Young Elihu seems somewhat arrogant in his presentation to Job, but despite that, he certainly does have some wise things to say. He presents a side of compassion and understanding that Job’s three older friends did not, and through his more “dignified” approach, he may just strike a few chords with not only Job but with all of us. Never, ever, discount young people, folks. Elihu’s words give us hope just like Job’s former speeches did: “God is leading you away from danger, Job, to a place free from distress. He is setting your table with the best food (v. 16).” Then jump down to verse 19: “Could all your wealth or all your mighty efforts keep you from distress?”
Elihu asks this of Job after he tells him that he is obsessed with knowing whether or not the godless will be judged, and he implies that Job may be longing for the life of wealth he once had. I mean, who could blame him if he did, right? And it would be only human to do so. And Elihu says that. He says, “Look, Job, there is something God is trying to teach you, and from our viewpoint, maybe it has something to do with this and this and this, but the fact of the matter is, only God knows! And instead of trying to figure out what you did wrong, maybe you should just admit that you’re not perfect, and it’s then that God will show you how He is working through you.” In other words, it takes two to tango, and God is asking you to dance.
Writing prompt: getting it all back
What do you think about Elihu’s words? Is Job just longing to get all his wealth and riches back?
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