Job 37:23
Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power, and in judgment, and in plenty of justice: he will not afflict.
Job 37:23 (KJV)
Context
The book of Job is a poetic exploration of suffering, faith, and the nature of God. Job, a righteous man, faced extreme afflictions and wrestled with the reasons behind his pain. In chapter 37, Elihu, one of Job’s friends, exalts God’s power and wisdom. His words respond to Job’s suffering, correcting the idea that God’s greatness makes Him distant or harsh.
Meaning
The verse begins by acknowledging the limit of human understanding when it comes to the Almighty. “We cannot find him out” means we cannot fully grasp the depths of God’s nature and ways. God is transcendent, far beyond our intellectual reach. Yet this incomprehensibility is not cold distance. Elihu pairs it with moral perfection: God is “excellent in power” and “in judgment,” and He has “plenty of justice.” His power is not oppressive, for “he will not afflict.” God’s greatness is joined to His goodness.
Biblical connections
God’s power is evident throughout Scripture, from the creation of the universe in Genesis 1 to the miracles performed by Jesus during His earthly ministry. His judgments are perfect and righteous, executed according to His wisdom. While human understanding of justice may be flawed, God’s judgments are trustworthy and flawless. In contrast to the injustices we often witness, God’s justice is plentiful and never lacking. He ensures that justice is ultimately served, reassuring us that even when injustice seems to prevail, God’s justice will triumph.
Application
Recognising God’s power should inspire awe and reverence within us. The immediate context (Job 37:24) shows that this awe leads to reverence: “Therefore people revere him.” When we face suffering or confusion, we can trust that God’s character is one of love, compassion, and steadfast faithfulness toward those who love Him. 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.
Reflection
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. God’s transcendence is paired with His moral perfection, inviting trust rather than fear.
