We all have asked questions to which we do not necessarily require an answer, or to which we have presumed no reply. As a child, when one of our parents heatedly asked, "Do I look stupid?" they were not seeking a reply from us; it was to our great discretion not to answer.
In the above verses, Bildad the Shuhite makes an assertion in the form of two questions, which, although they are true, did not require an answer from Job. However, Bildad followed it with an absolute statement based upon his fallacious conjecture concerning God's justice and righteousness, yet subverting God's grace. He assumes because Job's children have been killed, they are suffering the consequences of their sins; therefore he makes a presumptuous remark in ignorance.
Wisdom and knowledge do not come merely from our study of the Word of God, but also from our relationship with him and experience of spiritual growth and maturity through his Spirit. As we develop in our relationship with God, we will come to realize our "absolutes" are based more on his Word and less upon our feelings and emotions. In this we will deal with others in God's grace and love rather than judgment and condemnation.
Lord, develop in me the discernment of your Spirit, whereby my absolutes are based upon your Word and not upon my misleading feelings. I want to walk and talk in your integrity.
Robin Buchanan, Princeton, W.Va.
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