Job 22:29

When men are brought low and you say, 'Lift them up!' then He will save the lowly.

Study Bible

When men are brought low
This phrase speaks to the universal human experience of humility and suffering. The Hebrew root for "brought low" is "שָׁפֵל" (shafel), which conveys being humbled or reduced in status. Historically, this reflects the trials faced by individuals in ancient times, often seen as a test of faith or character. In the broader scriptural context, being brought low is not just a physical or social condition but a spiritual state that opens one to divine intervention and grace.

and you say, ‘Lift them up!’
The call to "Lift them up!" is an exhortation to encourage and support those who are downtrodden. The Hebrew word "רוּם" (rum) means to raise or exalt. This reflects a proactive stance of faith, where believers are called to be instruments of God's compassion and restoration. In the historical context of Job, this is a radical call to action, emphasizing the power of words and faith in transforming lives. It aligns with the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor and acting as a conduit of God's mercy.

then He will save
The assurance "He will save" underscores God's role as the ultimate deliverer. The Hebrew word "יָשַׁע" (yasha) means to deliver or rescue. This promise is central to the biblical narrative, where God consistently acts as the savior of those who are oppressed or in distress. In the context of Job, it reassures the faithful that divine salvation is available to those who trust in God and act righteously. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness throughout history.

the lowly
The term "lowly" refers to those who are humble or afflicted. The Hebrew "שָׁפָל" (shaphal) conveys a sense of humility and meekness. In the biblical context, the lowly are often those who are favored by God, as their humility makes them receptive to His grace. This reflects a recurring theme in Scripture, where God exalts the humble and brings down the proud. It is an encouragement to embrace humility as a virtue that aligns with God's will and opens the door to His blessings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
- A man of great faith and patience, who endured immense suffering and loss. His account is a profound exploration of human suffering and divine sovereignty.

2. Eliphaz the Temanite
- One of Job's three friends who attempts to explain Job's suffering by suggesting it is due to sin. He is the speaker in Job 22.

3. Teman
- A region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz, being a Temanite, is considered a man of wisdom.

4. God
- The ultimate authority and source of salvation, who is sovereign over all circumstances.

5. The Lowly
- Those who are humble or brought low, either by circumstances or by their own humility.

Teaching Points

The Power of Humility
Humility is a key virtue in the Christian life. It positions us to receive God's grace and intervention.

God's Response to the Lowly
God is attentive to those who are humble or brought low. He promises to lift them up and provide salvation.

Encouragement in Community
As believers, we are called to encourage and uplift those who are struggling, reflecting God's heart for the lowly.

Trust in Divine Timing
God's timing in lifting us up may not align with our expectations, but His timing is perfect and purposeful.

The Role of Intercession
Speaking words of faith and encouragement over others can be a powerful form of intercession, inviting God's saving power into their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Job 22:29, where Eliphaz speaks, influence our understanding of the verse?

2. In what ways can we practice humility in our daily lives, and how does this align with the teachings of James 4:10 and 1 Peter 5:6?

3. How can we actively participate in lifting others up within our community, and what impact might this have on both them and us?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt "brought low." How did you experience God's lifting or salvation in that situation?

5. How does the principle of God exalting the humble challenge or encourage you in your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 4:10
- This verse speaks about humbling oneself before the Lord, which aligns with the theme of God lifting up the lowly.

1 Peter 5:6
- Encourages believers to humble themselves under God's mighty hand, so that He may exalt them in due time.

Psalm 147:6
- Highlights God's care for the humble and His opposition to the wicked.

Proverbs 3:34
- States that God gives grace to the humble, reinforcing the idea of divine favor towards the lowly.

Matthew 23:12
- Jesus teaches that those who humble themselves will be exalted, echoing the principle found in Job 22:29.