Job 23:9-17

9 When he is at work in the north, I catch no sight of him; when he turns to the south, I cannot see him.

10 But God knows the way that I take, and when he has tested me, I will come out like gold.

11 My feet have closely followed his steps; I have stayed in his way; I did not turn aside.

12 I have never left the commands he has spoken; I have treasured his words more than my own.

13 "But he is the only God. Who can come against him? He does anything he wants.

14 He will do to me what he said he would do, and he has many plans like this

15 That is why I am frightened of him; when I think of this, I am afraid of him.

16 God has made me afraid; the Almighty terrifies me.

17 But I am not hidden by the darkness, by the thick darkness that covers my face.

Job 23:9-17 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO JOB 23

This and the following chapter contain Job's reply to the last oration of Eliphaz; in this he first declares his present sorrowful estate and condition, Job 23:1,2; wishes he knew where to find God, as a judge sitting on a throne, before whom he might lay his cause, and plead it, and have his judgment and final decision passed upon it; when he doubted not but he would deal favourably with him, and both admit him and strengthen him, to plead his own cause, and would acquit him for ever from the charges laid against him, Job 23:3-7; in order to which he sought for him everywhere, but could not find him, but contents himself with this, that God knew his way; and that, after trial of him, he should shine like pure gold, and appear to be no apostate from him, but one sincerely obedient to his commands, and a true lover of his word, Job 23:8-12; and as for his afflictions, they were the result of the unalterable purposes and appointments of God: but what gave him the greatest uneasiness was, that there were more of that sort yet to come, which filled him with fears and faintings, with trouble and darkness, Job 23:13-17.