Job 12:11

“Doth not the ear try words? and the mouth taste his meat?”

Job 12:11 (KJV):

“Doth not the ear try words? and the mouth taste his meat?”

Context:The book of Job is a profound exploration of human suffering, faith, and the sovereignty of God. In this particular verse, Job is responding to his friends’ misguided attempts to explain his suffering. He asserts that wisdom and understanding are not limited to his friends but can be found in various places.

Importance of Listening:“Doth not the ear try words?” This phrase highlights the importance of listening and discerning the meaning of words. Job suggests that true wisdom is found not only in speaking but also in attentive listening. It implies that the ability to discern truth and wisdom requires an open and discerning ear.

Testing Words:“Doth not the ear try words?” The ear serves as a metaphorical instrument that tests the value and meaning of words. Just as the mouth tastes food to discern its flavour and quality, the ear tests words to determine their truth and significance. In our lives, we are called to be discerning listeners and evaluate the words we hear against the standard of God’s truth.

The Importance of Discernment:The verse implies that not all words are equal in value or wisdom. It encourages us to exercise discernment and test the words we hear against God’s Word. This principle is relevant in various aspects of life, including receiving advice, evaluating teachings, and discerning between truth and falsehood.

Applying the Principle:As believers, we should strive to cultivate a discerning ear and test the words we encounter, whether from others or even our own thoughts. We do this by aligning everything with the truth of God’s Word. It is important to seek wisdom from God, for He is the source of all truth and understanding.

Balanced Spiritual Nourishment:“And the mouth taste his meat?” This phrase suggests the importance of evaluating and discerning the quality of the food we consume. Just as we taste food to determine its nourishment and taste, we should be discerning in what we take in spiritually. We must choose our spiritual “food” wisely, seeking nourishment from God’s Word and teachings that align with His truth.

Reflection and Application:This verse prompts us to reflect on how we listen to others and evaluate the words we encounter. Are we actively listening, seeking wisdom, and discerning truth? It also reminds us to be intentional about the spiritual input we receive, ensuring it aligns with God’s Word and promotes growth in our faith.

• In summary, Job 12:11 emphasizes the importance of attentive listening, discernment, and testing the words we hear. It encourages us to cultivate a discerning ear and seek wisdom from God. Additionally, it reminds us to be discerning in the spiritual nourishment we receive, choosing teachings and inputs that align with God’s truth.