Job 11  Job's 3rd friend, Zophar takes his turn answering Job.  He is even more intense in condemning Job.  His message indicates that not only does Job need to repent, but that Job doesn't even know God at all..

Job 12-14 brings Job's reply to these friends who have turned accusers.

Job perceives that the three men are judging him and feeling as if they know more than him.  He defends himself and argues that he has as much intelligence as they do.  He also proves that he does know God.  He does not want to argue with his friends, but he does want a chance to argue with God.

Like the other times that Job has spoken, he turns from speaking to the men, and begins to address the Lord. (13:18 - 14:22)  "Behold now, I have prepared my case; I know that I will be vindicated."
He asks God to come and tell him why these things have happened.  What sin he committed to deserve such agony? ' Make know to me my rebellion and my sin."  He speaks of the shortness of life and the loss of hope. He confesses that it is all in God's hands, but he wonders if he will hear from Him again.

Like Job, we sometimes want to defend ourselves and we might even want to argue with the Lord.  But , like Job, we must also continue to trust in Him Who numbers our days and knows our hearts.

Everlasting Father who lives forever and ever, You are the Ancient of Days.  Every day is written by You.. for each of us.  You set the limit to our lives here on earth and You have promised to bring us into real Life.. everlasting life, through Christ Jesus our Lord.  We look forward to the day that Daniel wrote about from his dreams.  " And behold, with the clouds of heaven One like a Son of Man was coming, and He came up to the Ancient of Days and was presented before Him.  And to Him was given dominion, glory, and a kingdom, that all the peoples, nations, and men of every language might serve Him.  His dominion is an everlasting dominion which will not pass away; and His kingdom is on which will not be destroyed."  Hallelujah!  Amen!