Job 22:27

You will pray to Him, and He will hear you, and you will fulfill your vows.

Study Bible

You will pray to Him
This phrase emphasizes the personal relationship between the believer and God. The Hebrew root for "pray" is "פָּלַל" (palal), which means to intercede or to make supplication. In the context of Job, this highlights the importance of direct communication with God, a privilege granted to those who seek Him earnestly. Historically, prayer has been a central practice in the life of the faithful, serving as a means to express dependence on God and to seek His guidance and intervention.

and He will hear you
The assurance that "He will hear you" underscores God's attentiveness to the prayers of the righteous. The Hebrew word for "hear" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just hearing but also understanding and responding. This reflects the biblical truth that God is not distant or indifferent but is actively engaged in the lives of His people. Scripturally, this is consistent with passages like Psalm 34:15, which affirm that the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their cry.

and you will fulfill your vows
The concept of fulfilling vows is deeply rooted in the Hebrew tradition, where vows were solemn promises made to God, often in response to His blessings or deliverance. The Hebrew word for "vows" is "נֶדֶר" (neder), which signifies a binding promise. In the historical context of the Old Testament, fulfilling vows was a demonstration of faithfulness and gratitude towards God. This phrase encourages believers to live lives of integrity and commitment, honoring their promises to God as a reflection of their devotion and trust in His faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, known for his immense suffering and unwavering faith.

2. Eliphaz the Temanite
One of Job's three friends who visit him to offer counsel. In Job 22, Eliphaz speaks to Job, suggesting that Job's suffering is due to his sin and urging him to return to God.

3. Teman
A region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz is identified as a Temanite, indicating his background and possibly his wisdom.

4. God
The central divine figure in the Book of Job, who ultimately restores Job after his trials. God is portrayed as sovereign and just, even when His ways are beyond human understanding.

5. Prayer and Vows
The act of communicating with God and making commitments to Him. In the context of Job 22:27, prayer is a means of seeking God's favor and fulfilling vows is an expression of faithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Prayer is a direct line of communication with God. It is both a privilege and a responsibility for believers to engage in regular prayer, trusting that God hears and responds.

God's Faithfulness in Hearing
God is attentive to the prayers of His people. This assurance should encourage believers to approach Him with confidence and sincerity.

The Importance of Integrity
Fulfilling vows made to God is a demonstration of integrity and faithfulness. Believers are called to honor their commitments to God as an expression of their devotion.

Repentance and Restoration
Eliphaz's counsel, though flawed in its assumptions about Job, highlights the biblical principle that repentance leads to restoration. Believers should seek to maintain a repentant heart before God.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Even when circumstances are challenging, believers are encouraged to trust in God's sovereign plan, knowing that He is just and good.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 22:27 encourage us to view the practice of prayer in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are fulfilling our vows to God, and why is this important?

3. How does the assurance that God hears our prayers impact our relationship with Him?

4. What can we learn from Eliphaz's counsel to Job about the importance of discernment in giving and receiving advice?

5. How can we apply the principles of repentance and restoration in our own spiritual journey, especially in times of trial?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 66:19-20
This passage emphasizes that God listens to the prayers of the righteous, similar to the assurance given in Job 22:27.

James 5:16
Highlights the power of a righteous person's prayer, reinforcing the idea that God hears and responds to those who are faithful.

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
Discusses the importance of fulfilling vows made to God, aligning with the call in Job 22:27 to fulfill one's vows.