Job 20:10

His sons will seek the favor of the poor, for his own hands must return his wealth.

Study Bible

His sons will seek the favor of the poor
This phrase suggests a reversal of fortune for the wicked. In the cultural context of the Ancient Near East, wealth and social status were often inherited, and the sons of a wealthy man would typically continue in prosperity. However, this passage indicates that the sons of the wicked will be reduced to seeking favor from those they once looked down upon. This reflects the biblical principle that God humbles the proud and exalts the humble (James 4:6). The idea of seeking favor implies a dependency and a need for mercy, which is a stark contrast to their previous position of power.

for his own hands must return his wealth
This part of the verse highlights the concept of divine justice. The wicked man's wealth, which was likely accumulated through unjust means, must be returned. This aligns with the biblical theme of restitution, as seen in the laws given to Israel (Exodus 22:1-4). The phrase "his own hands" suggests personal responsibility and accountability, emphasizing that the consequences of one's actions are inescapable. This can be seen as a type of prophetic warning, illustrating the ultimate futility of relying on material wealth rather than on God. The idea of returning wealth also connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's justice and the eventual restoration of righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zophar the Naamathite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Zophar is speaking, offering his perspective on the fate of the wicked.

2. Job
The central figure of the book, a man of great faith and patience who undergoes severe trials and suffering.

3. The Wicked
In this context, Zophar is describing the fate of the wicked, implying that Job's suffering is due to some hidden sin.

4. The Poor
Those who are disadvantaged or in need, whom the sons of the wicked will seek favor from, according to Zophar's speech.

5. Wealth
A central theme in this verse, representing both material possessions and the moral implications of how it is acquired and used.

Teaching Points

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Wealth
Wealth gained through unrighteous means is fleeting and will ultimately be lost or redistributed.

The Consequences of Sin
Sinful actions have repercussions not only for the individual but also for their descendants, as seen in the fate of the wicked's children.

God's Justice and Provision
God ensures that justice is served, often by elevating the humble and bringing down the proud, as seen in the reversal of fortunes.

The Importance of Righteous Living
True security and legacy come from living a life that honors God, rather than accumulating wealth through unjust means.

Compassion for the Poor
The verse highlights the importance of seeking favor with the poor, suggesting a call to compassion and justice in our dealings with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zophar's perspective on the fate of the wicked challenge or affirm your understanding of God's justice?

2. In what ways does the temporary nature of wealth influence your priorities and decisions in life?

3. How can we ensure that our actions today do not negatively impact future generations, as seen in the consequences faced by the wicked's children?

4. What practical steps can you take to seek favor with the poor and demonstrate God's love and justice in your community?

5. How do the themes of divine justice and reversal of fortunes in Job 20:10 connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 13:22
This verse speaks about the wealth of the sinner being stored up for the righteous, which parallels the idea of wealth being redistributed from the wicked to the poor.

Ecclesiastes 2:26
Discusses how God gives wisdom, knowledge, and happiness to those who please Him, but the sinner's wealth is gathered for the righteous.

Luke 1:53
Mary's Magnificat mentions how God fills the hungry with good things but sends the rich away empty, echoing the theme of divine justice and reversal of fortunes.