His strength is depleted, and calamity is ready at his side. His strength is depletedThe Hebrew word for "strength" here is "אֹנוֹ" (ono), which can also be translated as "vigor" or "might." In the context of the Book of Job, this phrase signifies the diminishing power and vitality of a person who is under divine judgment or suffering. Bildad, the speaker in this chapter, is suggesting that Job's physical and perhaps spiritual strength is waning due to his perceived sinfulness. From a conservative Christian perspective, this can be seen as a reminder of human frailty and the need for reliance on God's strength. The depletion of strength serves as a metaphor for the spiritual exhaustion that can occur when one is distant from God or when one is enduring trials without divine support. and calamity is ready at his side Persons / Places / Events 1. Bildad the ShuhiteOne of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Bildad is speaking, offering his perspective on the fate of the wicked. 2. Job The central figure of the book, a man of great faith and patience who endures severe trials and suffering. 3. Calamity Represents the inevitable disaster or misfortune that Bildad claims will befall the wicked. 4. Strength In this context, it refers to the physical and perhaps moral or spiritual vigor that is said to be depleted in the wicked. 5. The Land of Uz The setting of the Book of Job, traditionally considered to be in the region of Edom or northern Arabia. Teaching Points The Misinterpretation of SufferingBildad's speech reflects a common misunderstanding that suffering is always a direct result of personal sin. This perspective can lead to judgmental attitudes and a lack of compassion. The Reality of Calamity Calamity is a part of the human experience, but it is not always indicative of one's moral or spiritual state. Christians are called to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the face of adversity. Strength in Weakness While Bildad speaks of depleted strength, the New Testament teaches that God's power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Believers can find strength in Christ, even when their own resources are exhausted. The Importance of Compassionate Counsel Bildad's harsh words serve as a reminder of the importance of offering compassionate and empathetic support to those who are suffering, rather than quick judgments or simplistic explanations. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Bildad's perspective on suffering and calamity compare to the overall message of the Book of Job?2. In what ways can we ensure that our counsel to others is compassionate and biblically sound, rather than judgmental like Bildad's? 3. How can the themes of strength and weakness in Job 18:12 be related to the teachings of the New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul? 4. What are some practical ways to find strength in God when facing personal calamity or depletion of resources? 5. How do other biblical passages, such as those in Psalms and Proverbs, provide a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between righteousness, wickedness, and suffering? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 73This psalm explores the apparent prosperity of the wicked and the struggles of the righteous, similar to the themes Bildad addresses. Proverbs 24:16 This verse contrasts the fall of the wicked with the resilience of the righteous, providing a broader biblical perspective on suffering and calamity. Isaiah 40:29-31 These verses speak of God giving strength to the weary, offering hope and a counterpoint to Bildad's assertion about the depletion of strength.
People Bildad, JobPlaces UzTopics Calamity, Destruction, Disaster, Fall, Falling, Falls, Famished, Feeble, Footstep, Hungerbitten, Hunger-bitten, Hungry, Ravenous, Ready, Sorrow, Strength, Stumbling, Trouble, WaitingDictionary of Bible Themes Job 18:5-16Library Whether the Fire of Hell is Beneath the Earth?Objection 1: It would seem that this fire is not beneath the earth. For it is said of the damned (Job 18:18), "And God shall remove him out of the globe [Douay: 'world']." Therefore the fire whereby the damned will be punished is not beneath the earth but outside the globe. Objection 2: Further, nothing violent or accidental can be everlasting. But this fire will be in hell for ever. Therefore it will be there, not by force but naturally. Now fire cannot be under the earth save by violence. Therefore … Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Whether the Devil is the Head of all the Wicked? The Difference Between the Two Testaments. Whether the Fire of Hell is of the Same Species as Ours? The Desire of the Righteous Granted; A Few Sighs from Hell; Job Links Job 18:12 NIVJob 18:12 NLT Job 18:12 ESV Job 18:12 NASB Job 18:12 KJV Job 18:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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