Job 22:28

Job 22:28 is a powerful declaration made by Eliphaz the Temanite to Job, suggesting a path to restoration and prosperity. It states, "Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways." This verse offers a glimpse into the ancient understanding of divine favor and human agency.

Context

This verse comes from the third speech of Eliphaz, one of Job's three friends who came to comfort him in his suffering. Throughout the Book of Job, Eliphaz and his companions operate under the traditional retribution theology, believing that great suffering must be a direct result of great sin. In Job 22:21-27, Eliphaz urges Job to "acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace," implying that Job needs to repent and return to God. Eliphaz presents this verse as a conditional promise: if Job repents and purifies himself, then he will experience divine blessing and success. While Eliphaz's overall assessment of Job's situation is incorrect (as God later affirms Job's righteousness), this particular verse highlights an enduring principle often associated with faith and divine empowerment.

Key Themes

• Divine Empowerment to Decree: The phrase "Thou shalt also decree a thing" suggests that God grants authority and power to His faithful servants to make declarations or decisions that will be honored in the spiritual realm. It implies a partnership between divine will and human action.
• Divine Establishment and Success: "And it shall be established unto thee" promises that what is decreed in faith and alignment with God's will will come to pass and be confirmed. This speaks to the reliability of God's promises and His commitment to fulfill the declarations of His righteous ones. This concept of divine establishment is echoed in other scriptures, such as Proverbs 16:3, "Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established."
• Divine Guidance and Illumination: "And the light shall shine upon thy ways" signifies divine guidance, clarity, and prosperity. "Light" in biblical terms often represents truth, understanding, favor, and blessings. It implies that God will illuminate the path forward, removing obstacles and providing wisdom, ensuring Job's prosperity and clear direction. This aligns with the idea of God's word being a lamp and a light, as seen in Psalm 119:105.

Linguistic Insights

• The Hebrew word for "decree" is גָּזַר (gazar), which means "to cut off," "to decide," or "to determine." It suggests a firm, decisive pronouncement, often with the implication of something being irrevocably set.
• "Established" comes from the root קוּם (qum), meaning "to rise," "stand," "confirm," or "be fulfilled." This emphasizes the certainty and permanence of what is decreed.
• "Light" is אוֹר ('or), a common biblical term symbolizing not just physical light but also spiritual understanding, joy, prosperity, and God's favor.

Practical Application

While Eliphaz's specific application to Job was flawed, the underlying principles of Job 22:28 hold significant spiritual truth for believers today. This verse encourages a proactive faith where we, through prayer and alignment with God's will, can declare His promises and see them come to fruition. It reminds us of:

• The Power of Prayer and Confession: Our words, when spoken in faith and accordance with God's revealed will, carry weight.
• Trust in Divine Guidance: As we seek God, He promises to illuminate our paths, providing clarity and direction in our decisions and life's journey.
• Living in Alignment with God's Word: When our desires and declarations are rooted in God's character and His promises, we can trust that He will establish them and bring light to our endeavors.

This verse serves as an encouragement to walk in faith, trusting that God will bring stability and clarity to those who genuinely seek Him and commit their ways to Him.