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CHAPTER 20 (ESV)

1 Then Zophar the Naamathite answered and said:

2 “Therefore my thoughts answer me,

because of my haste within me.

3 I hear censure that insults me,

and out of my understanding a spirit answers me.

4 Do you not know this from of old,

since man was placed on earth,

5 that the exulting of the wicked is short,

and the joy of the godless but for a moment?

6 Though his height mount up to the heavens,

and his head reach to the clouds,

7 he will perish forever like his own dung;

those who have seen him will say, ‘Where is he?’

REFLECTION:

Although Zophar was wrong in his judgment for Job, his statement about the end of the wicked was right. Committing sins seems to be enjoyable and attractive at first. Lying, stealing, or oppressing others often brings temporary benefits to the offender. Some who have ill-gotten wealth can live long, but God’s justice will prevail. However, Zophar overlooked that the trial of sins does not necessarily take place in the life of the sinner. The punishment may not come until the final judgment, when the sinner will be separated from God forever. We should not solely look at the prosperity and power of the wicked. God’s judgment on them is doomed. Remember that evildoers will perish. If you are a person who obeys God’s truth, God will hold your hand and walk with you. He will guide you with His precepts, and He will receive you into glory in the future.

PRAYER:

Stay with God for a little longer.  Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell you.  As you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that comes to your mind into your devotional journal.

HYMN:

Filled with Your Glory – www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdHDGwecUXs