The speech of Eliphaz, like those of the other friends, brought no comfort to Job. Instead, it deepened his confusion and pain over the situation he was facing. If only Job knew where to find God, he would go to Him and plead his case, seeking to make sense of why such devastating tragedy had come upon him. (v4-6) Job sincerely believed he had not committed any wrong that deserved such punishment. He was confident that if he could present his case before God, he would be vindicated and set free from this trial, because he trusted in the goodness and justice of God. (v7)

However, despite Job’s longing to encounter God, he confessed that he could not find Him. No matter how sincerely or diligently he searched, God remained hidden behind a barrier impossible for Job to cross. (v8-9) Even though Job could not understand what God was doing and could not locate His presence, he still held on to the truth that God was all-knowing—God knew Job’s way.

Job reflected that perhaps God was sanctifying him through this fiery trial. Therefore, Job resolved to hold fast to God. Even without clear answers, even though God's hand seemed hidden, Job treasured God’s words more than his necessary food (v10-12). His trust in God's character anchored him when everything else seemed uncertain.

Job acknowledged that God is unchangeable:

“But He is unchangeable, and who can turn Him back? What He desires, that He does” (v13).

This mirrors the declaration in Deuteronomy 6:4—“The Lord our God, the Lord is ONE.” God's unchangeable nature means He alone reigns supreme, and no one can alter His plans. Even with Job’s deep and sincere trust, he understood he could not manipulate or compel God to act differently. What God has purposed, He will surely bring to pass. At the end of it all, Job recognized that his life was fully in the hands of his sovereign Master, who would do what pleased Him.

Reflecting personally, I grew up in a household where my father made the final decisions. I remember as a child, longing for fast food on weekends. Yet often, my father would firmly decide on Chinese cuisine instead. When I protested, he would reply, “In my house, I am in charge, and you have no say over what the family eats.” It wasn't that he didn't love me—after all, I did get McDonald's once in a while—but he made it clear: he had the final authority, and I learn over the years to submit to him, trusting him to lead the family.

Similarly, in today’s generation, we often emphasize God’s grace and love (which is precious and true!) to such an extent that we can fall into the dangerous misconception that we can twist God's arm to get our way. We must remember: God is not subject to our whims. He is our loving Father, but He remains sovereign and has the final say in our lives.

Dear brothers and sisters, this knowledge should not lead us to despair, but rather to a deep sense of reverence and trust in the Lord. Knowing that God is unchanging, all-knowing, and sovereign anchors our hearts when life feels chaotic and confusing. Because God is in control, we can be at rest. Like Job, we are called to trust in God's goodness and cling to His word, even when we cannot see His hand.

Prayer: God, I understand from the text today that You are unchangeable. You are sovereign and your ways are higher than the ways of man. When I don't understand what You are doing, help me to trust in who You are. Teach me to rest in Your plans, knowing that You are working for my good and for Your glory. Help me treasure Your Word and submit to Your loving authority. In Jesus’ name, Amen.