S) "5 Behold, God is mighty but does not despise any;
He is mighty in strength of understanding."
Job 36:5 (NASB)
O) Elihu's words continue, here. From this verse, he actually goes into a fair amount of detail, about how God will counsel kings directly, in their afflictions, about their sins. In their repentance there is restoration, but in their resistance there is destruction. The whole of that passage, though, all points back up to this verse. Elihu starts by clarifying that God, even though He is mighty, supremely powerful, completely sovereign, and a righteous judge (all of this relative to be mighty), He does not despise. This is an element of His holiness that cannot be missed. It is human nature, that when we are in the right we will despise those who are in the wrong. It is human nature, that when we are strong we will despise the weak. It is human nature, that when we are successful we despise those who fail. Most people will agree that these aren't really good responses, nevertheless, these responses prevail in humanity. Like many things we observe in humanity, we have a terrible tendency to project those things into God. In His the execution of His judgment or vindication, it can be easy to mistake His actions as contempt or disdain for those who are guilty. But that is how humanity would be motivated. That is not God. In contrast to us, God's actions are motivated, if you will, by His strength of understanding. This is why, as we can read in the ten verses after this, God reaches out to the afflicted, even if He directly caused the affliction.
A) Every verse that reveals God's nature, humbles me as I learn more and more about His character. This verse gives me a key insight into God's grace, and How the plan for redemption extends all the way backwards through time. I need to remember, when I feel afflicted, that God is seeking me during those times. So, when I turn to Him, I am assured that I will find Him quickly. Whether the affliction is the result of some sin in my life, or simply a time of God testing, the solution is the same. Then, my response must be repentance and worship, turning my heart to God fully.
P) Father, Your holiness is alluring to me. I am drawn to Your compassion and lovingkindness, which is uniquely married with Your sovereignty and might. You hold the keys to my redemption, salvation, and rescue. Your grace, that You do not despise me in light of my sin, humbles me and invites me to confession and repentance. Please forgive me, Lord. Help me to remember the depths, and even a glimpse of the cause, of Your grace and mercy. Help me to have a deeper understanding of Your holiness and love. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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