(Job 38:1-4 NKJV) (1) Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said: (2) “Who is this who darkens counsel By words without knowledge? (3) Now prepare yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer Me. (4) “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding.
On 6th November last year, I released a prophetic word about the impending geopolitical upheaval we were about to face. I made a comparison between Samson and Donald Trump, with the parallel of tearing down structures. I quote:
“As the world adjusts to the major power shift in the USA, geo-political shockwaves will tear into the fabric of civilisation as we know it. I sense a tear not only in the natural realm but in the spiritual realm also, a major shift in the firmament—trauma in the skies and turbulence in the seas. Gateways are being opened and governmental and religious structures will fall.”
I promised then to unpack this word, “From Pillar to Post” and I will do so in the posts that follow. First, it is essential to provide the proper context and perspective, one that Job eventually understood. This will provide the right lens through which to gaze upon the global theatre, and the sobering context that Job finally embraced.
Though a righteous man, Job endured unimaginable loss and desperately needed answers to his pain and a means to understand why such calamity had devastated his life. Throughout much of this book, the Lord is absent, leaving Job to contemplate his life and current suffering alongside his so-called advisors. Yet, despite their lengthy discussions, he remained without a definitive answer or consolation. You might say they had exhausted all rationale, perspectives and dubious wisdom available to them which denied Job little escape from the darkness of his uncertainty.
When God finally spoke, He did not provide direct answers to Job’s inquiries but instead presented a series of His own rhetorical questions, exposing Job’s limited understanding and power compared to His divine wisdom and omnipotence. For example:
“(4) “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. … (12) “Have you commanded the morning since your days began, And caused the dawn to know its place, (13) That it might take hold of the ends of the earth, And the wicked be shaken out of it? … (39) “Can you hunt the prey for the lion, Or satisfy the appetite of the young lions, (40) When they crouch in their dens, Or lurk in their lairs to lie in wait?” – Job 38:4, 12-13, 39-40 NKJV
In Job 38 and 39, God’s response serves as a humbling reminder. Job sought an explanation, but when God responded, it was not to explain but to emphasise His supreme wisdom, power, and sovereignty instead. God owes us no explanation. His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9), and His wisdom surpasses our understanding. When we attempt to grasp truths apart from humility, we risk darkening counsel with words without knowledge. True wisdom begins with reverence—acknowledging that He is God, and we are not. God is omniscient (all-knowing), omnipotent (all-powerful), and omnipresent (present everywhere). He was there before the foundations of the earth were laid. He has always been and always will be El Shaddai. Our finite minds cannot fully comprehend the infinite God, but we can trust Him.
Faith is not about having all the answers; it is about surrendering to the One who does.
As we look upon the various conflicts across the world—such as the war in Ukraine, the destabilisation of nations, and the global uncertainty—our need for an explanation rises considerably. We do not need to venture far to find human advocates or voices—the world of social media and abundance of news outlets has replaced Job’s comforters and provides a multitude of perspectives, opinion and political analysis. Today, as we witness the growing instability of nations, the sheer multitude of voices, opinions, and conflicting narratives can create a deafening cacophony. Political discourse, media rhetoric, and personal convictions often collide, leaving many polarised and entrenched in their positions. Perhaps we have also provided our own conjecture on such matters into this “cloud”,
but contrary to such noise, restraint is the hallmark of a life anchored in divine consolation. True wisdom is not found in endless debate, but in the quiet confidence of knowing that God is sovereign.
Let us always remember this lesson from Job, lest we too be accused of “darkening counsel By words without knowledge”. When God finally answered, He did not offer explanations but instead corrected Job’s perspective. Job’s response is deeply significant:
“Then Job answered the Lord and said: ‘Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer You? I lay my hand over my mouth. Once I have spoken, but I will not answer; Yes, twice, but I will proceed no further.’” (Job 40:3-5 NKJV)
After so many words—both Job’s and those of his friends—none had brought comfort or clarity. It was only when he encountered the wisdom and majesty of God that he understood the limits of his own reasoning. His response was not more words, but silence—an act of humility and surrender. This passage is relevant as it shifts the focus from human rationale and explanation to the acknowledgment of God’s ultimate authority and incomprehensibility. It underscores the idea that human beings cannot fully grasp the complexities of God’s plans or the reasons behind their suffering. For the Bride, this can be a call to trust in God’s wisdom and goodness, even when circumstances are difficult to understand. Like Job, may we learn to still our hearts before the Lord, trusting in His justice, His mercy, and His unfolding plan. In a world that urges us to take sides and speak endlessly, let us instead be a people who listen—first to God, and then to one another—seeking His perspective above all else.
Ultimately whatever unfolds in the visible realm is rooted in that which is unseen. God alone sees the full picture, and only through Him can true peace and justice be found. When we posture our hearts and minds before Him in surrender, we invite His guidance, His peace, and His divine strategy into our response. Let us be people of prayer, trusting that He is at work even in the chaos, aligning all things according to His perfect will.
A Personal Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
I come before You in humility, recognising that Your wisdom is beyond my understanding. Forgive me for the times I have sought answers more than I have sought You. In a world filled with noise, conflict, and uncertainty, help me to quiet my heart and listen for Your voice above all else.
Teach me to trust in Your sovereignty, to rest in Your divine wisdom, and to seek Your guidance more than human reasoning. When I am tempted to speak out of frustration or fear, remind me of Job’s response—silence in surrender before the majesty of God. Let my words be few but full of faith, and my actions be led by Your Spirit.
Lord, help me to walk in wisdom and humility, trusting Your ways beyond my own understanding. May I be a voice of peace, a vessel of prayer, and a light in the darkness. Use me to reflect Your truth in a world longing for hope.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
