Job 31:13–15
Have you ever wondered how our treatment of others reflects our relationship with God?
In contemplating the noble character of Job, we encounter a fascinating passage where he shares his perspective on his servants. He speaks of an unwavering commitment to their well-being, as he dared not exploit them in the presence of God. A captivating question arises when he contemplates his servants.
“If I have rejected the claim of my male or female slaves when they filed a complaint against me, what then could I do when God arises? And when He calls me to account, how am I to answer Him? Did He who made me in the womb not make him, and the same one create us in the womb?” (Job 31:13–15).
Examining the historical context, we find the words “servant” and “slave” had similar meanings, but today they carry distinct connotations. Servants are no longer seen as slaves. The word “ebed,” which Job used, referred to someone who relied on another person and had a certain relationship with them.
Being a servant could even be an honorable position. Everyone is a servant or slave to someone else, so Job had authority over his servants, and they were expected to obey him. People during that time didn’t view this term as negatively as we do today.
Central to Job’s wisdom was the recognition that both servants and masters were created by the same God and held equal value. They were formed in the same way, with care and purpose. He made sure to listen to his servants’ complaints and treated them fairly. He believed that if he rejected their just pleas, God would not listen to his own prayers.
This story teaches us an important lesson about how we should treat those who depend on us or whom we have authority over. It reminds us to be kind and fair to others.
Job’s extraordinary example showcases how our relationship with God influences our interactions with people. We should strive to be righteous and treat others with respect and fairness, recognizing the responsibility that comes with our positions of power.
For the next devotion in the Job series click here.
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