Job 18:7

His vigorous stride is shortened, and his own schemes trip him up.

Study Bible

His vigorous stride
The phrase "His vigorous stride" suggests a once confident and powerful movement. In the Hebrew text, the word for "vigorous" can be linked to strength and vitality, often associated with a person's ability to move forward with purpose and determination. In the context of Job, Bildad is speaking about the fate of the wicked, implying that their once strong and confident progress in life will be hindered. This can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual and moral journey, where reliance on one's own strength without God leads to eventual downfall. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern belief in divine retribution, where the wicked cannot sustain their path without divine favor.

is shortened
The phrase "is shortened" indicates a limitation or reduction. In Hebrew, the concept of shortening can imply a sudden or unexpected halt. This suggests that the wicked, despite their initial vigor, will find their progress abruptly curtailed. Theologically, this can be interpreted as a divine intervention where God limits the success of those who act against His will. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over human affairs.

and his own schemes
"His own schemes" refers to the plans and plots devised by the individual. The Hebrew word for "schemes" often carries a negative connotation, implying deceitful or cunning plans. In the biblical context, this highlights the futility of relying on one's own wisdom and cunning apart from God. The historical context of the ancient world often saw leaders and individuals plotting for power and success, yet the Bible consistently teaches that such schemes are ultimately futile without divine blessing.

trip him up
The phrase "trip him up" conveys the idea of stumbling or falling due to one's own actions. In Hebrew, the imagery of tripping or stumbling is frequently used to describe moral or spiritual failure. This serves as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of sin and pride. Theologically, it underscores the principle that those who rely on their own understanding and reject God's guidance will ultimately face downfall. This reflects the biblical theme of sowing and reaping, where one's actions inevitably lead to corresponding consequences. The verse as a whole serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-reliance and the importance of seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all endeavors.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bildad the Shuhite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Bildad is speaking, offering his perspective on the fate of the wicked.

2. Job
The central figure of the book, a man of great faith and patience who undergoes severe trials and suffering.

3. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel, possibly in Edom or northern Arabia.

4. The Wicked
Although not a specific person, Bildad's speech is directed at the general concept of the wicked, implying that Job's suffering is due to wickedness.

5. God's Justice
An overarching theme in the Book of Job, where the justice of God is questioned and explored through Job's suffering and the speeches of his friends.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Wickedness
Bildad's speech serves as a reminder that wickedness has consequences. While his application to Job is incorrect, the principle remains true that sin leads to downfall.

Misapplication of Truth
Bildad's error was applying a general truth to Job's specific situation. We must be careful not to misapply biblical principles without understanding the context.

God's Sovereignty Over Human Plans
Human plans and schemes are ultimately subject to God's will. We should seek His guidance rather than relying solely on our own understanding.

The Importance of Compassionate Counsel
Bildad's harsh words highlight the need for compassion and empathy when offering counsel to those who are suffering.

Trusting God's Justice
Even when circumstances are difficult to understand, we must trust in God's ultimate justice and righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Bildad's perspective on the fate of the wicked reflect a common understanding of justice, and how does it compare to God's justice as revealed in the rest of Scripture?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we do not misapply biblical truths to the situations of others, as Bildad did with Job?

3. How can we balance the understanding of human responsibility and God's sovereignty in our daily decision-making?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer compassionate and empathetic counsel to those who are suffering, based on the lessons from Job's friends?

5. How can we cultivate trust in God's justice and righteousness, especially when we face situations that seem unfair or difficult to understand?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 37
This Psalm discusses the fate of the wicked and the righteous, echoing Bildad's assertions about the downfall of those who do evil.

Proverbs 16:9
This verse speaks to the plans of man and how ultimately, it is the Lord who directs his steps, connecting to the idea that human schemes can lead to downfall.

Galatians 6:7
This New Testament verse warns that God is not mocked, and a man reaps what he sows, aligning with Bildad's view of divine retribution.