Job 36:7 “He does not take his eyes off the righteous; he enthrones them with kings and exalts them forever.”
Extended Explanation of Job 36:7
In Job 36:7, Elihu, who is speaking to Job and his friends, describes God’s special care and attention toward the righteous. He says that God “does not take his eyes off the righteous,” emphasizing that God is constantly watching over those who follow Him. This isn’t a detached kind of watching; it’s a watchful care that suggests closeness, protection, and deep concern.
Elihu goes on to say that God “enthrones them with kings and exalts them forever.” This imagery of honor and exaltation shows that God values and lifts up the righteous, placing them in positions of importance. Even if they face hardships in this life, they have a lasting hope and purpose because God sees them and has a plan to honor them.
Historical Context
The Book of Job is set in an ancient context where prosperity and success were commonly associated with God’s favor, while suffering was often seen as punishment for wrongdoing. Job, however, challenges these assumptions. He is a man known for his faithfulness and righteousness, yet he suffers deeply, losing his family, health, and possessions. His friends have argued that his suffering must be a result of some hidden sin, while Job insists on his innocence.
Elihu offers a different perspective, suggesting that suffering isn’t necessarily a punishment but can serve a larger purpose. In this verse, he emphasizes that God’s care is steadfast; God does not forget the righteous even in times of difficulty. This would have been a powerful assurance to Job, who feels abandoned and misunderstood in his suffering.
Theological Implications
Job 36:7 gives us a picture of God’s steadfast faithfulness. It assures us that God is always aware of the righteous and that He honors their faithfulness. This verse reflects God’s commitment to His people, reassuring us that God’s attention is never withdrawn, even in challenging times.
The promise that God “exalts them forever” highlights the eternal nature of God’s rewards for the faithful. While earthly circumstances may fluctuate, God’s recognition and honor for those who trust in Him is everlasting. This verse also points us toward the hope of eternal life, where the faithful will ultimately be lifted up and honored in God’s presence.
Literary Analysis
The language in Job 36:7 is poetic and vivid, using imagery of royalty and eternal exaltation. Elihu’s description of God’s care as constant—“He does not take his eyes off the righteous”—is particularly powerful. It communicates a sense of God’s closeness and His attentive involvement in the lives of those who are faithful to Him.
This verse contrasts with the previous parts of Job’s story, where Job feels distant from God. Elihu’s words serve to reassure Job that God has not forgotten him, that God’s attention and care remain constant. The language of “enthroning with kings” and “exalting forever” prepares the reader for the greater understanding of God’s justice and goodness that Job will encounter when God speaks directly later in the book.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 34:15 – “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry.” This verse reflects God’s close attention and care for those who are faithful to Him.
- Psalm 37:23-24 – “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.” This verse emphasizes God’s sustaining presence in the lives of the righteous.
- 1 Peter 5:6 – “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” This verse speaks to God’s promise to exalt those who are faithful to Him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Job 36:7 is a reminder that God’s care is always with us. Even in times of trouble or when life feels uncertain, we can take comfort in knowing that God’s attention never wavers. He is always present, actively watching over us and working for our good.
This verse also reminds us of the eternal rewards for those who follow God. Life may bring struggles, but God promises to lift up the faithful in His time. The promise of eternal exaltation is a powerful encouragement, reminding us that our efforts to live faithfully will be honored by God forever.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Job 36:7 highlights God’s love for His people in a deeply personal way. It shows us that God’s love isn’t distant or indifferent but closely involved. God’s love is demonstrated in His continual attention to the lives of those who trust in Him. He doesn’t just see us from afar; He watches over us, guides us, and promises to honor and protect us.
This verse reassures us that God’s love is unchanging. Even if we face hard times, His watchful care doesn’t waver. This reflects a love that is constant and dependable, offering us security and peace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Job 36:7 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jesus, who is often described as the King of kings, is the one who offers eternal life and honor to those who follow Him. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus provides a way for us to be reconciled with God and receive the eternal life that Job 36:7 hints at.
In the New Testament, Jesus talks about the reward for those who are faithful to God, promising that they will inherit the kingdom (Matthew 5:3-12). Jesus’s death and resurrection make it possible for us to be “enthroned” with Him, sharing in His victory over sin and death. This verse points forward to the hope Christians have in Jesus: a life spent with Him, eternally honored and loved.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that God “does not take his eyes off the righteous” bring comfort to you in times of difficulty?
- Have you ever felt overlooked or forgotten by God? How does this verse encourage you in those moments?
- What does it mean to you that God promises to “exalt” the righteous?
- How can you reflect God’s care and attention in your relationships with others?
- How does Jesus’s promise of eternal life and honor deepen your understanding of this verse?
Job 36:7 is a beautiful reminder that God’s eyes are always on us, and His plans for us are good and eternal. As we walk in faith, we can trust in His loving care, knowing that He is always present, always watching, and always ready to lift us up.