Job 20:15

He swallows wealth but vomits it out; God will force it from his stomach.

Study Bible

He swallows wealth
This phrase suggests the insatiable greed and consumption of wealth by the wicked. In the context of Job, it reflects the belief that those who accumulate wealth unjustly will ultimately find it unsatisfying. The imagery of "swallowing" wealth can be connected to the broader biblical theme of the futility of earthly riches, as seen in Ecclesiastes 5:10, where it is stated that those who love money will never have enough.

but vomits it out;
The act of vomiting wealth indicates a forced expulsion, suggesting that ill-gotten gains will not remain with the wicked. This can be seen as a divine retribution where the wealth that was greedily consumed is forcibly removed. This imagery is consistent with the biblical principle that what is unjustly gained will not bring lasting satisfaction or security, as echoed in Proverbs 13:11, which speaks of wealth gained hastily diminishing.

God will force it from his stomach.
This phrase emphasizes divine intervention and justice. It is God who ensures that the wicked cannot retain their ill-gotten wealth. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and justice, where He acts to uphold righteousness. The imagery of God forcing wealth from the stomach underscores the inevitability of divine judgment. This can be related to the broader biblical narrative of God's justice, as seen in the story of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21, where God calls the man to account for his misplaced trust in wealth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zophar the Naamathite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Zophar is known for his harsh and direct speeches, often emphasizing God's justice and the consequences of wickedness.

2. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, a man known for his righteousness and suffering. Job's account is a profound exploration of faith, suffering, and divine justice.

3. God
The ultimate authority and judge in the account. God's role is central in the unfolding of Job's trials and the eventual restoration.

4. Wealth
In this context, wealth symbolizes the material gains and prosperity that the wicked might acquire unjustly.

5. Justice
An underlying theme in Zophar's speech, emphasizing the divine retribution that awaits those who gain wealth through unrighteous means.

Teaching Points

The Temporary Nature of Ill-Gotten Wealth
Wealth acquired through unjust means is fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying. God ensures that such wealth does not bring lasting joy or security.

Divine Justice and Accountability
God holds individuals accountable for their actions, and there is a divine justice that ensures the wicked do not prosper indefinitely.

Contentment and Righteousness
True contentment comes from living a life of righteousness and integrity, rather than pursuing wealth at any cost.

The Consequences of Greed
Greed leads to destructive outcomes, both spiritually and materially. It is important to guard one's heart against the love of money.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zophar's perspective on wealth and justice reflect the broader themes of the Book of Job?

2. In what ways can the pursuit of wealth become a stumbling block in our spiritual lives, according to Job 20:15 and related scriptures?

3. How can we apply the principle of divine justice in our daily decision-making, especially in financial matters?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our pursuit of material success aligns with biblical values?

5. How does understanding the temporary nature of ill-gotten wealth influence our perspective on contentment and generosity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 13:11
This verse speaks about wealth gained hastily diminishing, which aligns with the idea that ill-gotten gains do not last.

Ecclesiastes 5:10
Discusses the futility of loving money and how it never satisfies, similar to the temporary nature of wealth described in Job 20:15.

1 Timothy 6:10
Warns about the love of money being the root of all kinds of evil, connecting to the consequences of pursuing wealth unrighteously.