Deception and Fraud

To Eliphaz, the facts were clear. Based on the problems Job had experienced, he could not be as innocent as he appeared. He must have been motivated by “guilt.” The Hebrew word suggests moral evil and perversity. This word was used to describe the punishment Cain received after killing Esau, and the punishment given to Sodom. Eliphaz also accused Job of being “crafty,” using the same word that described the serpent in the Garden of Eden.

Eliphaz claimed that Job was condemned by his own words-that he had elevated himself above God. He was like the wicked man who “writhes in pain all his days.” It was a horrible existence, filled with the “sounds of terror.” Why had this happened? “Because he has stretched out his hand against God,” Eliphaz concluded. Such men will “not escape from darkness” (vs. 21-30).

As he looked at Job’s life, Eliphaz concluded that Job must be in this class. In fact, to Eliphaz, Job’s problems proved that he must be a deceiver and a fraud.

But the facts were different. The Bible tells us that Job’s problems were not the result of sin. He was not a deceiver or a fraud, but truly was blameless and innocent. He simply was going through problems to test his character and prove his core values.

All of us face the reality that others are judging our conduct, evaluating our behavior, and forming opinions about our actions. The story of Eliphaz demonstrates that these opinions can be wrong, even if they appear to be true and are consistent with public opinion.

Today, be careful before you judge others. Remember Jesus’ warning: “Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned” (Luke 6:37). Surrender your mind and heart to God. Let Him give you His wisdom.