Job 31:27

And my heart hath been secretly enticed, or my mouth hath kissed my hand:

Job 31:27 (KJV)

Context

Job speaks these words while defending his innocence before God and his friends. His friends insisted that his suffering must be punishment for hidden sin. In response, Job declares his integrity, naming sins he has not committed. This verse belongs to a series of such declarations, forming part of his final defense.

Meaning

The heart being “secretly enticed” points to hidden desires that draw a person away from God. The phrase “my mouth hath kissed my hand” describes an ancient gesture of worship, often blowing a kiss toward an object of devotion. Job denies giving such honor to the sun or moon, which some people in his time worshipped as gods. He affirms that his worship belongs to God alone, even in private. This denial covers not only outward actions but also the secret thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Biblical connections

In the following verse, Job states that such hidden idolatry would be “an iniquity to be punished by the judge,” showing that secret sins are still serious before God. This connects with the broader biblical teaching that God sees the heart and requires wholehearted devotion. The gravity of the sin is clear: giving to creation the honor due to the Creator is a denial of God Himself.

Application

This verse calls believers to examine their own hearts. Temptation often begins secretly, in thoughts or desires that no one else sees. Job’s example encourages honesty before God and vigilance against allowing anything to take His place. True integrity includes guarding the heart against being enticed by false objects of devotion.

Reflection

Job’s integrity was not only outward but also inward. His words challenge us to consider what we honor in secret and to keep our devotion pure, trusting that God knows and values a faithful heart.