Job 31:18

though from my youth I reared him as would a father, and from my mother's womb I guided the widow--

Study Bible

though from my youth
The phrase "from my youth" indicates a lifelong commitment and consistency in behavior. In Hebrew, the word for "youth" (נְעוּרַי, ne'uray) often refers to the early stages of life, suggesting that Job's actions were not a recent development but a deeply ingrained part of his character. This highlights the importance of establishing righteous habits early in life, as they form the foundation for a life of integrity and service to others.

I reared him as would a father
The imagery of rearing "as would a father" speaks to the nurturing and protective role that Job assumed. The Hebrew verb used here (גָּדַל, gadal) implies growth and development, suggesting that Job took an active role in the upbringing and care of those in need, much like a father would for his children. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and responsibility for the vulnerable, emphasizing the call for believers to act as caretakers and mentors within their communities.

and from my mother's womb
The phrase "from my mother's womb" underscores the idea of an inherent, almost instinctual, compassion and sense of duty. In Hebrew culture, the womb is often associated with the beginning of life and innate qualities. This suggests that Job's compassion was not merely learned but was an integral part of his being, instilled in him from the very start. It serves as a reminder of the divine imprint of compassion and justice that God places within each person.

I guided the widow
To "guide the widow" implies providing direction, support, and protection. The Hebrew verb (נָחָה, nachah) used here conveys leading or guiding with care and intention. Widows in ancient times were among the most vulnerable, often lacking the protection and provision of a husband. Job's commitment to guiding them reflects the biblical mandate to care for the marginalized and defenseless, embodying the heart of God for justice and mercy. This serves as an inspiration for believers to actively seek out and support those who are in need, following the example of Christ's love and compassion.

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. The Fatherless
Refers to orphans or those without a father figure, whom Job claims to have cared for as a father would.

3. The Widow
Represents women who have lost their husbands, often vulnerable and in need of protection and support in ancient society.

4. Job's Youth
Indicates the period in Job's life when he began practicing righteousness and caring for the needy, suggesting a lifelong commitment to these values.

5. Job's Birth
Symbolizes the beginning of Job's life, emphasizing that his compassion and guidance for the widow were inherent from the start.

Teaching Points

Commitment to Righteousness
Job's lifelong dedication to caring for the vulnerable serves as a model for believers to commit to righteous living from an early age.

Compassionate Leadership
Just as Job acted as a father to the fatherless, Christians are called to lead with compassion and provide guidance to those in need.

Support for the Vulnerable
The care for widows and orphans is a recurring biblical theme, urging believers to actively support and protect the most vulnerable in society.

Consistency in Faith
Job's actions from youth to adulthood demonstrate the importance of consistent faith and practice, encouraging believers to maintain their commitment to God's commands throughout their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's example of caring for the fatherless and widows challenge our current approach to social justice and community service?

2. In what ways can we, as modern believers, emulate Job's lifelong commitment to righteousness and compassion?

3. How do the teachings in James 1:27 and Isaiah 1:17 reinforce the actions described by Job in this verse?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our faith is consistently reflected in our actions, as demonstrated by Job?

5. How can understanding God's character as a defender of the vulnerable (Psalm 68:5) inspire us to take action in our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 1:27
This verse highlights the importance of caring for orphans and widows as a pure and faultless religion before God, echoing Job's actions.

Psalm 68:5
Describes God as a father to the fatherless and a defender of widows, aligning with Job's role in providing care and protection.

Isaiah 1:17
Calls for defending the oppressed, taking up the cause of the fatherless, and pleading the case of the widow, which parallels Job's lifelong commitment.