Thursday, January 29, 2009

Job 21: The Blessed Wicked

Job 21:7 "Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power?"

Job demolishes Zophar's argument completely. And it's what I was thinking as I read chapter 20. "Well, Zophar, what about the wicked people that have it so well? HmmmMMM?" That's what Job says here. Those who turn away from God continue to dwell in beautiful homes, have lots of land and wealth and offspring. See any rap video for a modern day comparison.

And its not just a smug sense of satisfaction, they are merry. They sing joyfully. They enjoy their lives. To them, their lives are meaningful.

To them.

This is pretty damning. In verse 16, Job says that their prosperity is not in their own hands. Which is interesting. If no amount of good behavior can avert disaster, then what limit does God put on evil before he brings wrath? It's an interesting commentary on God's grace, and how he chooses to allot it. And I wonder also if it's so great to be wealthy and prosperous. Do these rich people turn away from God because they have this fulfillment in life? Or is that putting the cart before the horse?

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