You have granted me life and loving devotion, and Your care has preserved my spirit. You have granted meThe phrase "You have granted me" reflects the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and benevolence. The Hebrew root for "granted" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give, bestow, or permit. This word emphasizes the understanding that life itself is a gift from God, not something earned or deserved. In the context of Job's suffering, this acknowledgment is profound, as it shows Job's recognition of God's ultimate authority and generosity, even amidst his trials. life
The word "life" in Hebrew is "חַיִּים" (chayim), which signifies not just physical existence but a dynamic, vibrant state of being. In the ancient Near Eastern context, life was seen as a precious and divine gift, intricately connected to God's breath and spirit. Job's mention of life here underscores the value he places on the existence God has given him, despite his current afflictions. and loving devotion
"Loving devotion" is translated from the Hebrew word "חֶסֶד" (chesed), which is a rich term encompassing love, kindness, mercy, and faithfulness. It is a covenantal term, often used to describe God's steadfast love and loyalty to His people. In Job's context, this phrase highlights his belief in God's enduring love and commitment, even when circumstances seem to contradict it. It is a reminder of the relational aspect of God's character, which remains constant through trials. and Your care
The phrase "and Your care" comes from the Hebrew "פְּקֻדָּה" (pekudah), which can mean oversight, visitation, or attention. This word suggests a personal and attentive involvement of God in Job's life. It implies that God is not distant or indifferent but is actively watching over and tending to Job's needs. This assurance of divine care is a source of comfort and strength for Job, reinforcing his trust in God's providence. has preserved my spirit
"Has preserved my spirit" speaks to the sustaining power of God. The Hebrew word for "preserved" is "שָׁמַר" (shamar), meaning to keep, guard, or protect. "Spirit" is translated from "רוּחַ" (ruach), which can mean breath, wind, or spirit, indicating the life force within a person. This phrase conveys the idea that despite the physical and emotional turmoil Job is experiencing, God's protective care has maintained his inner being. It reflects a deep-seated faith that God's presence is sufficient to uphold him through any adversity. Persons / Places / Events 1. JobA 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. GodThe Creator and Sustainer of life, who is in dialogue with Job throughout the book. God’s sovereignty and justice are central themes in Job’s account. 3. UzThe land where Job lived. It is often associated with the region east of Israel, though its exact location is uncertain. 4. Job's FriendsEliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who visit Job to offer counsel and comfort, though their advice often misunderstands Job’s situation and God’s character. 5. Suffering and RestorationThe events of Job’s life, including his profound suffering and eventual restoration, serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of divine justice and human suffering. Teaching Points Acknowledgment of God’s SovereigntyRecognize that life itself is a gift from God, and His sovereignty extends over all aspects of our existence. Understanding Divine CareReflect on how God’s loving devotion and care are evident in both the good and challenging times of life. Perseverance in TrialsEmulate Job’s perseverance and faith, trusting in God’s ultimate justice and restoration. Gratitude for God’s PreservationCultivate a heart of gratitude for God’s ongoing preservation and sustenance of our spirit. Trust in God’s Loving DevotionTrust that God’s loving devotion is constant, even when circumstances seem overwhelming or confusing. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Job 10:12 reflect Job’s understanding of God’s role in his life, and how can this perspective influence our view of God’s involvement in our daily lives? 2. In what ways can we see God’s loving devotion and care in our own lives, especially during times of suffering or uncertainty? 3. How do the themes of life and preservation in Job 10:12 connect with the creation account in Genesis 2, and what does this tell us about the nature of God? 4. How can the example of Job’s perseverance encourage us in our own trials, and what other biblical figures demonstrate similar faithfulness? 5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God’s preservation of your spirit. How can sharing this testimony encourage others in their faith journey? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 139This psalm echoes the themes of God’s intimate knowledge and care for human life, similar to Job’s acknowledgment of God’s preservation. Lamentations 3The steadfast love and mercies of God are highlighted, paralleling Job’s recognition of God’s loving devotion. Genesis 2The creation of life and the breath of God that sustains the spirit connect to Job’s acknowledgment of God granting life. Isaiah 46God’s sustaining power and care from birth to old age reflect the preservation of spirit that Job mentions. James 5The perseverance of Job is highlighted as an example of steadfast faith amidst trials, connecting to the broader account of Job’s life. People JobPlaces UzTopics Care, Favor, Favour, Grace, Granted, Hast, Inspection, Kept, Kind, Kindness, Love, Loving, Lovingkindness, Preserved, Providence, Safe, Spirit, Steadfast, Visitation, WatchedDictionary of Bible Themes Job 10:12 5067 suicide
6667 grace, in OT
8291 kindness
8491 watchfulness, divine Job 10:2-22 8615 prayer, doubts Job 10:8-12 5655 birth Library The Sweet Uses of Adversity
Now, I propose to address myself to the two classes of persons who are making use of this question. First, I shall speak to the tried saint; and then I shall speak to the seeking sinner, who has been seeking peace and pardon through Christ, but who has not as yet found it, but, on the contrary, has been buffeted by the law, and driven away from the mercy-seat in despair. I. First, then, to THE CHILD OF GOD. I have--I know I have--in this great assembly, some who have come to Job's position. They …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 5: 1859St Gregory the Great (Ad 540-604)
PART I Gregory was born at Rome, of a noble and wealthy family, in the year 540. In his youth he engaged in public business, and he rose to be proctor of Rome, which was one of the chief offices under the government. In this office he was much beloved and respected by the people. But about the age of thirty-five, a great change took place in his life. He resolved to forsake the pursuit of worldly honours, and spent all his wealth in founding seven monasteries. He gave up his family house at Rome …
J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation Whether God Works in Every Agent?
Objection 1: It would seem that God does not work in every agent. For we must not attribute any insufficiency to God. If therefore God works in every agent, He works sufficiently in each one. Hence it would be superfluous for the created agent to work at all. Objection 2: Further, the same work cannot proceed at the same time from two sources; as neither can one and the same movement belong to two movable things. Therefore if the creature's operation is from God operating in the creature, it cannot …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Whether the Damned are in Material Darkness?
Objection 1: It would seem that the damned are not in material darkness. For commenting on Job 10:22, "But everlasting horror dwelleth," Gregory says (Moral. ix): "Although that fire will give no light for comfort, yet, that it may torment the more it does give light for a purpose, for by the light of its flame the wicked will see their followers whom they have drawn thither from the world." Therefore the darkness there is not material. Objection 2: Further, the damned see their own punishment, for …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Whether the Fire of Hell is of the Same Species as Ours?
Objection 1: It would seem that this fire is not of the same species as the corporeal fire which we see. For Augustine says (De Civ. Dei xx, 16): "In my opinion no man knows of what kind is the everlasting fire, unless the Spirit of God has revealed it to anyone." But all or nearly all know the nature of this fire of ours. Therefore that fire is not of the same species as this. Objection 2: Further, Gregory commenting on Job 10:26, "A fire that is not kindled shall devour him," says (Moral. xv): …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica That a Man Ought not to Reckon Himself Worthy of Consolation, but More Worthy of Chastisement
O Lord, I am not worthy of Thy consolation, nor of any spiritual visitation; and therefore Thou dealest justly with me, when Thou leavest me poor and desolate. For if I were able to pour forth tears like the sea, still should I not be worthy of Thy consolation. Therefore am I nothing worthy save to be scourged and punished, because I have grievously and many a time offended Thee, and in many things have greatly sinned. Therefore, true account being taken, I am not worthy even of the least of Thy …
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ The Sad Case of a Relapse into Known and Deliberate Sin, after Solemn Acts Op Dedication to God and Some Progress Made in Religion.
1. Unthought of relapses may happen.--2. And bring the soul into a miserable case.--3. Yet the case is not desperate.--4. The backslider urged immediately to return, by deep humiliation before God for so aggravated an offence.--5. By renewed regards to the divine mercy in Christ.--6. By an open profession of repentance, where the crime hath given public offence.--7. Falls to be reviewed for future caution.--8. The chapter concludes with a prayer for the use of one who hath fallen into gross sins, …
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul The Fourth Continental Journey.
1842-3. In the journey which now lay before them, John and Martha Yeardley were about to explore a part of Europe hitherto untried,--the province of Languedoc, conspicuous in past ages for its superior enlightenment, but now, owing to the temporary mastery of error, wrapt in ignorance and gloom. In this mission, the opportunities which they found for reviving and gathering together the scattered embers of truth, were nearly confined to social intercourse; in seeking occasions for which, they availed …
John Yeardley—Memoir and Diary of John Yeardley, Minister of the Gospel Whether Christ Went Down into the Hell of the Lost?
Objection 1: It would seem that Christ went down into the hell of the lost, because it is said by the mouth of Divine Wisdom (Ecclus. 24:45): "I will penetrate to all the lower parts of the earth." But the hell of the lost is computed among the lower parts of the earth according to Ps. 62:10: "They shall go into the lower parts of the earth." Therefore Christ who is the Wisdom of God, went down even into the hell of the lost. Objection 2: Further, Peter says (Acts 2:24) that "God hath raised up Christ, …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica In the Work of the Redemption of Man, not Only the Mercy, but Also the Justice, of God is Displayed.
In the work of the Redemption of man, not only the mercy, but also the justice, of God is displayed. 15. Man therefore was lawfully delivered up, but mercifully set free. Yet mercy was shown in such a way that a kind of justice was not lacking even in his liberation, since, as was most fitting for man's recovery, it was part of the mercy of the liberator to employ justice rather than power against man's enemy. For what could man, the slave of sin, fast bound by the devil, do of himself to recover …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux How the Whole and the Sick are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 13.) Differently to be admonished are the whole and the sick. For the whole are to be admonished that they employ the health of the body to the health of the soul: lest, if they turn the grace of granted soundness to the use of iniquity, they be made worse by the gift, and afterwards merit the severer punishments, in that they fear not now to use amiss the more bountiful gifts of God. The whole are to be admonished that they despise not the opportunity of winning health for ever. …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great How is Christ, as the Life, to be Applied by a Soul that Misseth God's Favour and Countenance.
The sixth case, that we shall speak a little to, is a deadness, occasioned by the Lord's hiding of himself, who is their life, and "the fountain of life," Ps. xxxvi. 9, and "whose loving-kindness is better than life," Ps. lxiii. 3, and "in whose favour is their life," Ps. xxx. 5. A case, which the frequent complaints of the saints manifest to be rife enough, concerning which we shall, 1. Shew some of the consequences of the Lord's hiding his face, whereby the soul's case will appear. 2. Shew the …
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive.
1. Men either idolatrous, profane, hypocritical, or regenerate. 1. Idolaters void of righteousness, full of unrighteousness, and hence in the sight of God altogether wretched and undone. 2. Still a great difference in the characters of men. This difference manifested. 1. In the gifts of God. 2. In the distinction between honorable and base. 3. In the blessings of he present life. 3. All human virtue, how praiseworthy soever it may appear, is corrupted. 1. By impurity of heart. 2. By the absence of …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion The Mercy of God
The next attribute is God's goodness or mercy. Mercy is the result and effect of God's goodness. Psa 33:5. So then this is the next attribute, God's goodness or mercy. The most learned of the heathens thought they gave their god Jupiter two golden characters when they styled him good and great. Both these meet in God, goodness and greatness, majesty and mercy. God is essentially good in himself and relatively good to us. They are both put together in Psa 119:98. Thou art good, and doest good.' This …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity Job
The book of Job is one of the great masterpieces of the world's literature, if not indeed the greatest. The author was a man of superb literary genius, and of rich, daring, and original mind. The problem with which he deals is one of inexhaustible interest, and his treatment of it is everywhere characterized by a psychological insight, an intellectual courage, and a fertility and brilliance of resource which are nothing less than astonishing. Opinion has been divided as to how the book should be …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Job 10:12 NIVJob 10:12 NLTJob 10:12 ESVJob 10:12 NASBJob 10:12 KJV
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