Job 38:35

Job 38:35 (KJV): "Canst thou send lightnings, that they may go, and say unto thee, Here we are?"

Context

This verse is part of God's awe-inspiring response to Job from the whirlwind, beginning in Job chapter 38. After many chapters where Job questions God's justice amidst his immense suffering, and his friends offer various, often misguided, explanations, God finally speaks directly. His discourse is not a direct answer to Job's "why," but rather a series of rhetorical questions designed to highlight His infinite wisdom, power, and sovereignty over all creation, contrasting it sharply with Job's (and humanity's) limited understanding and control. This particular question challenges Job's ability to command even a single, powerful element of nature like lightning.

Key Themes

• Divine Sovereignty and Power: The central theme is God's absolute, unchallenged control over every aspect of His creation. He commands the lightnings, and they obey Him instantly, demonstrating His omnipotence over natural forces.
• Human Limitation and Humility: God's questions serve to humble Job, exposing the vast chasm between human capabilities and divine power. No human can direct the path of lightning or command its presence, underscoring our dependence on and subservience to the Creator.
• God's Order in Creation: Even seemingly chaotic or destructive elements like lightning are shown to be under God's precise command, operating with intelligent obedience to His will. This suggests an underlying order and purpose in creation that is beyond human comprehension.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "lightnings" is berāqîm (בְּרָקִים), which inherently conveys ideas of suddenness, brilliance, and destructive power. The phrase "Here we are?" further emphasizes the concept of immediate obedience and personifies the lightning as servants ready to carry out their master's bidding. This vivid imagery underscores God's complete authority and the responsiveness of His creation to His command, much like a servant reporting for duty.

Practical Application

Job 38:35 calls us to a profound sense of humility and reverence before God. When faced with life's complexities, suffering, or seemingly uncontrollable events, this verse reminds us that there is a sovereign God who holds all things in His hands. We are encouraged to:

• Trust in God's Wisdom: Just as we cannot command the lightning, we often cannot fully grasp God's plans or the reasons behind our circumstances. This verse encourages us to trust that God, who controls the universe, also works all things for His purposes (Romans 8:28).
• Cultivate Humility: Recognizing our limited understanding and power in comparison to God fosters humility, leading to a deeper worship and submission to His will.
• Find Peace in His Sovereignty: Knowing that an all-powerful, all-wise God is in control can bring immense peace, even amidst chaos. He who commands the lightnings also cares for His creation and His people.