God is in the process of discussing His animal creation!

After Job has suffered (inexplicably as far as he is concerned, Job) for many months now.

Really, one would have thought “consolation” was on the way, from “the God of all comfort.” At least that’s how Paul labeled our great God in 2 Corinthians 1:3.

But, no.

In fact, a mild “correction” must have been in order for Job!

The Lord’s “monologue” is temporarily interrupted like this, a brief narrative: : “Moreover the LORD answered Job, and said, Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? He that reproveth God, let him answer it.” Job 40:1-2

Job had apparently, in his quest for God, in his frantic search for answers to his dilemma (about a godly man enduring such hard times) become a little “too bold, too wordy, too self absorbed.”

So God lovingly, kindly, reminds Job Who is “in charge!”

The verbs “contend, instruct” and “reprove” are pretty strong!

In Job’s exasperation he had lost some of his humility!

In fact, “contend” is “riyb” in Hebrew, basically bringing a “lawsuit” against God!

Yet God’s question is obviously framed in love! (Much later the Lord Jesus, in Revelation 3:19 says: “As many as I LOVE, I rebuke and chasten.” Note the tender verb “love!”)

Now, watch Job’s immediate response to His Lord’s Presence!

Job was that obsessed with God! He loved His God so much, that he just wanted an appearance from the Almighty! No matter what “mood” God may have chosen to exhibit! And when God “corrects” a bit … Job is still thrilled! No resentment whatsoever!

Listen, watch: “Then Job answered the LORD, and said, Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.” Job 40:3-5

Job is more godly than many of us had ever thought!

Hebrews 12: 5 is being demonstrated right here, by Job. “Fleshed out” centuries before it was ever written in Scripture! “My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him.” Job did NOT faint! In fact, Job was thrilled!

And with that meek response, it’s soon back to Class! “Behold now behemoth, which I (the Lord God) made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.” Another animal, Job 40:15.

What a God we serve!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell