Job 37:23

Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power, and in iudgement, and in plenty of iustice: he will not afflict. Job 37:23 (KJV)

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excellent in power, and in judgment, and in plenty of justice: he will not afflict. Job 37:23 (KJV)

The book of Job is a poetic and philosophical exploration of suffering, faith, and the nature of God. Job, a righteous man, faced extreme afflictions, and throughout the book he wrestles with the reasons behind his suffering and seeks answers from God. In chapter 37 Elihu, one of Job’s friends, exalts God’s power and wisdom.

God’s Incomprehensibility: The verse begins by acknowledging the limitation of human understanding when it comes to the Almighty. It suggests that we cannot fully comprehend or grasp the depths of God’s nature and ways. God is transcendent, far beyond our intellectual capacity, and His ways are often beyond our understanding (cf. Isaiah 55:9).

God’s Excellence in Power: The verse emphasizes that God is excellent in power. He possesses unlimited might and strength. The power of God is evident throughout Scripture, from the creation of the universe in Genesis 1 to the miracles performed by Jesus during His earthly ministry. Recognising God’s power should inspire awe and reverence within us.

God’s Excellence in Judgment: Along with power, God is also excellent in judgment. He is the ultimate judge who knows and discerns all things. God’s judgments are perfect and righteous, and He executes justice according to His wisdom. While human understanding of justice may be flawed, God’s judgments are trustworthy and flawless.

Plenty of Justice: The verse further emphasizes that there is an abundance of justice with God. In contrast to the injustices we often witness, God’s justice is plentiful and never lacking. He ensures that justice is ultimately served and that every action has consequences, reassuring us that even when injustice seems to prevail, God’s justice will ultimately triumph.

God’s Mercy and Faithfulness: Although the verse does not explicitly state that God “will not afflict,” Scripture elsewhere affirms God’s mercy and faithfulness toward His people (see Romans 8:28). While God may allow suffering for various reasons, He is not the source of evil. His character is one of love, compassion, and steadfast faithfulness toward those who love Him.

Overall, Job 37:23 reminds us of the awe‑inspiring power, wisdom, and justice of God. It acknowledges our human limitations in comprehending the fullness of God’s ways and encourages us to trust in His justice and faithfulness, even in the midst of suffering.