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  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on September 13, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    &nbsp Job’s repentance 42:1-6 Job’s three friends rebuked… 

     

    1. Job’s repentance (42:1-6). Job’s three friends rebuked by the Lord (42:7-9). The Lord gives Job all that he lost, and then some (42:10-17).
    2. Application.  This wisdom of Job was in recognizing that he spoke without knowledge; the lack of wisdom in Job’s friends was that they did not recognize this in themselves. At least with four, maybe five men, there was a change in their theology concerning why people suffer; did this, however, change the views of those all around Job? Perhaps not initially, but it is reasonable that Job took the time to expound on such things – and why wouldn’t he? Perhaps, as they saw Job afflicted they concluded the Lord was against him; then, perhaps, they also viewed Job as he was gaining his wealth back (and much more) as one who was blessed by the Lord. This confusion in the minds of the people gave Job the avenue he needed to persuade people to think differently. *** If you know from where you came and are grateful to the Lord for what you received could you not do what Job did and take advantage of the avenue given to you and persuade people to think differently about life?
     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on September 12, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 40 and 41 

    1. “Job, are you in any position to judge and correct the Almighty? Have you the kind of wisdom that can bring a proud man low, or do you have the ability to deal with the behemoth, or even the leviathan?” The point of these questions, again, is to bring to Job’s thinking his real position in relation to the Lord; his position is one of complete inadequacy!
    2. Application. The Lord asked Job a number of question, and Job was able to get a word in that was recognition of his inadequacy, and the Lord was not going to let him lose sight of that. Job, with all of his knowledge, had come to realize that He who has all knowledge was the only one who could truly answer the questions posed to him. **** Have you ever been sure of what the Lord was thinking and then going to do? If so, it would be good to be reminded of Isaiah 55:8-9, and Job’s rebuke from the Lord. Man may be smart in many areas, but he is not that smart.
     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on September 11, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 38 and 39 

    1. In a rapid fire set of questions the Lord calls upon him who thinks he knows much to answer what to the Lord are elementary questions. Things that pertain to the creation of the earth, the existence of the heavenly bodies, and the matters that pertain to weather (C-38). Can Job even begin to understand related to the kingdom of the wild (C-39)?
    2. Application. What Job so quickly dismissed from his friends he finds his is guilty of the same. Job refused any accusation that he was suffering as a result of any particular sin or sins. In fact, his refusal to accepting such accusation was that his friends spoke without knowledge. Job was absolutely sure of him himself (I presume) in that which he spoke, but when called upon by the Lord to defend himself what he thought he knew was but the wisdom of ashes! In particular we need to make an application concerning judgments we make. All too often people come to a conclusive judgment and they are certain they have things right! If you hear only one side, it won’t be long before the other side makes you look a fool!
     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on September 10, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 35, 36, and 37 

    1. Elihu takes up a remark by Job that said there was no value to living righteously in comparison to living wickedly. When people cry out they ought not to be surprised when God does not answer those who have pride in their heart – regardless of what type of life is being lived (C-35). Elihu holds up the Lord’s honor and method of dealing with those who live on earth (C-36). Can man know the wondrous works of God (C-37).
    2. Application. Job suffered a great amount of affliction. It was a common belief that those who suffered affliction did so because their sin was detected and the punishment came from the Lord. Job rejected this because he could think of nothing for which he should be afflicted. This perplexity of his stumped him throughout. Elihu understands that but takes Job to task for calling into question the Lord’s method of dealing with man. In fact, Job takes the Lord to task when he really does not understand what he thinks he does – for what can man understand in relationship to the Lord unless the Lord reveal Himself to man? Paul said something about this to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 2:6ff). Herein is our application: we don’t understand, but the Lord does!
     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on September 7, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 32, 33, and 34 

    1. Elihu, the youngest who came with Job’s three friends now offers his assessment at what just transpired. He is disappointed that Job’s friends were so willing to condemn Job, but had no answer to anything Job offered (C-32). Elihu summarizes Job’s argument (33:8-11), and then proceeds to tell Job that God communicates with man in various ways to turn him from the dark path he is walking on (33:12-30). Elihu turns his words toward those who engaged Job, giving his interpretation of Job’s remarks (34:1-9). There is no injustice in God, so why is Job finding fault with God for what Job can’t explain (34:10-30)? Why Job is suffering only the Lord can say, but let Job ask of the Lord to teach him in order for Job to be able to turn away from his wrong because, as Elihu is making clear, Job is not innocent (34:31-36)!
    2. Application. It is actually difficult for me to know whether or not Elihu is saying that Job’s affliction are because of his evil deed, or whether he is just stating the facts of the case that God will render to man what he deserves (34:10-30). In any case, it is certainly true that what a man sows he will also reap. It may be the case, furthermore, that the sins of man will not go before him to judgment (that is, evident to others), but will be exposed by the judgment (1 Timothy 5:24). As Elihu speaks it is clear that he has the same – albeit modified – opinion that his three older and wiser friends have. In Elihu’s case, he is not leveling condemnatory accusations at Job’s feet, but he does address the words that Job has expressed to be in rebellion to the Lord.
     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on September 6, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 29, 30, and 31 

    1. Job begins to wish that as things once were, they could be that way again. He was a man recognized for his wisdom and charity; now he is a man who feels as though the Lord is against him (C-29). Those who once honored Job now look upon him much differently; presumably they have come to interpret Job’s experiences as though the Lord was against him, and they should be also (C-30). Job brings his words to a close in what many consider to be a great statement on personal ethics (cf. Shackelford, p. 348). In this chapter Job puts his life before others, including the Lord, to judge; if he is guilty of anything that he mentioned he would then be will to suffer. As he previously said, however, he is not guilty of doing wrong like others have ascribed (C-31).
    2. Application. A life without regret is clearly a life worth living. Have you any regrets in your life? I do! Life is still worth living because of Him who has gone before me to pave the path that I could not pave. If not for the mercy of the Lord, if not for the love of Christ, if not for the seal of the Holy Spirit, where could I go? A favorite song of mine is “His Grace Reaches me.” It is a moving song for me and they are many times when I have to pause in the singing of it – but I love the song.
     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on September 5, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 26, 27, and 28 

    1. The ESV gives this chapter a title: God’s majesty is unsearchable. With such a lofty recognition, Job, nonetheless, rails at what his friends have offered him – no help at all (C-26)! Job maintains his righteousness, and that he has done nothing to warrant this affliction that is severely against him. In fact, those who are wicked will suffer, and Job details this. What Job said his friends also said; their application, however, of making this apply to Job was a mistaken notion, a misjudgment (C-27). Man has had much in the way of accomplishments, but with all that he has achieved, he cannot locate wisdom by turning the spade over on this earth; in fact, wisdom comes only from the Lord (C-28).
    2. Application. An appropriate place to make application is with regard to what Job had come to know – even though he can’t explain why he was experiencing what he was. He had come to know that wisdom is not gained from labor on earth, and neither is it gained in what man has accomplished. It is gained and maintained when man comes to know the Lord. Not just know Him, but also turn away from those things that are opposed to Him. In a world that looks upon life as a perspective of secularism or not, does not one wonder how things would be different if humanity saw things the way the Lord desired?
     

  • Ron Thomas 7:14 am on September 4, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 25 

    1. Bildad gives his third reply. He speaks of God’s glory and asks rhetorical questions to be answered in the negative. He brings his small reply to a close; “The brevity of Bildad’s final speech and the absence of a third speech by Zophar are indications that the friends have run out of fuel” (Andersen, p. 214).
    2. Application. Job was not done making a substantive reply to his friends, however. It seems that as Job was “taking a breath” Bildad interjected, and his interjection was nothing of substance. People don’t like losing arguments or being on the short end of something they are convinced is right. Neither do others like accusation flying in their faces when they know those accusations are flatly false. Job and his friends were communicating, but their communication wasn’t being heard (in fact, it was heard, but the other side rejected what was offered). We might illustrate it like missiles flying from one side then another never really hitting the target. **** Bildad asked what I think is a good question: How can man be right before God? Of himself he can’t. He can, however, be right before God if the Lord has given him an avenue to walk, and that man walks it. Jesus said, “I am the way the truth and the life; no man comes to the Father but by me.” Jesus is our way. For some he is not adequate; for the Lord he is the only way.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 31, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 23 and 24 

    1. Job declares that he seeks an audience before God, for then he would reason with God, making his case. Job’s use of the personal pronoun “I” in this chapter is significant (nearly 20 times); it suggests a different temperament than we have read previously. Job notes the injustices rendered to people every day, and that the Lord does not charge them with wrong (24:1-17). In fact, justice should come to those who are wicked much quicker than it does – but it does not (24:18-21). As for those who are righteous (innocent), those who are wicked live old and/or die young – just like it can be said for those who live righteously (24:22-24). “Job had now attacked their main position, and had appealed to facts in defense of what he held. He maintained that, as a matter of fact, the wicked were prospered, that they often lived to old age, and that they then died a peaceful death, without any direct demonstration of the divine displeasure. He boldly appeals, now, to anyone to deny this, or to prove the contrary” (Barnes on 24:25).
    2. Application. It is so often asked “Why do evil people prosper?” It was a question for Job in his day and it is the same question in our day. The question has been answered, however. They don’t prosper; in fact, what they think they have built for themselves is seen one day and then they are gone the next (24:24). It is a challenge to us to trust the Lord to tend to things as He thinks is best. If He thought our thinking was the right course of action it is like that He would have asked us for our opinion. Has He asked any one of us?
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 30, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 22 

    1. Eliphaz speaks for the third time. He begins by acknowledging that Job regards his actions before the Lord innocent of particular wrongs, and then asked if that is something the Lord should consider profitable to him (22:1-3). He then turns around and denounces Job and particularizes his faults (22:4-11). “Job challenged to rethink his position” (22:12-20, Hailey). God will even redeem one not innocent if that one turns to the Lord (22:21-30).
    2. Application. Don Shackelford has some useful points to consider when dealing with false accusation (Commentary on Job, Resource Publications, pp. 264-265). First, do not return evil for evil. This is much easier said than done, but paramount if we are to bring glory to the Lord, and not have to deal with a conscience of guilt. Second, continue to live righteously. Didn’t Paul say this (Romans 12:17)? Surely he did, and he even gave reasons why we should pursue this course (Romans 12:18-21). Third, attempt to set the record straight. The importance of this is easily understood, but it will be the manner and the substance connected with the manner of delivery that will get noticed. Fourth, not only does one want to live righteously (#2), but even more important, entrust your soul to the living God. This is what Jesus did (1 Peter 2:21-25).
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 29, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 21 

    1. Job replies to all his friends, not just Zophar’s last speech. He calls upon them to listen to him while he dismantles their prejudices toward those who suffer (21:1-21). The wicked will meet their doom when they face God; for Job, this knowledge is comforting (21:22-34).
    2. Application. Job brings to the forefront of these series of arguments between him and his friends why their predispositions are wrong. If God brings judgment against the wicked, then why do they prosper and live a full life. Life’s experiences teach Job – and it should teach his friends as well – that their theological underpinning is built on a foundation of sand. It is not unlikely that many people in the world have the same theological underpinning; isn’t it sad when the underpinning stays in place when evidence to the contrary is so….well, evident?
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 28, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 20 

    1. Zophar speaks for the second time. His words are a continuation of those which Bildad spoke. He takes exception to Job’s words (20-1-3). The triumph of the wicked is short (20:4-11).  The wicked will not even enjoy the blessings of savored food; it will but come up and out violently (20:12-19). Those who are wicked have nothing to look forward to (20:20-29).
    2. Application. The essence of Zophar’s speech is that one can be sure that sin, though hidden, will manifest itself (cf. Numbers 32:23). This is a truth that thoughtful people clearly understand (cf. Galatians 6:7). When a man sows discord toward others, it is a bit naïve to think it will not be sown toward him. People can’t possibly keep all the tracks that that lain down covered up for others not to follow. Though Zophar’s word are true (in hyperbolic form), they were wrongly applied to Job. We can learn (and should learn) that when we sow discord in our heart we separate ourselves from the Lord by secret sins – and those things are not hidden from Him who sees all.
     

  • Ron Thomas 4:26 am on August 27, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 19 

    1. As Hailey said, Job did not address Bildad’s words, but expresses his grief at his current situation in a way that it is probably the lowest point of Job’s expressed words. God had afflicted me and my friends (who came to comfort) have also wronged me (19:1-6, 21-22). God had hedged Job in, and though he wants to pass he can’t; thus, those intimate relationships he has are now gone (19:7-20). Job suddenly takes a more positive view; his grief was at seriously low ebb, now his words change direction and speak of great hope (19:23-29).
    2. Application. The words of a despondent man can surely bring others down. Job’s friends continued with their pounding: Job was suffering because of his own sin that he refused to address and, much more, confess to God! While Job’s friends were terribly misguided in their thinking, it appears that their thinking was not exclusive to them. Why would others leave Job’s company when he needed them most, but that they had the same sort of thinking (19:13-19)? With Job we learn the value of being sure our thinking is firmly placed on something greater that one’s own thinking. The bedrock of a solid foundation is crucial to security and assurance (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:11). False thinking and the expressing of those words can send a person spiraling downward.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:01 am on August 24, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 18 

    1. Bildad speaks for the second time. Once again the accusation is now leveled at Job and the contempt he (Job) has for his friends as they seek to help (18:1-4). A short treatise on the experiences of those who are wicked (18:5-21).
    2. Application. What does one say that has not been said when communication is not taking place. On the other hand, communication is very much taking place between the two parties; it’s just that both parties are rejecting what the other is saying. On this side of history we know well that Job is right, but Job’s friends were not convinced of that. They were convinced that the foundation from which they were speaking was on bedrock; it is unshakable. Job knew better, but they rejected Job’s knowledge.  **** Is the bedrock of our principles based upon the traditions passed down? Are they based upon the word of God? What are they based on? Perhaps there is a combination of both. In such circumstances let us be sure that when we think and speak of eternal matters that our bedrock of principles are “foundationed” on Him who transcends all.
     

  • Ron Thomas 4:56 am on August 23, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 16 and 17 

    1. Job replies and remarks that his friends are of no value to him at all (16:1-5). Job ascribes the work of his friends in his direction (16:6-17), and that work is one that is ungodly and destructive; in fact, it is the Lord’s doing that all this is being experienced as his friends converse with him. Job makes an appeal that his cry is always heard (16:18-22). Again, Job’s speaks of the lack of wisdom among his friends (17:1-5). Though Job is physically worn out he will still hold to his righteousness (17:6-9). Since Job’s friends have no wisdom to help him understand he resigns himself to the inevitability of death and hopelessness (17:10-16).
    2. Application. Comforting another person does not come easily for some. Job valued his friends, at this point, as miserable comforters; they were of no value to him. Sometimes we find ourselves in a spot where we don’t know what to do, what to say, or how to reply when one says something. Sometimes it is best to say nothing at all. We have learned, by now, that one thing that ought not to be done is for one to take a predisposition and apply that to another’s circumstance. One’s comforting ability is fraught with failure.
     

  • Ron Thomas 4:53 am on August 22, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 15 

    1. Eliphaz speaks for a second time. He accuses Job of speaking useless words; more than that, he says that even what Job says is self-condemnatory (15:1-6). A series of questions posed to Job to humble his current attitude (15:7-16). The remainder of the chapter has Eliphaz make clear what even those older that Eliphaz have been saying in regard to the wicked suffering, not escaping from God’s judgment (15:18-35).
    2. Application. We get our first sense of the age of at least some of Job’s friends (15:10). With this kind of “wisdom” why would anyone begin to think that it is wrong? It has been passed down through the generations and one who rejects what is so “obvious” is not even rational! **** It is reasonable that men and women who have accumulated years and experience will have something to offer the younger generation; it may even be reasonable that the older generation will have much to offer that is right. On the other hand, the foundations from which spring their own knowledge may be built upon sand.
     

  • Ron Thomas 4:51 am on August 21, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 12-14 

    1. Job’s friends are not the only ones who can discern, or has wisdom (12:1-3). As one (Job) who appealed to the Lord, and God answered, Job received his friends who have done nothing but mock his circumstances. On the other hand, those who mock God, they are the ones who prosper – even the creatures of the earth understand this (12:4-12). What God can do if He desired (12:13-25). Job maintains his integrity and desires an opportunity to make his case before the Lord (13:1-12). The friends of Job are of no value to him during this time of affliction (13:4, 13-19).  Job appeals to the Lord for an audience in order to make his case (13:20-28). Man’s time on the earth is but fleeting (13:28; 14:1-6). Death is like sleep; when man dies he will not see life again (14:7-12). Job longs to be hidden in the grave because he is worn out (14:13-22).
    2. Application. Job suffers grievously for something he does not know; along come his friends and they lay guilt on him, but for what they can’t say. Now God crushes man’s hope and Job’s hope is gone. **** Clearly the remarks of a frustrated and desperate man. Those of us on this side of Job’s life can see that Job’s hope is not gone, but have you ever felt so overwhelmed by some moral failing, some circumstantial matter that all hope for life was gone (cf. 2 Corinthians 1:8)? If you have not then count yourself fortunate; you are rare! How well will you be able to relate with one who has?
     

  • Ron Thomas 4:51 am on August 20, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 11 

     

    1. Zophar continues the accusation that Job has already rejected. Surely, Job, you are receiving less than you deserve and, for certain, you are in no position to speak the way you are against the Lord’s wisdom in afflicting you as He has (11:1-20).
    2. Application. The wisdom of Job’s three friends, thus far, is fine with regard to living righteously in this world. The fault to be found with them, however, is in their accusation that Job’s personal strife (affliction) is a result of his sin, and the Lord is punishing him for it. This in-grained belief of theirs is not exclusive to that time (cf. Luke 13:1-5), and in this rational discourse with Job they felt he was not dealing with the obvious (reason for his afflictions). In fact, Job’s varied replies had not shown them that their in-grained belief was wrong.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 17, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 9 and 10 

    1. Job takes up the last few words of Bildad and says that he understands the wisdom of those who have gone before, but a man’s standing in front of God – how can a man stand before the Lord blameless (9:1-13)? One can’t stand before the Lord to reason with Him, but that the Lord will but crush him (9:14-20). Job now begins to question the Lord in a more serious vein (9:21-31). He summarizes his lack of standing before the Lord (9:32-35). Yet he speaks before him (10:1-12), in frustration and lament, his clear reverent understanding that it is the Lord who made him, but why would God create only to destroy, especially the innocent (10:3, 8, 18)? Job appeal to the Lord to just let him alone so he can die quietly (10:13-22).
    2. Application. Hailey gave an interesting perspective to Job’s lament in C-9: Job hit his lowest point in his frustration and lack of understanding “…when he concluded that there is no moral government in the universe, and that therefore it is all one with God whether man does right or wrong” (p. 99). **** Have you ever shaken your fist at the Lord? I have; I almost remember it vividly, but the years have somewhat clouded my thinking. I was not more than 23 years old, and one knows how much wisdom a 23 year old has! I understand mercy.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 16, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 8 

    1. Bildad speaks and is sure to not let Job forget the actual reason for his affliction. Job’s children suffered their calamity for the very same reason Job is now: sin (8:1-7). Utilizing the wisdom of the past (8:8-10), those who are overly confident and hypocrites (Job), the Lord cuts down (8:11-18). Appeal to the Lord and he will exult you (8:19-22).
    2. Application. The wisdom of those who have gone before us may be of great quality. Their wisdom, however, is a wisdom that results from living on this earth as all human beings do. We all have accumulated wisdom in whatever amount of time we have lived (to this point); are we foolish, however, to think that what we have accumulated is right in all respects? Not likely. The same with those of the past. Wisdom is the correct application of knowledge; knowledge, however, can be faulty. Thus, wisdom is the correct application of true knowledge.
     

    • Eugene Adkins 6:21 am on August 16, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      I always remember the example of Jesus when someone says a person must be suffering because of sin. A person may suffer due to the sin of others (like Jesus did) but that doesn’t mean we suffer because we sinned personally.

      Sometimes it’s hard to keep this mentality though if we’re in the middle of great mental, physical or spiritual pain…Job had all three situations (and friends) on his back. We can distort wisdom by looking at the past in the way that we want to look at it; hence we don’t always learn from “life’s lessons of the past” the way we should.

      Good thoughts.

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 15, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 6 and 7 

    1. Job expresses the weight of his grief and the pointlessness of it, asking the Lord to relieve him of this anguish because there is no help within him (Job) that can help (6:1-13). When one is afflicted those who come to him ought to come and help, not make accusations that are false (6:14-30). Job’s helplessness in this condition had been experienced for months (7:1-10), and because he has no answers for it he laments loudly and justifies his lament (7:11-16). Job appeals to the Lord to relieve him of this anguish, wondering why he has not forgiven him of his sin (7:17-21).
    2. Application. Job’s friend did not help him at all. He makes an accusation that Job rejects; in fact, Job looks upon the efforts of his friend, Eliphaz (and others soon to follow) as a man who had deceitful intention when he (they) came to him (6:15). **** Job did not know why he had to experience this suffering; in it, he looked for an answer and, finding none, desired that God would “crush him” (6:9). His friends come to “comfort” (i.e., give an answer), and Job rejects the answer given. He appeals to Eliphaz to make it clear what is the sin (actual reason) for which the Lord afflicts him (6:24-30). **** We look for answers continually, and when we feel as if we can’t find them, we wander off into a land we never have been. All the while the Lord calls (Matthew 11:28-30).
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 14, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 4 and 5 

    1. Job’s friend, Eliphaz, begins to reply to Job’s lament. He begins by saying that in his integrity he is to be honest with himself. He who was so available to help others has difficulty applying his own remedy (4:1-6). That which a man sows is that which he reaps – now make an application, Job (4:7-11). Eliphaz had a dream and in this dream it became clear to him that the only righteous one is he who is the Creator; no angel, and more so, no mortal (4:12-21). For those who are afflicted – there is a reason (5:1-7). God is for those who humble themselves before him (5:8-16). Though God corrects those who are in a frame of mind they need not be in, those who come to him (God) will be exalted and then what can anyone do to him who is exalted by God (5:17-27).
    2. Application. Eliphaz attributed to Job a reason for his affliction (4:7-8); moreover, Job needs to understand, affliction does not arise unless it has a reason (5:6). Surely Job was guilty of wrong and he did not own up to it, thus the Lord was punishing him Eliphaz said. **** Wisdom is never exhibited when one expounds without knowledge. So quick people are to make a judgment about someone or something when information available is inadequate. The judgment we exercise is to be made when adequate knowledge of the situation is available, and then done in accordance with a righteous standard (John 7:24). A vast majority of people, on the other hand, don’t look at it that way. They feel the need to go up to the drive up window (as they observe something seen, done, or said), get their order (make a quick evaluation of the situation within the mind), and then drive off (make sure others know what one thinks about it). All this done is inside of three minutes!
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 13, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 3 

    1. Seven days come and go between Job and his friends. For what reason this time was observed I cannot tell, but for whatever reason it existed, it is now broken. Job begins with a lament; he laments that he was even brought forth from the womb, he laments that he is not given the reprieve of death. If there is ever a sentiment of R.I.P. it is in these words of Job.
    2. Application. As you meditate on the words, the weight of the oppression is taking all life and energy from Job. He now sees no purpose to his having come forth from the womb. Whatever he may have seen before this, it was now seen no longer. This is the way life is; our current situation very often dictates how we think of our whole history. Whatever good Job may have done, he erased it from his mind. I can say that I never experienced anything close to what Job had, but for a brief moment or two, I felt the weight of some oppression weighing heavily on and against me. I wanted to do nothing but think about my misery. I knew it then, and I certainly know it now, that to live in that state of mind is, to whatever degree, a state of depression and a state of lost.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 10, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Job 2 

    1. Job having suffered immeasurably; Satan seeks more (2:1-8)! Job’s wife, moved by pity (I presume) calls upon Job to relieve himself of this anguish (2:9-10). Job’s friends from afar come to comfort Job from all the anguish he is experiencing (2:11-13).
    2. Application.  In C-1 Satan appeals to the Lord to relieve Job of those possessions that people prize highly; can you think of something more highly prized in your life than your household goods, recreation toys? How about you children? When one loses both (all) of these, what else does he have? He has his inclination to preserve his own life – it’s the last thing he has. In all this Satan thrust his weight against Job. Job, a man of destitute circumstances, had nothing but his character, his integrity, and an all-important question: WHY (asked throughout the treatise). This question of “why” get us to the question of ‘Where is God when I need him most?”
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 9, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Job 1 

    I have attempted to offer the thoughts from the text that I think is the primary focus of that particular section. It may be that you will have another idea, perhaps even complimentary. A book that I used sparingly, but one that I think is very good for summary thoughts on various sections of Job is the book by Homer Hailey (Commentary on Job, Religious Supply, 1994). 

    1. The time of which the book of Job relates, it is generally thought, would be about the time of Abraham. There is no specificity mentioned in the book. Job was not a Jew. Job was a historical figure. He is mentioned three times outside the book (Ezekiel 14:14, 20 and James 5:11). Because of the New Testament reference he is better known as a patient man. Patient, in the context in which Job experienced, is steadfastness.
    2. Job was a man of great wealth (1:1-3). Job was also a righteous man who loved his children and worshiped God always (1:4-5). A man of great wealth, righteous, but also a man with a target on his back (1:6-12). Job’s experience of catastrophe (1:13-22).
    3. Application. How can one even begin to appreciate what Job experienced? He had ten children and suddenly they are gone! I have never lost a child (let alone ten!), but the pain, I think, would be almost unbearable. Not only did he lose his most prized “possession”, but the material wealth he had was also gone. This is simply incomprehensible! This is the only word that can be used to describe the situation and, by the very use of the word, it describes nothing. Job humbly bows before the Lord and to Him turns (cf. John 6:67-69). How is it that we can do anything less? As Job turned, however, he asked questions that he felt he received no answer to, and this proved to be a significant test for him.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 8, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 9 and 10 

    1. The day came for the Jews to defend themselves against all those who were determined to destroy them. Such preparations had been made by them that when the attempt came to destroy them it was completely thwarted. The event produced a holiday for the Jews; the holiday is Purim.
    2. Application: The theme of the book is clearly that God’s people are preserved by Him who sees all. No matter how intense the effort by some might be to the contrary, when God wants to preserve no man will be successful against Him. **** For some modern “scholars” the book of Esther is a story that has no basis in history, and one reason put forth is that Esther is not even mention by Herodotus (a famous historian of the time). Gleason Archer, however, adequately addresses the “historical dismissal” of Esther at this time (pp. 401-406). Why is it that people want to dismiss some of the books of the Bible? In part it is because something does not correspond with a predisposition; when this occurs it is the historical record that is dismissed, not the predisposition.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 7, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 8 

    1. With Haman now dead, the queen appeals to the king to relieve the Jews of the decree against them. The king grants this request of his queen and then gives his new “right-hand man”, Mordecai, the authority to write what is needed and to execute the order. This occurred during the third month and since there was no electronic means of getting the message out, those of that time had to hurry and get it to and throughout the vast empire of the Medes and Persians in time for the Jews to protect themselves.
    2. Application: As great as both Esther and Mordecai are, it is the last verse of the chapter that is the most significant, I think. Many converted to the way of God. This gave people ample opportunity to hear God’s word and then be educated in things righteous, not to mention to long for a realized hope of the Messiah coming. As those who were converted would have children, and their children also having children, think about the number of additional routes the message of God would travel.
     

    • Eugene Adkins 6:09 pm on August 7, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Interesting how goverments are used by God throughout the Bible to restrict some and support others isn’t it? Even when it came to His own people.

      • John Henson 8:48 am on August 10, 2012 Permalink | Reply

        We’ve had a rather detailed study of Isaiah and Jeremiah for the last year, and we’ve all learned how God is in charge of the world’s governments and they all move in accordance with HIS will. As one commentator wrote, “History is going somewhere.” Indeed.

        • Eugene Adkins 8:54 pm on August 10, 2012 Permalink

          Makes me think of Daniel 4 too. Specially verse 25. Well, I guess a lot more than chapter 4.

        • John Henson 11:08 am on August 11, 2012 Permalink

          Yes, sir. That is certainly true. We have Ezekiel to study first in our quest to cover the Major Prophets, but I’m looking forward to Daniel.

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 6, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 7 

    1. Haman begins to realize that trouble is before him, but he could not have imagined what was about to brew on this day, the second day in which the queen invited both her husband and his high ranking servant to dine. The queen brings her request before the king and by the request’s end Haman has been hooded and a verdict from the king executed.
    2. Application: Apart from what we read in chapters 6 and 7 we don’t know exactly what Haman was thinking; given that we all know the nature of man we have a good idea about the abject fear running through his body. No more did he leave the king’s presence the day before that before the end of the following day his life was taken from him. So quickly did events move that only one word can adequately describe it: blur. Numbers 32:23. It is a challenge to us to live righteously in a world so bent on its own destruction; imagine how much more difficult it would be if we always had to look behind us and also cover our tracks?
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 6 

    1. The fall begins to happen when by the providence of the Lord – having been in operation even before this particular moment – Haman’s thinking in regards to himself gets the better of him (cf. Proverbs 11:2; 16:8). What he had hoped to do to Mordecai and the Jews was now in the beginning stages of being done to him. The king was unaware of this, but Haman’s house was not.
    2. Application: How in the world could Haman allow himself to think so highly of himself as he did? It is not as difficult as you might think. First, in a political environment where achievements are recognized, Haman accomplished much and, thus, knew what worked to get noticed and what did not. Second, if there is no objective moral foundation that is higher than self, then what one thinks ought to be done will be done and it will be done in accordance with one own subjective moral code. Third, in such an environment, one always had to look behind to see that their backside was protected. If Haman did what he did, he knew well that others might (will) do the same. Fourth, perhaps Haman looked upon the king as one who could be maneuvered. Fifth, he had success in all this.
     

    • Eugene Adkins 6:23 am on August 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      “Second, if there is no objective moral foundation that is higher than self, then what one thinks ought to be done will be done and it will be done in accordance with one own subjective moral code.”

      Very good point in relationship to what some people teach and what Haman doing!

      • Ron Thomas 6:42 am on August 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply

        Thank you, Eugene. As you do, I see it playing out effectively in the political world.

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 2, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 5 

    1. With much anxiety, I am sure, the king is approached by his queen. To her pleasant surprise the king receives her warmly. She then unfolds the plan she made to the king (unknown to him) by having a banquet where only three are invited: the king, herself, and Haman. Haman, a man who is on the rise in the political climate of the time, is unaware that he has already reached the pinnacle of his success and in on his way down. It will be a hard fall.
    2. Application: As you consider Haman and his response to the events of the day, reflect for a moment with regard to yourself: have you ever experienced joy to whatever degree, only to have it removed almost immediately because of circumstances that, when looked back on, are related to that joyous experience? You may not have, but I have. It taught me a lesson I have not forgotten; whether I have properly interpreted the reason for the joy, I have also taken note that I lost it (in fact, this happened more than once). Thus, I have approached it much differently since, and more simply. I refuse to allow myself to get “too high” with joy, because when (if) it is removed, the fall is harder. I merely approach the joy and whatever displeasure that follows with a modest approach to the Lord thanking Him for that which is in my life – even when I don’t understand. This is a lesson and an application I have learned.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on August 1, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 4 

    1. The dye was cast and now what were the Jews to do. Mordecai presented himself to all who looked upon him as a man greatly trouble, troubled to the point of receiving no comfort. The queen (Hadassah) learns of this and seeks to take attention away from the man she loved more than any other (because he raised her), but in his refusal to accept she learns what it is all about. Frightened and perplexed about what to do, Mordecai places upon her a responsibility that is monumental.
    2. APPLICATION: For some reason this chapter moved me today. I am not sure why because I have it many time and was not touched like I was today. I suppose it had to do with 4:14. When you think about why you are where you are at in this country and in your current circumstances, have you wondered why? I have. Why am I so fortunate that the Lord saw to it that I was born in the USA, to a solid middle-class family structured environment? Why was I so fortunate that I could go to college, enter the military, enjoy the liberties, and obey the gospel without molestation? I do not know; I can only guess. What I can do and what I can know, however, is that a responsibility has been placed on me to do something (Galatians 6:10), I think I had better make sure I do it.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 31, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 3 

    1. An eventful occasion arose for the empire when a man was elevated from his position of responsibility to a position that was the equivalent of Joseph’s (cf. Genesis 41:41ff). The position required due deference to any who came in contact with him (Haman). Mordecai, however, was not willing to bow before the man; no reason is given, but Mordecai had a conscientious objection to it. Haman was not going to let that stand (if you will); in fact, he appealed to the king that all the Jews who were in the empire be eradicated. This perplexed the people greatly.
    2. Application: The chapter does not make the king look good at all, but it makes him appear as a stooge – one who is led around by those serving under him. Of course, this is not accurate, as we will come to learn, but it does give one the impression. Moreover, what is to be said about Haman, but that he was insecure and radical in his “solution” to the problem of one failing to give due deference. The opportunity to have an amicable solution was put to a blustery wind and blown away.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 30, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 2 

    1. The king now decides to replace his queen with a “beautiful young virgin.” Gathering up “many young women” to Shushan, there was one Jewish girl Hadassah (Esther) who was also present. As was custom the women were scheduled a time with the king; a time in which the king was to value or not value his time with the particular young woman. When Esther went in the king found her to be the most pleasing of all the young women he encountered. To vouch for the choice he made, the queen actually saved the king’s life at a later point (with her uncle Mordecai actually giving the information that saved him).
    2. Application: The weakness of the male, among many, is the female. Whatever bravado he musters she can temper him. Whatever toughness he displays she can soften him. Esther’s virtue was not only her modesty, pleasing disposition, but also her loyalty. She was loyal to the one who raised her and she was loyal to the one to whom she married. Her position was one of great significance and though she did not know it on this early occasion, the saving of the king’s life resulted in the saving of her people as well.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 27, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Esther 1 

    1. The occasion was a festive occasion. The king had present with him the nobles of his court and for seven days there was a festive spirit. The queen also did the same. The festive occasion, however, ended in a sour and embarrassing note for the king. He sought to parade his wife for her beauty, but she refused to be used in such a manner. The embarrassment caused the king to take drastic action, and that action was the disposing of his queen for another, coupled with a new law stating that the man is the master of his house. This new law made clear that no woman of the house was to usurp his authority without consequences.
    2. Application: This notable chapter is a great example of a law “run amuck.” The law of man – whatever it is – has authority, but its authority does not hold sway above a dignity that God has instilled within each person. It may be that a person will compromise their dignity, but a moral law greater than man is to be recognized. More than that, however, is the fact that if a man-made law has to be set in place for a wife to honor her husband, then there is a flaw in that law and in a society that demands as much. Following after God’s ideal the wife and the husband will have a mutual relationship that is honed with respect and a willingness to serve in God-ordained roles.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 26, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Nehemiah 13 

    1. This chapter has Nehemiah, having returned to the king, now back in Jerusalem. What was before him was much corruption. He set himself to cleansing and getting the people back to where they needed to be.
    2. Application: This chapter is a chapter of separation. As we read Ezra 10 and take note of that chapter as a chapter of separation, we see separation in other areas here: a) Separation of association with regard to assembly (13:1-3); b) Separation of association with corrupted people (13:4-9); c) Separation with regard to failing to support the Levites (13:10-13); d) Separation with regard to failure in observing the Sabbath (13:15-22); e) Separation with regard to marriage (13:23-27); f) Separation with regard to those who are properly serving. In all this Nehemiah did it with much anxiety and determination (cf. 13:14, 22b, 29).
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 25, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Nehemiah 12 

    1. “This chapter is made up of two portions: (a) lists of the leading priests and Levites at different periods Neh. 12:1-26: (b) the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem Neh. 12:27-47. This latter passage is certainly from the pen of Nehemiah, and was written probably about 433 B.C. The lists included in (a) are four: (1) the chief priestly and Levitical families which returned to Jerusalem Neh. 12:1-9; (2) the succession of the high priests from Jeshua to Jaddua Neh. 12:10-11; (3) the actual heads of the priestly families in the time of the high priest Joiakim Neh. 12:12-21; (4) the chief Levitical families at the same period Neh. 12:24-26. Of these lists, List 1, List 3, and List 4, may have been drawn up in the time of Nehemiah, but List 2, in its present form, must be much later. See the introduction of the Book of Nehemiah” (Barnes, E-Sword).
    2. Application: A day of thanksgiving by those of Judah has an appropriate quality to it even for our day.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 24, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Nehemiah 11 

    1. With Jerusalem having been rebuilt, with the wall surrounding the city rebuilt, they now needed residents.it was only natural that some would desire to go to the home of their ancestors, but there was a greater need for the community to have people stay in the capital city, the city that houses the religious center.
    2. Application: The one noteworthy thing that stands out to me is the acceptance of doing what is right for the larger group than for self. Reflect on this for a moment. Would you not want to go to the land where your father resided? Surely you would, but as you considered the prospects for the important city – what are you willing to do?
     

    • Eugene Adkins 6:44 am on July 24, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Made me think of, “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 23, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Nehemiah 10 

    1. After the prayer for the nation that had returned from exile – a nation that was but a fraction of itself when the Lord brought them from Egyptian bondage – that same nation had now committed itself to do those things the Lord outlined long ago.
    2. Application: Making a commitment is something that many people do, but fail to hold on to. I have heard and observed through the years people expressing a strong desire with regard to themselves, a determination to do they know needs to be done. They are convinced that they have the necessary “stick-to-it” attitude that will pull them though and even over the waves they will experience; they made a commitment. One’s determination, however, can be clouded with distractions and when that occurs then one’s initial determination begins to “grow” weak. Ultimately, then, for some, the commitment is lost. That which is necessary to hold on to a commitment are the following: a) a deep abiding trust in the Lord, b) a volition that refuses to allow outside distraction to intercede, c) brethren to exhort us along the way.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 20, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    Nehemiah 9 

    1. Later in the 7th month the assembly gathered and offered a prayer to the Lord that recounted in brief the history of their transgressions, and how merciful the Lord was to them as a nation. As they reflected on their current circumstances they appealed to the Lord for relief and a reconfirmation from them to Him they would be loyal.
    2. The nation of Israel had a national covenant with the Lord (Exodus 19:4-6). But, as a nation, they did not keep that covenant. Thus, as a nation they appealed to the Lord for His mercy. Under the new covenant it is the individual who replaces the physical nation; under the new, it is the individual who must appeal to the Lord for mercy. There is no national leader to whom we can appeal to lead us, but there is an eternal Leader to whom appeal has been made when we go to Him.
     

  • Ron Thomas 5:00 am on July 19, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Daily Bible Reading (Old Testament)   

    After the wall had been built the gates… 

    1. After the wall had been built, the gates installed, Nehemiah sets over the city a governor with particular instructions (7:1-4). Nehemiah also looks into a list of those who returned from Babylon; he took note of not only who returned, but that some were not able to support their contention with regard to genealogy. *** A large gathering of the people was present as the Book of the Law was read by Ezra. It was during the 7th month that they gathered and heard the Book of the Law read; moreover, they observed the occasion to dwell on booths. So neglected was this (8:17), that it was worthy of a special note. “When it is said that since the days of Jeshua had not the children of Israel done so, we must understand, not that there had been no celebration of the feast of tabernacles since that time not even that there had been no celebration accompanied by ‘dwelling in booths,’ but only that there had been no such joyous and general celebration of the festival (comp. what is said in 2Kings 23:22 and 2Chronicles 35:18 of the passover kept in Josiah’s eighteenth year). It is the very great gladness that is especially insisted upon” (Pulpit, E-Sword).
    2. Application: In 7:64 we notice that some could not serve the Lord in a particular way (as Levite priest) because they were unable to support the heritage. So important was God’s will to them they were not even going to think of compromising what he said. How unlike that for a great many people today, isn’t it? *** What kind of reverence do you have for God’s word (cf. 8:1-5)? Is your reverence to such a degree that when you hear it read (from the pulpit for instance) that your ears are attentive? Or, are you still “fumbling” around tending to other matters because you know this is a formality of the worship hour? Tuning our ears to hear to the holy word of God is very important, but after that if we tend to other matters without regard to and for God’s word, then what?
     

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