The ability to “defend oneself” emphasizes one’s autonomy and power over oneself. Feelings of helplessness are tried to be pushed aside while maintaining what is true for oneself. In this reading, Job’s efforts are seen to show his position that he is innocent. This is done by remembering his true identity and what happened in the past. The notes are like a defense note delivered by a defendant in court and that is indeed the description obtained in the text. In this part of our reading, Job declares and proves his loyalty to God and his obedience to the principles of life stated by God.

The ancient wisdom that developed at that time emphasized the dangers of greed in human life. Gold, which is only a precious metal, can become a new “god” to be worshiped. In verses 24-25, Job firmly states his attitude towards the possessions he owns. As we know, Job was an extremely wealthy man, even so he refused to rely on his security and peace solely on possessions. True wealth for him is obtaining God’s wisdom alone.

If other nations were amazed at the sun and moon and then made them gods for determining life, Job was not at all affected by this act of idolatry. Duplicating God is one of God's laws that has been emphasized since the time of Moses not to be violated. No matter how difficult life is, for Job only God is worthy of worship and is the place to depend on.

After emphasizing his firmness in continuing to worship God and not second-guessing Him, whether with material possessions or other gods, Job moved on to statements about his treatment of other people. He never once rejoiced at the misfortune that was present in other people's lives, even if they were his enemies. Job did not want to pronounce the sin of curses against others. To foreigners and travelers, Job gave a lift. They were not left neglected, in accordance with the norms and values ​​that developed in the ancient Middle East at that time.

Bible friends, Job's statements remind us to always live righteously according to His wisdom and guidance. In the suffering he experienced, Job remembered his upright life and always upheld His laws. What he did became a kind of evidence to be presented to Him and reject the view of his friends that he was suffering because of the punishment for his sins. When will He hear that call? Everything has been in the wisdom and prudence of God alone. However, our motivation to become righteous people is not because of the rewards we will receive, but gratitude for the creative work and love of God that continues to be woven into our lives.