Job 14:6

Turne from him that hee may rest, till he shall accomplish, as an hircling, his day. Job 14:6 (KJV)

“Turn from him, that he may rest, till he shall accomplish, as an hireling, his day.” This verse is part of Job’s monologue within the Book of Job, where he expresses his deep anguish and longing for relief from his suffering.

The Context of Job: The Book of Job is a profound exploration of the problem of human suffering. Job, a righteous man, experiences intense afflictions, losing his wealth, health, and even his children. Throughout the book, Job wrestles with questions of justice, the nature of God, and the reason for his suffering.

Job’s Lament: In Job 14, Job expresses his deep anguish, contemplating the brevity of human life and the inevitability of death. He uses powerful metaphors to convey the transient nature of human existence. In verse 1, he says, “Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble.”

Interpretation of Job 14:6: In this specific verse, Job pleads for relief from his suffering.

• a. “Turn from him”: Job is addressing God, asking Him to turn His attention away from him. This request suggests that Job desires respite from his afflictions, that God would cease His scrutiny and judgment upon him.
• b. “That he may rest”: Job longs for a period of rest and relief from his suffering. He desires a break from his turmoil and anguish.
• c. “Till he shall accomplish, as an hireling, his day”: Job compares his life to that of a hired worker who completes their assigned tasks for the day. Here, Job acknowledges the finite nature of human life and suggests that he wishes to endure until his predetermined time on earth comes to an end.

Key Themes and Insights: Job’s plea in this verse highlights several key themes.

• a. Human suffering and the desire for relief: Job’s intense suffering prompts him to long for a respite from his afflictions. His words reflect the human desire for relief from pain and the hope for restoration.
• b. The brevity of human life: Job recognizes the fleeting nature of human existence, comparing it to the temporary labor of a hired worker. This awareness emphasizes the transitory nature of our time on earth.
• c. The recognition of divine sovereignty: While Job desires relief, he acknowledges that the determination of his days lies in God’s hands. Job recognizes that only God knows the appointed time for each person’s life.

Application to our lives: Job’s plea in this verse provides lessons and encouragement for us today.

Perseverance in suffering: Like Job, we may face trials and tribulations. This verse reminds us to endure, trusting that God’s purposes will be accomplished in His perfect timing. Seeking rest in God: In the midst of suffering, we can find solace and rest in God’s presence. We can turn to Him and find comfort, knowing that He sees our struggles and hears our pleas. Embracing the brevity of life: The reflection on the transient nature of our existence should inspire us to live with a sense of purpose, making the most of the time we have been given and focusing on eternal values.

In conclusion, Job 14:6 encapsulates Job’s plea for relief from suffering, acknowledging the brevity of human life and the desire for rest. This verse invites us to seek solace in God, embrace the transient nature of our existence, and trust in His sovereign timing.