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Job 23:12
Verse
Context
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The commandment of his lips - The written law that proceeded from his own mouth. I have esteemed the words of his mouth - Mr. Good has given a better version of the original: In my bosom have I stored up the words of his mouth. The Asiatics carry every thing precious or valuable in their bosom, their handkerchiefs, jewels, purses, etc. Job, therefore, intimates that the words of God's mouth were to him a most precious treasure.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
esteemed--rather, "laid up," namely, as a treasure found (Mat 13:44; Psa 119:11); alluding to the words of Eliphaz (Job 22:22). There was no need to tell me so; I have done so already (Jer 15:16). necessary--"Appointed portion" (of food; as in Pro 30:8). UMBREIT and MAURER translate, "More than my law," my own will, in antithesis to "the words of His mouth" (Joh 6:38). Probably under the general term, "what is appointed to me" (the same Hebrew is in Job 23:14), all that ministers to the appetites of the body and carnal will is included.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But he is in one mind,.... Either with respect to his commandments, every precept remains in full force, he never alters the thing that is gone out of his lips, or delivers out other commandments different from, or contrary to what he has given; and therefore Job thought it his duty to abide by them, and not decline from them; which is the sense of a Jewish commentator (c), connecting the words with the preceding: Or with respect to his dispensations towards Job in afflicting him; which he continued notwithstanding his innocence, because he is a sovereign Being, and does whatsoever he pleases; he is unchangeable in his purposes and decrees; he is not to be wrought upon by any means to alter his fixed course; he is not to be contradicted nor resisted; and this was the reason why he would not be found by him, though he sought him so earnestly and diligently, and why he would not hear him, and would not appear to try his cause, though he knew he was innocent, because he was determined to go on to afflict him; and he never changes his mind, or alters his counsels, on any account whatever. The Vulgate Latin version renders it, "for he is alone": and so the Targum, "if he is alone, or the only one;'' there is none with him to advise him, for "with whom took he counsel?" or to persuade him to be of another mind, and take contrary measures, who might be applied to, to use their interest with him to act it, a different manner; but he is alone, there are none with him that have any influence upon him, and can prevail with him to do otherwise than he does; some translate the words, "if he acts against one" (d); against a man in a hostile way, if he sets his face against him, and comes upon him as an enemy; and so Mr. Broughton, "yet when he is against me, who can stay him?" notwithstanding my innocence and integrity, though I keep his ways, and do not go back from his commandments. Some think there is a redundancy of a letter, which we translate "in", and then the words wilt be read thus: "but he is one"; the one only living and true God; this is the voice of reason and revelation, "hear, O Israel, the Lord thy God is one Lord", Deu 6:4; for though there are three Persons in the Godhead, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, "these three are one God", Jo1 5:7; and so the words are expressive of the unity of the Divine Being; but this seems not to be Job's sense: Aben Ezra says, the truth is, that the letter is not added, is no redundancy, and should be read "he is in one"; but, says he, I cannot explain it, there is a great mystery in it: what the Jew understood not may be more clear and plain to us Christians, who are taught the mystery of the indwelling of the divine Persons in each other, the Father is in the Son, and the Son is in the Father, as they are divine Persons; though in what manner they are we are not able to explain; besides, God was in Christ, as Mediator, reconciling the world, choosing his people in him, and blessing them with all spiritual blessings in him; though the true sense seems to, be what is before given, agreeably to our version, that God is in one mind, purpose, and design; that his decrees are unchangeable and invariable; that he always acts according to them, and never alters them: and who can turn him? turn his mind, or cause him to change his counsel, and alter his purposes; or turn his hand, or stop and stay it from the execution of them; it is not to be done by force and power, there is no power equal to his, and much less superior to his; which must be the case, if any could turn him: and though he may be turned by the prayers of his people, and by the repentance of men, so as to repent himself, and not do what he has threatened to do; yet this is no change of his mind and counsels, only an alteration in the course of his providence, or a change of his outward dealings with men, according to his unchangeable will; see Isa 14:27; and what his soul desireth, even that he doth: that is, what he himself desireth earnestly and vehemently; he has done all things in creation according to the good pleasure of his will; and he does all things in providence according to the counsel of it, and as seems best in his sight; and so he does all things in grace, chooses whom he will, predestinates to the adoption of children according to the good pleasure of his will: redeems whom he pleases, and calls by his grace, and brings to glory whomsoever he will be gracious to; see Psa 115:3. (c) Sophorno. (d) "sed si ipse contra unum agit", Junius & Tremellius; so Piscator, Cocceius.
Job 23:12
Job Longs for God
11My feet have followed in His tracks; I have kept His way without turning aside. 12I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Value of the Word
By Walter Wilson86040:55Word Of GodJOB 23:12PSA 119:11MAT 11:28JHN 3:16JHN 5:24JHN 12:32ROM 10:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of treating the Bible like food for our souls. He compares it to a bottle filled with various ingredients, encouraging listeners to take in different aspects of God's word, even the bitter parts, and be grateful for them. The preacher shares his experience of preaching a message that had something relevant for everyone in the audience, and how the verses he used were like food that nourished their souls. He also highlights the Bible as God's X-ray and diagnostic machine, helping us understand what is wrong inside us. The sermon concludes with the preacher sharing how he applied these principles in his subsequent preaching engagements.
The Word of God
By James Smith0JOB 23:12PSA 119:11JER 15:16JHN 5:392TI 3:16James Smith preaches on the divine nature of the Bible, emphasizing its origin as God-breathed and its usefulness for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. The Scriptures reveal God, direct man, and contain a rich variety of content that meets the needs of sinners. This holy book is pure, true, sure, and right, reflecting the holiness, justice, and grace of God, and is essential for spiritual growth and understanding.
After the Holiness Meeting
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Faith and AssuranceHoly SpiritJOB 23:12PSA 1:2PSA 19:10ISA 54:11JER 29:11MAT 4:4JHN 14:26JHN 16:13ROM 8:37GAL 5:25Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the significance of receiving the Holy Spirit after a holiness meeting, encouraging believers to maintain their faith even if they do not initially feel His presence. He reassures that God has wonderful plans for them and that the Holy Spirit will glorify Jesus in their hearts, guiding them to a deeper understanding of Scripture. Brengle warns against doubt and confusion that may arise after receiving the Holy Spirit, urging believers to trust in God's promises and to actively engage in their faith. He highlights the importance of living in the Spirit and being a channel for His power, while also preparing for trials that may come as a result of their faith. Ultimately, he reassures that nothing can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
How to Study the Bible
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Relationship with GodBible StudyJOS 1:8JOB 23:12PSA 119:11PSA 119:97JER 15:16LUK 24:27LUK 24:45JHN 5:39ACT 17:11EPH 4:32Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the importance of studying the Bible with the same passion and dedication as a young lover cherishes letters from their beloved. He encourages readers to approach the Scriptures with an open mind, searching diligently for truth and understanding, much like the Bereans who examined the Scriptures daily. Brengle highlights that the goal of Bible study should not be mere accumulation of knowledge, but rather the cultivation of love and a deeper relationship with God. He advises readers to follow the flow of thought in the Scriptures and to persist in their study, trusting that understanding will come with time and prayer. Ultimately, he calls for a heartfelt engagement with God's Word, leading to transformation and a life reflective of Christ's love.
Satanic Interruptions!
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual WarfarePrayerJOB 23:12ISA 53:3MAT 6:6LUK 5:16ACT 6:4ROM 12:2EPH 6:12PHP 4:61TH 5:17JAS 5:16David Wilkerson addresses the pervasive issue of 'satanic interruptions' that hinder Christians from deepening their relationship with God. He emphasizes that while many conspiracies may exist in the world, the true threat lies in the distractions that keep believers from prayer and communion with God. Wilkerson shares personal experiences of how he has been sidetracked by various interruptions, urging Christians to prioritize their time with God above all else. He calls for a recognition of the spiritual battle against these distractions and encourages believers to reclaim their prayer time as sacred. Ultimately, he stresses that a devoted prayer life is essential for spiritual strength and effectiveness in ministry.
It Is Written
By George Kulp0JOB 23:12PSA 119:105ISA 55:11ACT 17:11ROM 8:38ROM 10:151CO 1:18PHP 4:132TI 3:16HEB 4:12George Kulp emphasizes the importance of studying the Scriptures diligently rather than randomly selecting verses, comparing it to seeking a remedy in a drug store. He highlights the value of the Word of God in revealing our origin, destiny, and the path to virtuous excellence, urging listeners to cherish and share its message. Kulp stresses the necessity for preachers to rely on the Word to win souls and achieve eternal results, cautioning against neglecting the call of God for earthly recognition. He encourages believers to use the promises in the Bible to face various life challenges with confidence and to find victory through the Word, just as Jesus and the Apostles did.
Manna in the Morning
By Bobby Moore0JOB 23:12PSA 85:6PSA 119:105ISA 57:15MAT 4:4MAT 22:37MAT 28:18ROM 8:281CO 10:312CO 3:182CO 5:17Bobby Moore shares a transformative experience he had during a sermon by Dr. Stephen Olford on developing a personal devotional life. Moore reflects on how this encounter led him to prioritize meeting with God daily, resulting in a deep love relationship with God and significant changes in his priorities, perspective, personality, and purpose. Through consistent devotional time, Moore's perspective shifted to see God, himself, others, and circumstances in a new light, leading to personal growth and character development.
Bible Reading - Part 2
By J.C. Ryle0The Importance of Bible ReadingThe Authority of ScriptureJOB 23:12PSA 119:11PSA 119:97ISA 43:2JHN 3:161CO 15:55PHP 1:21COL 3:162TI 3:16REV 7:9J.C. Ryle emphasizes the necessity of the Bible as the sole authority for doctrine and practice amidst the confusion of differing Christian beliefs. He urges believers to measure all teachings against Scripture, asserting that true ministers welcome scrutiny of their teachings by the Word of God. Ryle highlights the Bible's role as the sustenance for spiritual life and the only source of comfort in death, warning against neglecting its importance. He calls Christians to read, understand, and apply the Bible diligently in their lives, as it is essential for salvation and spiritual growth. Ultimately, Ryle implores his audience to consider their relationship with the Bible and to prioritize it above all else.
A Conspiracy of Interruptions
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual WarfareThe Power of PrayerJOB 23:12PSA 119:11MAT 6:6LUK 18:1EPH 6:18PHP 4:6COL 4:21TH 5:17HEB 4:16JAS 5:16David Wilkerson emphasizes the immense power of fervent prayer from a single believer, which can shake the very foundations of hell. He warns that the soul yearning for a deeper relationship with Christ becomes a target for Satan's conspiracy of interruptions, which distracts believers from prayer and the study of God's Word. Wilkerson shares the struggle of a pastor who finds himself overwhelmed by daily distractions, illustrating how the devil uses busyness to rob Christians of their time with God. He stresses that prayer and communion with God are essential for spiritual survival, urging believers to prioritize their prayer life as a necessity rather than an option.
Our Chart and Compass for This Year
By Leonard Ravenhill0GuidanceImportance of ScriptureJOB 23:12PSA 19:7PSA 119:105ISA 40:8MAT 4:4ROM 10:17EPH 6:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:22Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the necessity of relying on the Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit as Christians navigate the challenges of the coming year. He compares the spiritual journey to mountain climbing, highlighting that without a proper guide and tools, one risks peril. Ravenhill urges believers to esteem God's Word above all else, asserting its infallibility and importance in a world that often dismisses it. He encourages Christians to not only read the Bible but to practice and obey it, as true wisdom and holiness come from living out its teachings. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to the Word as the foundation for a blessed life in the year ahead.
Vile!
By A.W. Pink0DEU 32:46JOB 23:12MAT 4:4Greek Word Studies preaches on the significance of being like newborn infants in approaching God's Word, emphasizing the eagerness and dependency newborns have for nourishment as a parallel to believers craving the spiritual nourishment found in the Scriptures. The Amplified Version of Matthew 4:4 highlights Jesus' teaching that sustenance comes not just from physical food but from every word that proceeds from God, emphasizing the vital role of God's Word in sustaining life. Deuteronomy 32:46-47 underscores the life-giving nature of God's Word, stating that obedience to His commands prolongs days and brings success, as seen in Israel's journey to possess their inheritance.
Be a Bible Student!
By R. Stanley0DEU 4:8JOB 23:12PSA 119:105HOS 4:6MRK 13:31JHN 5:39JHN 19:28ACT 17:111PE 2:22PE 1:19R. Stanley emphasizes the significance of the Holy Scriptures as a precious gift from God, highlighting the eternal nature of God's Word amidst the temporal world. Jesus and great men of God like D.L. Moody and George Muller exemplified a deep reverence and reliance on the Scriptures in their lives. The sermon stresses the importance of personal Bible study, encouraging believers to be diligent students of the Word to grow in faith and understanding. It also provides guidance on choosing Bible translations, study Bibles, concordances, commentaries, and dictionaries to enhance one's study of the Scriptures for spiritual growth and maturity.
Guarding Your Prayer Life
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual WarfarePrayer LifeJOB 23:12MAT 6:6LUK 5:16PHP 4:6David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of guarding one's prayer life against distractions and interruptions that the enemy uses to thwart Christians' devotion to God. He highlights that the devil fears those who earnestly seek righteousness and prayer, as their intercession is powerful against evil. Wilkerson urges believers to prioritize their communion with God above all else, treating their time with Him as sacred and rejecting any interruptions that hinder their spiritual growth. He encourages Christians to recognize the necessity of spending time in prayer to truly serve others with God's compassion. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to enter into the fullness of one's relationship with Christ.
Job 23:12
By Chuck Smith0Divine RevelationThe Value of God's WordJOB 23:12PSA 19:7PSA 119:105PRO 2:6ISA 55:11MAT 4:4JHN 1:1ROM 10:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12Chuck Smith emphasizes the profound value of God's Word in understanding and knowing God, as illustrated in Job's struggle to find Him amidst his suffering. He highlights that while Job had deep convictions about God, he could not perceive His presence, reflecting a common human experience of feeling distant from God despite His work around us. Smith stresses the necessity of divine revelation, asserting that the Bible serves as God's ultimate communication to humanity, providing guidance, strength, and understanding. He urges believers to prioritize God's Word in their lives, comparing its importance to the daily nourishment we seek for our bodies. Ultimately, knowing God through His Word is presented as the most crucial aspect of life.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The commandment of his lips - The written law that proceeded from his own mouth. I have esteemed the words of his mouth - Mr. Good has given a better version of the original: In my bosom have I stored up the words of his mouth. The Asiatics carry every thing precious or valuable in their bosom, their handkerchiefs, jewels, purses, etc. Job, therefore, intimates that the words of God's mouth were to him a most precious treasure.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
esteemed--rather, "laid up," namely, as a treasure found (Mat 13:44; Psa 119:11); alluding to the words of Eliphaz (Job 22:22). There was no need to tell me so; I have done so already (Jer 15:16). necessary--"Appointed portion" (of food; as in Pro 30:8). UMBREIT and MAURER translate, "More than my law," my own will, in antithesis to "the words of His mouth" (Joh 6:38). Probably under the general term, "what is appointed to me" (the same Hebrew is in Job 23:14), all that ministers to the appetites of the body and carnal will is included.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But he is in one mind,.... Either with respect to his commandments, every precept remains in full force, he never alters the thing that is gone out of his lips, or delivers out other commandments different from, or contrary to what he has given; and therefore Job thought it his duty to abide by them, and not decline from them; which is the sense of a Jewish commentator (c), connecting the words with the preceding: Or with respect to his dispensations towards Job in afflicting him; which he continued notwithstanding his innocence, because he is a sovereign Being, and does whatsoever he pleases; he is unchangeable in his purposes and decrees; he is not to be wrought upon by any means to alter his fixed course; he is not to be contradicted nor resisted; and this was the reason why he would not be found by him, though he sought him so earnestly and diligently, and why he would not hear him, and would not appear to try his cause, though he knew he was innocent, because he was determined to go on to afflict him; and he never changes his mind, or alters his counsels, on any account whatever. The Vulgate Latin version renders it, "for he is alone": and so the Targum, "if he is alone, or the only one;'' there is none with him to advise him, for "with whom took he counsel?" or to persuade him to be of another mind, and take contrary measures, who might be applied to, to use their interest with him to act it, a different manner; but he is alone, there are none with him that have any influence upon him, and can prevail with him to do otherwise than he does; some translate the words, "if he acts against one" (d); against a man in a hostile way, if he sets his face against him, and comes upon him as an enemy; and so Mr. Broughton, "yet when he is against me, who can stay him?" notwithstanding my innocence and integrity, though I keep his ways, and do not go back from his commandments. Some think there is a redundancy of a letter, which we translate "in", and then the words wilt be read thus: "but he is one"; the one only living and true God; this is the voice of reason and revelation, "hear, O Israel, the Lord thy God is one Lord", Deu 6:4; for though there are three Persons in the Godhead, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, "these three are one God", Jo1 5:7; and so the words are expressive of the unity of the Divine Being; but this seems not to be Job's sense: Aben Ezra says, the truth is, that the letter is not added, is no redundancy, and should be read "he is in one"; but, says he, I cannot explain it, there is a great mystery in it: what the Jew understood not may be more clear and plain to us Christians, who are taught the mystery of the indwelling of the divine Persons in each other, the Father is in the Son, and the Son is in the Father, as they are divine Persons; though in what manner they are we are not able to explain; besides, God was in Christ, as Mediator, reconciling the world, choosing his people in him, and blessing them with all spiritual blessings in him; though the true sense seems to, be what is before given, agreeably to our version, that God is in one mind, purpose, and design; that his decrees are unchangeable and invariable; that he always acts according to them, and never alters them: and who can turn him? turn his mind, or cause him to change his counsel, and alter his purposes; or turn his hand, or stop and stay it from the execution of them; it is not to be done by force and power, there is no power equal to his, and much less superior to his; which must be the case, if any could turn him: and though he may be turned by the prayers of his people, and by the repentance of men, so as to repent himself, and not do what he has threatened to do; yet this is no change of his mind and counsels, only an alteration in the course of his providence, or a change of his outward dealings with men, according to his unchangeable will; see Isa 14:27; and what his soul desireth, even that he doth: that is, what he himself desireth earnestly and vehemently; he has done all things in creation according to the good pleasure of his will; and he does all things in providence according to the counsel of it, and as seems best in his sight; and so he does all things in grace, chooses whom he will, predestinates to the adoption of children according to the good pleasure of his will: redeems whom he pleases, and calls by his grace, and brings to glory whomsoever he will be gracious to; see Psa 115:3. (c) Sophorno. (d) "sed si ipse contra unum agit", Junius & Tremellius; so Piscator, Cocceius.