Job 13:20

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

Job 13:20 (KJV)

Context

Job speaks these words while he suffers deeply. He has lost his children, his wealth, and his health. His three friends have come to comfort him, but they soon accuse him of hidden sin, saying that his suffering must be punishment for wrongdoing. Job insists that he is innocent and longs to present his case directly to God. In Job 13, he turns away from his friends and addresses God himself, asking for a fair hearing.

Meaning

Job asks God to do only two things for him. The verse does not name them, but the next verses do. In Job 13:21, he pleads that God withdraw His hand, meaning the heavy weight of affliction. In Job 13:22, he asks that God not terrify him with dread. Job wants relief from overwhelming fear so that he can speak and God can answer. He does not demand to escape suffering altogether. He asks for the conditions that will let him approach God without hiding.

When Job says, “then will I not hide myself from thee,” he speaks of the state of his heart. In his pain, he feels distant from God, as if he is hiding. He longs to pour out his heart honestly and to hear God’s reply. His request is bold, yet it is also reverent. He does not run from God in his confusion. Instead, he insists on an audience with the One he fears and trusts.

Biblical connections

Job’s desire for someone to plead his case appears again in Job 16:19, where he speaks of a witness in heaven. Many Christians see this longing fulfilled in Christ, who stands as mediator between God and humanity. Yet the immediate focus of this verse is Job’s request for two mercies: the removal of God’s heavy hand and the absence of terrifying dread. These two things would allow him to stand before God without fear.

Application

Job’s prayer teaches us how to be honest with God. We may bring our doubts, fears, and frustrations to Him, as long as we do so with reverence. Job does not hide his pain or pretend that all is well. He speaks plainly about what he needs. This shows us that we can trust God with our deepest questions, knowing that He is attentive to our prayers.

Job also teaches us to seek reconciliation with God. Even in his suffering, he does not want to remain separated from God. He longs for restoration and for the freedom to approach God openly. In times of confusion, we can follow his example by turning toward God rather than away from Him.

We can also learn to trust God with our concerns. Job believes that God is able to address his case and bring about justice. He does not demand an answer on his own terms, but he asks for the strength to endure God’s presence. His faith is not passive. It is a confident, persistent faith that refuses to let go of God even when life is hard.

Reflection

Job’s words invite us to examine our own prayers. Do we hide from God when we suffer, or do we bring our honest questions to Him? Do we ask for relief from fear so that we can hear His voice? Job shows us that true faith does not run from God. It draws near, even when the way is difficult. His plea reminds us that God welcomes the honest cries of His children.