Job 15:20
A wicked man writhes in pain all his days; only a few years are reserved for the ruthless.
A wicked man
The term "wicked" in Hebrew is "רָשָׁע" (rasha), which denotes someone who is morally wrong, guilty, or an enemy of God. In the context of the Book of Job, this term is used to describe those who live in opposition to God's laws and principles. The wicked man is often portrayed as one who is self-centered, disregarding the divine order and justice. This phrase sets the stage for understanding the consequences of living a life contrary to God's will, emphasizing the moral and spiritual decay that accompanies such a lifestyle.

writhes in pain
The Hebrew word for "writhes" is "מְחוֹלֵל" (mecholel), which conveys a sense of twisting or contorting in agony. This vivid imagery suggests not only physical suffering but also emotional and spiritual turmoil. The pain experienced by the wicked is not just a momentary affliction but a continual state of distress. This reflects the biblical principle that sin leads to suffering, and those who reject God's ways will inevitably face the consequences of their actions.

all his days
This phrase underscores the perpetual nature of the wicked man's suffering. It is not limited to a single event or period but extends throughout his entire life. The constancy of this pain serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of sin and the absence of peace for those who live apart from God. In a broader theological context, it highlights the contrast between the fleeting pleasures of sin and the eternal peace found in righteousness.

only a few years
The brevity of life is a recurring theme in Scripture, and this phrase emphasizes the short-lived nature of the wicked man's existence. The Hebrew word "שָׁנִים" (shanim) for "years" suggests a limited time frame, reinforcing the idea that the wicked will not endure. This serves as a sobering reminder of the temporal nature of earthly life and the importance of living in accordance with God's will.

are reserved
The concept of "reserved" in Hebrew is "צָפוּן" (tzafun), which implies something that is hidden or stored up. This suggests that the consequences of the wicked man's actions are predetermined and inevitable. It reflects the biblical understanding of divine justice, where God, in His sovereignty, ensures that each person reaps what they sow. The reserved years for the wicked are marked by divine judgment and the fulfillment of God's righteous decrees.

for the ruthless
The term "ruthless" in Hebrew is "עָרִיץ" (aritz), which describes someone who is violent, oppressive, and devoid of compassion. This word paints a picture of a person who exploits others for personal gain, showing no regard for justice or mercy. The ruthless are often seen as the epitome of human depravity, and their actions are in direct opposition to the character of God. This phrase serves as a warning that those who live by such principles will ultimately face divine retribution.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, a man of great faith and integrity who undergoes severe trials and suffering.

2. Eliphaz the Temanite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him but ends up accusing him of wrongdoing. Eliphaz is the speaker in Job 15.

3. Teman
A region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz is identified as a Temanite, suggesting he is considered wise.

4. The Wicked Man
A general reference to those who live in opposition to God's ways, characterized by their suffering and ultimate downfall.

5. The Ruthless
Those who are cruel and oppressive, often associated with the wicked in biblical literature.
Teaching Points
The Consequences of Wickedness
The verse highlights the inevitable suffering that comes from living a life opposed to God's ways. It serves as a warning to avoid wickedness and embrace righteousness.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Power
The "few years" reserved for the ruthless remind us that earthly power and success are fleeting. True security and peace come from a life aligned with God's will.

The Importance of Integrity
Job's account, in contrast to the wicked described by Eliphaz, underscores the value of maintaining integrity and faithfulness even amidst suffering.

God's Justice
The verse reassures believers of God's ultimate justice. While the wicked may seem to prosper temporarily, their end is one of pain and judgment.

Reflection on Personal Conduct
This passage encourages self-examination of one's actions and attitudes, urging believers to live in a way that honors God and reflects His righteousness.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Eliphaz's description of the wicked man's suffering in Job 15:20 reflect the broader biblical theme of divine justice?

2. In what ways can the temporary nature of the ruthless man's power serve as a reminder for us in our daily lives?

3. How does the contrast between Job's integrity and the wickedness described by Eliphaz challenge us to evaluate our own faithfulness to God?

4. What other biblical passages reinforce the idea that wickedness leads to suffering and eventual judgment?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Job 15:20 to cultivate a life of righteousness and avoid the pitfalls of wickedness?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Psalm 37
This Psalm contrasts the fate of the wicked with the righteous, emphasizing that the wicked will ultimately face destruction while the righteous will be upheld by God.

Proverbs 11:21
This verse assures that the wicked will not go unpunished, reinforcing the idea that wickedness leads to suffering and eventual judgment.

Isaiah 57:20-21
These verses describe the wicked as being like a troubled sea, unable to find peace, which parallels the restless suffering mentioned in Job 15:20.

Romans 6:23
This New Testament verse highlights the consequences of sin, which is death, but contrasts it with the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
The Consequences of Evil-DoingR. Green Job 15:20-30
Warnings from the Wisdom of ExperienceE. Johnson Job 15:20-35
People
Eliphaz, Job
Places
Uz
Topics
Allotted, Cruel, Evil, Hidden, Laid, Numbered, Oppressor, Pain, Paining, Ruthless, Stored, Suffers, Terrible, Torment, Tormented, Travaileth, Violent, Wicked, Writhes
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Job 15:20-24

     8829   superstition

Job 15:20-26

     8672   striving with God

Job 15:20-35

     6024   sin, effects of

Library
July 26 Evening
Give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.--PSA. 97:12. The heavens are not clean in his sight. How much more abominable and filthy is man, which drinketh iniquity like water?--Yea, the stars are not pure in his sight. How much less man, that is a worm? Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness?--Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts. As he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy;
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

Restraining Prayer: is it Sin?
"Thou restrainest prayer before God."--JOB xv. 4. "What profit should we have, if we pray unto Him?"--JOB xxi. 15. "God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you."--1 SAM. xii. 23. "Neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you."--JOSH. vii. 12. Any deep quickening of the spiritual life of the Church will always be accompanied by a deeper sense of sin. This will not begin with theology; that can only give expression to what God works
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession

Of Meditation Upon the Hidden Judgments of God, that we May not be Lifted up Because of Our Well-Doing
Thou sendest forth Thy judgments against me, O Lord, and shakest all my bones with fear and trembling, and my soul trembleth exceedingly. I stand astonished, and remember that the heavens are not clean in thy sight.(1) If Thou chargest Thine angels with folly, and didst spare them not, how shall it be unto me? Stars have fallen from heaven, and what shall I dare who am but dust? They whose works seemed to be praiseworthy, fell into the lowest depths, and they who did eat Angels' food, them have
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

All are Sinners.
Some time ago we overheard from a person who should have known better, remarks something like these: "I wonder how sinners are saved in the Lutheran Church?" "I do not hear of any being converted in the Lutheran Church," and such like. These words called to mind similar sentiments that we heard expressed long ago. More than once was the remark made in our hearing that in certain churches sinners were saved, because converted and sanctified, while it was at least doubtful whether any one could find
G. H. Gerberding—The Way of Salvation in the Lutheran Church

Whether Six Daughters are Fittingly Assigned to Anger?
Objection 1: It would seem that six daughters are unfittingly assigned to anger, namely "quarreling, swelling of the mind, contumely, clamor, indignation and blasphemy." For blasphemy is reckoned by Isidore [*QQ. in Deut., qu. xvi] to be a daughter of pride. Therefore it should not be accounted a daughter of anger. Objection 2: Further, hatred is born of anger, as Augustine says in his rule (Ep. ccxi). Therefore it should be placed among the daughters of anger. Objection 3: Further, "a swollen mind"
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Meditations to Stir us up to Morning Prayer.
1. If, when thou art about to pray, Satan shall suggest that thy prayers are too long, and that therefore it were better either to omit prayers, or else to cut them shorter, meditate that prayer is thy spiritual sacrifice, wherewith God is well pleased (Heb. xiii. 15, 16;) and therefore it is so displeasing to the devil, and so irksome to the flesh. Bend therefore thy affections (will they, nill they) to so holy an exercise; assuring thyself, that it doth by so much the more please God, by how much
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Whether Pride is the Most Grievous of Sins?
Objection 1: It would seem that pride is not the most grievous of sins. For the more difficult a sin is to avoid, the less grievous it would seem to be. Now pride is most difficult to avoid; for Augustine says in his Rule (Ep. ccxi), "Other sins find their vent in the accomplishment of evil deeds, whereas pride lies in wait for good deeds to destroy them." Therefore pride is not the most grievous of sins. Objection 2: Further, "The greater evil is opposed to the greater good," as the Philosopher
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Moral Depravity.
VIII. Let us consider the proper method of accounting for the universal and total moral depravity of the unregenerate moral agents of our race. In the discussion of this subject, I will-- 1. Endeavor to show how it is not to be accounted for. In examining this part of the subject, it is necessary to have distinctly in view that which constitutes moral depravity. All the error that has existed upon this subject, has been founded in false assumptions in regard to the nature or essence of moral depravity.
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

The Redeemer's Return is Necessitated by the Lamentation of all Creation.
The effects of the Fall have been far-reaching--"By one man sin entered the world"(Rom. 5:12). Not only was the entire human family involved but the whole "Kosmos" was affected. When Adam and Eve sinned, God not only pronounced sentence upon them and the Serpent but He cursed the ground as well--"And unto Adam He said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it, Cursed is the ground for thy sake;
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

Whether There is Hope in the Damned
Whether there is Hope in the Damned We proceed to the third article thus: 1. It seems that there is hope in the damned. For the devil is damned, and the prince of the damned, according to Matt. 25:41: "Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels." Yet the devil has hope, according to Job 41:9: "Behold, the hope of him is in vain." It seems, therefore, that the damned have hope. 2. Again, just as faith can be formed and unformed, so can hope. Now there can
Aquinas—Nature and Grace

Whether Hope is in the Damned?
Objection 1: It would seem that there is hope in the damned. For the devil is damned and prince of the damned, according to Mat. 25:41: "Depart . . . you cursed, into everlasting fire, which was prepared for the devil and his angels." But the devil has hope, according to Job 40:28, "Behold his hope shall fail him." Therefore it seems that the damned have hope. Objection 2: Further, just as faith is either living or dead, so is hope. But lifeless faith can be in the devils and the damned, according
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

The Character of Its Teachings Evidences the Divine Authorship of the Bible
Take its teachings about God Himself. What does the Bible teach us about God? It declares that He is Eternal: "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou are God" (Ps. 90:2). It reveals the fact that He is Infinite: "But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee" (I Kings 8:27). Vast as we know the universe to be, it has its bounds; but we must go beyond
Arthur W. Pink—The Divine Inspiration of the Bible

Necessity of Contemplating the Judgment-Seat of God, in Order to be Seriously Convinced of the Doctrine of Gratuitous Justification.
1. Source of error on the subject of Justification. Sophists speak as if the question were to be discussed before some human tribunal. It relates to the majesty and justice of God. Hence nothing accepted without absolute perfection. Passages confirming this doctrine. If we descend to the righteousness of the Law, the curse immediately appears. 2. Source of hypocritical confidence. Illustrated by a simile. Exhortation. Testimony of Job, David, and Paul. 3. Confession of Augustine and Bernard. 4. Another
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

The Sinner Stripped of his Vain Pleas.
1, 2. The vanity of those pleas which sinners may secretly confide in, is so apparent that they will be ashamed at last to mention them before God.--3. Such as, that they descended from pious us parents.--4. That they had attended to the speculative part of religion.--5. That they had entertained sound notion..--6, 7. That they had expressed a zealous regard to religion, and attended the outward forms of worship with those they apprehended the purest churches.--8. That they had been free from gross
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul

Original Sin
Q-16: DID ALL MANKIND FALL IN ADAM'S FIRST TRANSGRESSION? A: The covenant being made with Adam, not only for himself, but for his posterity, all mankind descending from him, by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell with him in his first transgression. 'By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin,' &c. Rom 5:12. Adam being a representative person, while he stood, we stood; when he fell, we fell, We sinned in Adam; so it is in the text, In whom all have sinned.' Adam was the head
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs
[Sidenote: Role of the sages in Israel's life] In the days of Jeremiah and Ezekiel (Jer. xviii. 18; Ezek. vii. 26) three distinct classes of religious teachers were recognized by the people: the prophets, the priests, and the wise men or sages. From their lips and pens have come practically all the writings of the Old Testament. Of these three classes the wise men or sages are far less prominent or well known. They wrote no history of Israel, they preached no public sermons, nor do they appear
Charles Foster Kent—The Origin & Permanent Value of the Old Testament

Man's Inability to Keep the Moral Law
Is any man able perfectly to keep the commandments of God? No mere man, since the fall, is able in this life perfectly to keep the commandments of God, but does daily break them, in thought, word, and deed. In many things we offend all.' James 3: 2. Man in his primitive state of innocence, was endowed with ability to keep the whole moral law. He had rectitude of mind, sanctity of will, and perfection of power. He had the copy of God's law written on his heart; no sooner did God command but he obeyed.
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

The Comforts Belonging to Mourners
Having already presented to your view the dark side of the text, I shall now show you the light side, They shall be comforted'. Where observe: 1 Mourning goes before comfort as the lancing of a wound precedes the cure. The Antinomian talks of comfort, but cries down mourning for sin. He is like a foolish patient who, having a pill prescribed him, licks the sugar but throws away the pill. The libertine is all for joy and comfort. He licks the sugar but throws away the bitter pill of repentance. If
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

The Water of Life;
OR, A DISCOURSE SHOWING THE RICHNESS AND GLORY OF THE GRACE AND SPIRIT OF THE GOSPEL, AS SET FORTH IN SCRIPTURE BY THIS TERM, THE WATER OF LIFE. BY JOHN BUNYAN. 'And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.'--Revelation 22:17 London: Printed for Nathanael Ponder, at the Peacock in the Poultry, 1688. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. Often, and in every age, the children of God have dared to doubt the sufficiency of divine grace; whether it was vast enough to reach their condition--to cleanse
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

A Defence of the Doctrine of Justification, by Faith in Jesus Christ;
SHEWING, TRUE GOSPEL-HOLINESS FLOWS FROM THENCE; OR, MR. FOWLER'S PRETENDED DESIGN OF CHRISTIANITY, PROVED TO BE NOTHING MORE THAN TO TRAMPLE UNDER FOOT THE BLOOD OF THE SON OF GOD; AND THE IDOLIZING OF MAN'S OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS AS ALSO, HOW WHILE HE PRETENDS TO BE A MINISTER OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND, HE OVERTHROWETH THE WHOLESOME DOCTRINE CONTAINED IN THE 10TH, 11TH, AND 13TH, OF THE THIRTY-NINE ARTICLES OF THE SAME, AND THAT HE FALLETH IN WITH THE QUAKER AND ROMANIST, AGAINST THEM. BY JOHN BUNYAN
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

"All Our Righteousnesses are as Filthy Rags, and we all do Fade as a Leaf, and Our Iniquities, Like the Wind, have Taken us Away. "
Isaiah lxiv. 6, 7.--"All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags, and we all do fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." Not only are the direct breaches of the command uncleanness, and men originally and actually unclean, but even our holy actions, our commanded duties. Take a man's civility, religion, and all his universal inherent righteousness,--all are filthy rags. And here the church confesseth nothing but what God accuseth her of, Isa. lxvi. 8, and chap. i. ver.
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

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

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