Summary
Job 14:1–6 – Life is short and troubled
What happens: Job says man born of woman is few of days and full of trouble. He asks God to look away and let him rest like a hired worker until his day is complete.
What it means: Human life is brief and hard. God’s compassion is our only refuge. Numbering our days teaches wisdom and gentleness.
Job 14:7–12 – Tree’s hope and man’s finality
What happens: Job notes that a cut tree may sprout again with water, but a man lies down and does not rise till the heavens are no more. Water dries from the sea, and man’s hope seems to fade.
What it means: Creation carries parables of renewal, yet death still stings. The hope we need must come from God, not from nature alone. Mortality humbles every boast.
Job 14:13–17 – Wish for hiding and later renewal
What happens: Job wishes God would hide him in Sheol until wrath passes, then remember him. He asks if a man dies, will he live. He imagines God calling and Job answering, with sin sealed up and covered.
What it means: The heart longs for resurrection and pardon. Real forgiveness means God counts sin no more. Waiting on God awakens hope beyond current pain.
Job 14:18–22 – Fading hope and present sorrow
What happens: Job returns to the image of mountains crumbling and stones worn by water. He says God destroys man’s hope and he knows not if his sons honor him. He feels only his own pain.
What it means: Grief narrows vision to the present. Loss of control tempts despair. God calls us to hold to hope that he keeps when we cannot.
Application
- Live wisely because life is short and sacred.
- Ask God for mercy and a heart that waits for renewal.
- Let the promise of forgiveness steady you in grief.
- Comfort the grieving by holding hope when they cannot.