Job 36:12-22

12 But if not, they will die in ignorance and cross the stream into the world of the dead.

13 Those who are godless keep on being angry, and even when punished, they don't pray for help.

14 They die while they are still young, worn out by a life of disgrace.

15 But God teaches people through suffering and uses distress to open their eyes.

16 God brought you out of trouble, and let you enjoy security; your table was piled high with food.

17 But now you are being punished as you deserve.

18 Be careful not to let bribes deceive you, or riches lead you astray.

19 It will do you no good to cry out for help; all your strength can't help you now.

20 Don't wish for night to come, the time when nations will perish.

21 Be careful not to turn to evil; your suffering was sent to keep you from it.

22 Remember how great is God's power; he is the greatest teacher of all.

Job 36:12-22 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO JOB 36

This chapter, with the following, contains Elihu's fourth and last discourse, the principal view of which is to vindicate the righteousness of God; which is done by observing the dealings of God with men in his providence, according to their different characters, and from the wonderful works wrought by him in a sovereign manner, and for the benefit of his creatures. This chapter is introduced with a preface, the design of which is to gain attention, Job 36:1-4; the different dealings of God with men are observed, and the different issue of them, and the different ends answered thereby, Job 36:5-15; and it is suggested to Job, that had he attended to the design of the providence he was under, and had submitted to it patiently, things would have been otherwise with him; and therefore Elihu proceeds to give him some advice, which, if taken, would be for his own good, and the glory of God, Job 36:16-25; and closes the chapter by observing the unsearchable greatness of God, as appears by the works of nature wrought by him, Job 36:26-33.