousness and justice? It is tempting to change our behavior-to refrain from offending others or ceasing our wrongdoing-and expect God to reward us. But God does not work on our terms. We are called to more than behavior modification. God wants us. He wants our repentance. We must decide to surrender to God completely and be an acceptable offering for his sake.


Application: Lord, you alone are just. Heal my stubborn refusal to repent. Bless me to live in the light of your justice.
One Word: Live under God's justice