Job 22:22
“Receive, I pray thee, the law from his mouth, and lay up his words in thine heart.”
This verse is found in the Book of Job, specifically in a section where Job’s friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, are trying to offer their understanding of why Job is suffering.
In this particular verse, Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, is giving him advice on how to deal with his situation.
To better understand the verse, let’s examine it in context:Job 22:21-23 (KJV):“21 Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee. Receive, I pray thee, the law from his mouth, and lay up his words in thine heart.: 23 If thou return to the Almighty, thou shalt be built up, thou shalt put away iniquity far from thy tabernacles.”
In these verses, Eliphaz encourages Job to seek God and establish a relationship with Him.
He advises Job to “acquaint now thyself with him,” suggesting that by drawing closer to God, Job would find peace and prosperity.
The phrase “lay up his words in thine heart” suggests that Job should internalize God’s words, allowing them to penetrate deep within his being and shape his thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
Eliphaz continues in verse 23, expressing the benefits that await Job if he returns to the Almighty and forsakes sin. He assures Job that as he turns back to God and removes iniquity from his dwelling places, he will be built up and restored.
Overall, Job 22:22 conveys the importance of seeking God’s instruction and treasuring His words in one’s heart. It encourages a close relationship with God, a humble posture of learning from Him, and a willingness to align one’s life with His commandments and teachings.
It is worth noting that while the Book of Job contains many profound insights and theological discussions, the speeches of Job’s friends are not always accurate or reflective of God’s perspective. In the later chapters of the book, God Himself corrects the friends’ faulty understanding and addresses Job directly. Therefore, when studying Job, it is essential to consider the entire context and the ultimate message of the book.
