“As long
as my breath is in me, and the breath of God in my nostrils, my lips
will not speak wickedness, nor my tongue utter deceit.” (vv. 3-4)
Here in
chapter 27 Job maintains his integrity (to his friends) by taking an oath of
not speaking wickedly or deceitfully against God. It seems the more his friends
tried to convict him, the more adamant Job became in his position of
righteousness. Even though he was perplexed as to his situation and in pain, Job
remained unshaken in defending his position.
This should
speak volumes to us that conviction is the job of the Holy Spirit, not man. It
is impossible to argue anyone into repentance. It will just cause people to
become more hardened in their own position. Better to love and pray for them,
trusting the Holy Spirit will work in their lives on the issues that need
attention.
The Truth:
“Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for
if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will
send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of
righteousness, and of judgment.” (John 16:7-8)
