Job 13:20 reminds us that we can request God’s gentle hand so we might draw near to Him in confidence.
Job lived in the land of Uz, located somewhere in the Fertile Crescent and possibly placing him around the time of the early patriarchs. In Job 13:20, he continues his heartfelt plea to the Lord, seeking relief from divine scrutiny and longing for a face-to-face meeting. Job expresses his desire for openness, saying, “Only two things do not do to me, Then I will not hide from Your face;” (v.20). Here, Job shows an earnest hope for God’s restraint from harsh judgment, holding onto the expectation that he can maintain a sincere and honest relationship with Him despite his anguish.
This verse is part of a larger speech in which Job appeals directly to the Almighty, asking for understanding of his circumstances rather than condemnation. The phrase “Then I will not hide from Your face” (v.20) underscores Job’s willingness to be completely exposed before his Creator, so long as God refrains from overburdening him with unimaginable trials. Job’s integrity allows him to welcome a divine encounter without fear, believing that God will hear him out in the midst of his suffering.
The deep trust seen in Job 13:20 can lead believers to consider how they also might appeal directly to God, without shame or hesitation. In the New Testament, Jesus calls people to approach the Father with a sincere heart, casting all anxieties on Him (1 Peter 5:7). This constant theme—venturing into the open presence of a loving yet powerful God—invites followers to cultivate a steadfast faith, just as Job did in the ancient world.
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Job 13:20 meaning
Job lived in the land of Uz, located somewhere in the Fertile Crescent and possibly placing him around the time of the early patriarchs. In Job 13:20, he continues his heartfelt plea to the Lord, seeking relief from divine scrutiny and longing for a face-to-face meeting. Job expresses his desire for openness, saying, “Only two things do not do to me, Then I will not hide from Your face;” (v.20). Here, Job shows an earnest hope for God’s restraint from harsh judgment, holding onto the expectation that he can maintain a sincere and honest relationship with Him despite his anguish.
This verse is part of a larger speech in which Job appeals directly to the Almighty, asking for understanding of his circumstances rather than condemnation. The phrase “Then I will not hide from Your face” (v.20) underscores Job’s willingness to be completely exposed before his Creator, so long as God refrains from overburdening him with unimaginable trials. Job’s integrity allows him to welcome a divine encounter without fear, believing that God will hear him out in the midst of his suffering.
The deep trust seen in Job 13:20 can lead believers to consider how they also might appeal directly to God, without shame or hesitation. In the New Testament, Jesus calls people to approach the Father with a sincere heart, casting all anxieties on Him (1 Peter 5:7). This constant theme—venturing into the open presence of a loving yet powerful God—invites followers to cultivate a steadfast faith, just as Job did in the ancient world.