Job 33:31 Commentary and Bible Study

Elihu gives notice that he has more to say and though he wants Job to listen and think carefully about his words not fighting against them, he now leaves space for him to reply. Job however remains silent and evidently, in contrast to his response to the three friends, he is listening and receiving what is said to him. Job is urged to hold his peace, or in Hebrew to keep quiet, to be silent. The shutting of the mouth will not stop the thoughts from continuing to boiling, but it begins the process of listening and the heart is influenced by what we allow our mouths to do. Elihu of course means more: that Job will give proper attention to what he is saying. Elihu announces himself as one who is on Job’s side and not out to criticise him or bring him down. Job has nothing to fear from this quarter and Elihu will take a very different approach which borrows nothing from that of the friends. He has already made plain that he does not at all agree with their attitude to Job. How much easier it is to accept advice or even correction from one who we know has our interests at heart.If Job has nothing to say, then let him listen silently and Elihu’s words will do him good. It is of course not easy for Job to receive this public correction from one who is younger than him, but right now, this is the messenger that God has sent to help him, and we must be willing to learn from all who are taught by God whatever their status. Naaman accepted the gentle correction of his servants (2 King 5:13).