Job 22:28

Your decisions will be carried out, and light will shine on your ways.

Study Bible

Your decisions will be carried out
This phrase suggests the power and authority given to a person whose life aligns with God's will. In the context of the Book of Job, Eliphaz is speaking to Job, implying that if Job repents and aligns himself with God, his plans will succeed. This reflects a broader biblical principle found in Proverbs 16:3, "Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established." The idea is that when one's decisions are in harmony with divine wisdom, they are more likely to come to fruition. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern belief in divine favor as a key to success.

and light will shine on your ways
Light in the Bible often symbolizes guidance, truth, and divine presence. Psalm 119:105 states, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path," indicating that God's guidance illuminates the path of the righteous. In the cultural context of the ancient world, light was a precious commodity, representing safety and clarity in a world often shrouded in darkness. This phrase suggests that those who follow God's ways will have clarity and direction in their lives. It also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus as the "light of the world" (John 8:12), who provides spiritual illumination and guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
- A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, known for his suffering and faithfulness.

2. Eliphaz the Temanite
- One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Eliphaz is speaking, offering his perspective on Job's situation.

3. Teman
- A region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz, being a Temanite, is considered to be a man of wisdom.

4. God
- The ultimate authority and sovereign being, whose ways and thoughts are higher than human understanding.

5. The Book of Job
- A poetic and philosophical book in the Old Testament that explores themes of suffering, justice, and the sovereignty of God.

Teaching Points

The Power of Righteous Decisions
When we align our decisions with God's will, they are more likely to succeed. This requires seeking God's guidance and wisdom in all our plans.

The Role of Light in Our Path
Light symbolizes clarity, guidance, and truth. When we walk in God's ways, His light illuminates our path, helping us to avoid pitfalls and make wise choices.

The Importance of Trusting God
Trusting in God's sovereignty and wisdom is crucial, especially when our plans do not unfold as expected. Faith in God's ultimate plan brings peace and assurance.

The Influence of Counsel
Eliphaz's advice, though well-intentioned, was not entirely accurate. It is important to discern and seek godly counsel that aligns with Scripture.

The Necessity of Humility
Recognizing our limitations and dependence on God fosters humility. We must submit our plans to God, acknowledging that His ways are higher than ours.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 22:28 encourage us to align our decisions with God's will, and what practical steps can we take to ensure this alignment?

2. In what ways does the concept of "light shining on your ways" manifest in a believer's life, and how can we cultivate this light?

3. Reflect on a time when your plans did not succeed. How can Job 22:28 and related scriptures provide comfort and guidance in such situations?

4. How can we discern between godly counsel and advice that may not align with Scripture, as seen in Eliphaz's interaction with Job?

5. How does the theme of humility in decision-making, as seen in James 4:13-15, relate to the message of Job 22:28, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:3
- This verse speaks about committing one's works to the Lord, which aligns with the idea of decisions being established by God.

Psalm 37:5-6
- These verses discuss committing your way to the Lord and trusting in Him, which results in God making your righteousness shine like the dawn.

James 4:13-15
- This passage warns against boasting about future plans without acknowledging God's will, emphasizing the need for humility in decision-making.