God’s Justice and the Problem of the Wicked’s Prosperity

Jesus-Centered Journey: The Bible in 365 Days

Day 12: Job 18-21 (Bildad’s Attack and Job’s Response)
Theme: God’s Justice and the Problem of the Wicked’s Prosperity

Daily Reading:

Job 18-21 (NLT)

Reflection:

Bildad intensifies his accusations against Job, attacking his character and claiming that Job’s suffering proves God’s judgment on his sin. He says, “Surely the light of the wicked will be snuffed out. The sparks of their fire will not glow” (Job 18:5). Bildad paints a rigid, black-and-white view of suffering, leaving no room for mystery in God’s ways.

Job counters Bildad’s accusations with a sharp critique of his theology. In Job 19, he delivers one of the most profound declarations of hope in Scripture. Amid his despair, Job proclaims, “But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last” (Job 19:25). This declaration foreshadows Jesus Christ, the living Redeemer who conquers sin and death and stands as the ultimate hope for humanity.

In Chapters 20-21, Job addresses a common frustration: Why do the wicked prosper while the righteous suffer? Job observes, “The wicked prosper in their homes and grow rich” (Job 21:7). This tension challenges believers to trust God’s justice, even when it seems delayed. Job reminds us that God’s justice will prevail in His perfect timing, even when life feels unfair.

Historical Insight:

Early church fathers, such as Tertullian and Augustine, viewed Job’s declaration in Job 19:25 as one of the clearest Old Testament anticipations of Christ. Tertullian wrote, “Job’s Redeemer is no mere hope, but the very Word of God made flesh, who redeems mankind with His life.”

John Calvin emphasized that Job’s hope in a living Redeemer transcends his suffering. He taught believers to look beyond temporal circumstances to eternal justice. Calvin stated, “Faith finds its anchor in Christ, the Redeemer, who will stand as the ultimate vindicator of the faithful.”

Call to Action:

Reflect on areas in your life where God’s justice feels delayed. Surrender those frustrations to Him, trusting in His perfect timing and eternal justice.

Personal Reflection Question:

How does Job’s declaration, “I know that my Redeemer lives,” inspire you to trust God’s justice and hope in His promises?

Group Reflection Question:

What can we learn from Job’s response to Bildad about holding onto faith when others question or misinterpret our struggles?

Hope and Promise

Job’s story reminds us that God’s justice may not always align with our timing, but it remains certain. Job’s bold proclamation, “I know that my Redeemer lives,” points us to Jesus, who secures justice and restoration for all who trust in Him. Through Christ, we find hope that transcends life’s challenges and assurance that God will ultimately make all things right.

Jesus-Centered Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You are our living Redeemer. Thank You for standing as our hope and our advocate, even in life’s most challenging moments. Help us trust Your justice and surrender our frustrations to You. Strengthen our faith to declare, like Job, that You are alive and working for our good. Teach us to reflect Your grace and compassion to others, especially in their struggles. In Your holy name, Amen.