Job 20:20

Because his appetite is never satisfied, he cannot escape with his treasure.

Study Bible

Because his appetite is never satisfied
This phrase highlights the insatiable nature of human desire, particularly in the context of greed and materialism. In the broader biblical narrative, this reflects the theme of human dissatisfaction apart from God, as seen in Ecclesiastes 5:10, which states that those who love money will never have enough. The insatiable appetite can be likened to the sinful nature of humanity, which is never content and always seeking more, a condition that is only remedied through spiritual fulfillment in Christ (John 4:13-14).

he cannot escape with his treasure
This part of the verse underscores the futility of relying on earthly wealth for security and salvation. In the historical context of Job, wealth was often seen as a sign of God's favor, yet this verse challenges that notion by showing that material riches cannot ultimately save or deliver. This is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:19-21 about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth. The inability to escape with treasure serves as a reminder of the transient nature of worldly possessions and the eternal value of spiritual riches. This also connects to the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21, where earthly wealth is shown to be of no use in the face of divine judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zophar the Naamathite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Zophar is known for his harsh and direct speeches, often emphasizing God's justice and the consequences of wickedness.

2. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, a man known for his righteousness and suffering. Job's account is a profound exploration of faith, suffering, and divine justice.

3. The Dialogue
This verse is part of Zophar's second speech to Job, where he argues that the wicked will ultimately face divine retribution.

Teaching Points

The Insatiable Nature of Greed
Greed is a powerful force that can never be fully satisfied. Like a bottomless pit, it consumes without ever being filled. Christians are called to find contentment in Christ rather than in material possessions.

The Futility of Earthly Treasures
Earthly treasures are temporary and cannot provide true security or satisfaction. Believers are encouraged to store up treasures in heaven, where they are eternal and secure.

The Consequences of Wickedness
Zophar's speech serves as a reminder that wickedness ultimately leads to destruction. While the wicked may seem to prosper temporarily, their end is one of loss and emptiness.

Contentment in God
True contentment comes from a relationship with God, not from accumulating wealth or possessions. Christians are called to trust in God's provision and find satisfaction in His presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zophar's perspective on the fate of the wicked challenge or affirm your understanding of justice and retribution?

2. In what ways can the pursuit of material wealth become an insatiable appetite in our lives today? How can we guard against this?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt unsatisfied despite having what you thought you wanted. How does Job 20:20 speak to that experience?

4. How can we practically "store up treasures in heaven" in our daily lives, as opposed to focusing on earthly treasures?

5. Compare the message of Job 20:20 with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament about wealth and contentment. How do these teachings influence your view on material possessions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ecclesiastes 5:10
This verse discusses the insatiable nature of wealth and how it never satisfies those who love it, similar to the theme in Job 20:20.

Proverbs 27:20
This proverb highlights the insatiable nature of human desires, paralleling the idea that the wicked's appetite is never satisfied.

Luke 12:15-21
Jesus' parable of the rich fool warns against greed and storing up earthly treasures, echoing the futility of the wicked's pursuit of wealth in Job 20:20.