Job 14:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 14:15
15 Thou shalt call, and I will answer thee: thou wilt have a desire to the work of thine hands.
Chapter Context
Job 14 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, truth, obedience. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 14:15
15 Thou shalt call, and I will answer thee: thou wilt have a desire to the work of thine hands.
Analysis
'Thou shalt call, and I will answer thee: thou wilt have a desire to the work of thine hands.' In this hypothetical resurrection scenario, God will 'call' (תִּקְרָא, tiqra) and Job will 'answer' (אֶעֱנֶה, e'eneh). God will 'desire' (תִּכְסֹף, tikhsof—long for, yearn) 'the work of [His] hands' (מַעֲשֵׂה יָדֶיךָ, ma'aseh yadekha). This beautiful image portrays God longing for His creatures, desiring restoration of relationship. It echoes the Father running to embrace the prodigal (Luke 15:20) and anticipates God dwelling with redeemed humanity (Revelation 21:3). Job glimpses God's heart—not a stern judge eager to condemn but a loving Creator yearning for His handiwork. The Reformed emphasis on God's electing love undergirds this hope.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern deities were often portrayed as capricious or indifferent. Job's vision of God longing for His creatures presented a radical alternative—a personal God who desires relationship with His creation.
Reflection
- How does understanding God desires us change how we relate to Him in suffering?
- What does it mean that the sovereign Creator longs for the work of His hands?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Job 7:21, 10:3, 10:8, 13:22, Psalms 138:8, 1 Thessalonians 4:17