lihu 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)
Verses 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.
Verses 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.
Verses 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.
lihu 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)