‏ Job 37

* Elihu observes the power of God. (1-13) Job required to

explain the works of nature. (14-20) God is great, and is to be

feared. (21-24)

1-13 The changes of the weather are the subject of a great deal

of our thoughts and common talk; but how seldom do we think and

speak of these things, as Elihu, with a regard to God, the

director of them! We must notice the glory of God, not only in

the thunder and lightning, but in the more common and less awful

changes of the weather; as the snow and rain. Nature directs all

creatures to shelter themselves from a storm; and shall man only

be unprovided with a refuge? Oh that men would listen to the

voice of God, who in many ways warns them to flee from the wrath

to come; and invites them to accept his salvation, and to be

happy. The ill opinion which men entertain of the Divine

direction, peculiarly appears in their murmurs about the

weather, though the whole result of the year proves the folly of

their complaints. Believers should avoid this; no days are bad

as God makes them, though we make many bad by our sins. 14-20 Due thoughts of the works of God will help to reconcile

us to all his providences. As God has a powerful, freezing north

wind, so he has a thawing, composing south wind: the Spirit is

compared to both, because he both convinces and comforts, #So

4:16|. The best of men are much in the dark concerning the

glorious perfections of the Divine nature and the Divine

government. Those who, through grace, know much of God, know

nothing, in comparison with what is to be known, and of what

will be known, when that which is perfect is come. 21-24 Elihu concludes his discourse with some great sayings

concerning the glory of God. Light always is, but is not always

to be seen. When clouds come between, the sun is darkened in the

clear day. The light of God's favour shines ever towards his

faithful servants, though it be not always seen. Sins are

clouds, and often hinder us from seeing that bright light which

is in the face of God. Also, as to those thick clouds of sorrow

which often darken our minds, the Lord hath a wind which passes

and clears them away. What is that wind? It is his Holy Spirit.

As the wind dispels and sweeps away the clouds which are

gathered in the air, so the Spirit of God clears our souls from

the clouds and fogs of ignorance and unbelief, of sin and lust.

From all these clouds the Holy Spirit of God frees us in the

work of regeneration. And from all the clouds which trouble our

consciences, the Holy Spirit sets us free in the work of

consolation. Now that God is about to speak, Elihu delivers a

few words, as the sum of all his discourse. With God is terrible

majesty. Sooner or later all men shall fear him.