“Surely
such are the experiences of the unrighteous, and this is the place of him that
does not know God.” (v.21)
Here
in chapter 18 Bildad paints a powerful picture of the issues of the wicked. In
his speech, Bildad first declared of the wicked, his light is "put
out" (v.5). This is a graphic portrayal of his own spirit, "the spark
of his fire" does not shine and the light without is extinguished.
Because of this, his steps are shortened, and "his own counsel"
destroys him (vv.6-7). Lacking
the light, he falls into all sorts of snares and traps (vv.8-9). And, following
his death he becomes extinct, so far as earth is concerned; "his
remembrance perishes"; he is "chased out of the world"; he
leaves behind him no children who enter into his inheritance (vv.17-19).
This
is a tremendously powerful picture of the way of wickedness; but none of this
applies in the case of Job. Bildad’s
misinterpretation and application of Job’s character puts his rebuke way off
base. This speaks to us again of being careful how we judge any situation and
the counsel we give.
The
Truth: “If any of
you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and
without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5)
