Job 8:20

Behold, God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will hee helpe the euill doers: Job 8:20 (KJV)

The book of Job introduces a man named Job who endured severe trials: the loss of his possessions, the death of his children, and serious health afflictions. Throughout the narrative, Job and his friends engage in a prolonged dialogue concerning suffering, divine justice, and the character of God.

In chapter 8, Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, responds to Job’s lament. He maintains that God rewards the righteous and punishes the wicked, implying that Job’s calamities must be the result of some hidden sin. Eliphaz’s statement in Job 8:20—“Behold, God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will he help the evil doers”—reflects this conviction.

While Eliphaz’s words convey a general principle, the broader biblical witness teaches that God is both just and merciful. Scripture affirms that God does punish evildoers, yet He also extends grace and forgiveness to those who repent (see Romans 3:23, which reminds us that all have fallen short of God’s perfect standard). Thus, no one can be deemed completely perfect or blameless on their own merit.

The perspective offered by Eliphaz is therefore limited. Although God does not abandon a truly blameless person, the Bible makes clear that humanity is universally sinful. Later chapters (38‑42) record God Himself speaking to Job, correcting the friends’ misunderstandings and revealing a wisdom that surpasses human reasoning.

The larger message of Job points to the mystery of God’s ways. The dialogue of the friends, though well‑intentioned, falls short of the divine revelation that follows. God’s sovereign wisdom, displayed in the whirlwind speeches, reminds us that divine justice cannot be reduced to simple cause‑and‑effect formulas.

Application for today:

Job’s experience calls us to humility and trust. When faced with suffering or unanswered questions, we are encouraged to seek God’s presence rather than rely on our limited understanding. Trusting in His goodness and sovereignty provides comfort amid trials.

In summary, Job 8:20 records Eliphaz’s view that God does not cast away a perfect man nor aid evildoers. Yet the broader scriptural context teaches that all humans are imperfect, and God’s justice operates within a framework of mercy, wisdom, and mystery that calls believers to humble reliance on Him.