Summary
Job 36:1–4 – Elihu speaks on God’s behalf
What happens: Elihu asks for patience as he ascribes righteousness to the Maker. He claims broad knowledge and aims for truth.
What it means: Teaching about God must aim to exalt God’s righteousness. Confidence needs humility. Accuracy matters in counsel.
Job 36:5–15 – God’s mighty justice and fatherly discipline
What happens: God is mighty, does not despise any, and sustains the afflicted. He exalts the righteous and teaches them through discipline, opening their ears to instruction.
What it means: God’s power is joined to compassion. Discipline is a mercy that leads to life. Obedience brings freedom and joy.
Job 36:16–23 – Warning to Job against pride and bribery
What happens: Elihu warns that God was drawing Job out of distress but pride can trap him. No riches can ransom a person from God’s appointed day.
What it means: Pride is a snare in suffering. God cannot be bought. Trust and repentance are the path forward.
Job 36:24–33 – God’s greatness in storm and thunder
What happens: Elihu urges Job to remember God’s works. He describes clouds, lightning, and thunder as God’s voice.
What it means: Creation preaches God’s power and wisdom. Weather is not random to God. Awe should lead to faith.
Application
- Receive discipline as love that teaches you to live.
- Reject pride and any attempt to bargain with God.
- Let creation move you to worship the God who governs it.
