Job 13:20

“Only do not two things unto me: then will I not hide myself from thee.”

Job 13:20 (KJV) states: “Only do not two things unto me: then will I not hide myself from thee.”

This verse is part of Job’s response to his friends who have been giving him advice and trying to provide explanations for his suffering. Job, a righteous man, has been going through immense trials, including the loss of his children, his wealth, and his health. In his suffering, Job longs to present his case directly to God and plead for understanding and justice.

Context:

To understand the significance of Job 13:20, it’s crucial to grasp the context of the Book of Job. Job is a righteous man who undergoes intense suffering. His friends come to comfort him but eventually begin accusing him of sin, suggesting that his suffering is a direct result of his wrongdoing. Job, however, maintains his innocence and longs for an audience with God.

Job’s plea to God:

In Job 13, Job expresses his desire to approach God directly and present his case. He yearns for an opportunity to speak with God face to face, believing that if God would address his concerns and accusations directly, Job would no longer need to hide or defend himself.

Job’s request:

Job asks God not to do two things to him. While the specific two things are not explicitly mentioned in this verse, earlier in Job 13, he mentions these requests. In verse 21, Job pleads for God to withdraw His hand from afflicting him, and in verse 22, he asks God not to overwhelm him with fear.

Hiding from God:

When Job says, “then will I not hide myself from thee,” he is referring to the state of his heart and emotions. In his current suffering, Job feels distant from God, as if he is hiding himself from Him. Job desires an opportunity to pour out his heart honestly before God, presenting his case and seeking understanding and justice.

Job’s longing for reconciliation:

Despite feeling hidden from God, Job’s ultimate desire is not to remain in this state of separation. He yearns for reconciliation and restoration of his relationship with God. Job believes that if his requests are met and God responds, he will no longer need to hide or defend himself.

Lessons to learn from Job 13:20:

• a. Honesty and transparency in prayer: Job’s plea to God shows us the importance of being honest and transparent in our communication with God. It is acceptable to express our doubts, fears, and frustrations, as long as we do so with reverence and respect.
• b. Seeking reconciliation with God: Job’s desire to no longer hide from God teaches us the importance of seeking reconciliation and restoration in our relationship with God. Even in times of suffering or confusion, we can approach God openly, seeking understanding and restoration.
• c. Trusting God with our concerns: Job’s plea demonstrates his trust in God’s ability to address his concerns and bring about justice. It reminds us that we can trust God with our deepest fears, doubts, and questions, knowing that He is attentive to our prayers.

In conclusion, Job 13:20 reveals Job’s longing to present his case directly to God, seeking understanding, and desiring reconciliation. It teaches us the importance of honest and transparent communication with God, trusting Him with our concerns, and seeking restoration in our relationship with Him.