Job sees that permanent good does not truly belong to the wicked, because God alone holds ultimate authority.
Job, who likely lived around 2000 BC in the land of Uz, is reflecting on the apparent prosperities of the wicked in stark contrast to the righteousness of God’s people. In his speech, he observes, “Behold, their prosperity is not in their hand; The counsel of the wicked is far from me.” (v.16) Job recognizes that outward wealth is not truly controlled by human effort. Although the wicked may accumulate possessions, they do not determine the final outcome of their fortunes. Even so, he places himself apart from them by declaring their advice is something he wants no part in since it stands diametrically opposed to God’s ways.
By stating “their prosperity is not in their hand,” (v.16) Job underscores a principle: it is ultimately God who balances justice in the universe. Job’s friends have insisted that apparent success must surely mean divine favor, but here Job suggests that the proud may enjoy a fleeting abundance without God’s blessing. The apostle Paul similarly reminds believers that the world’s prosperity does not equate to eternal gain, for true riches are found in righteousness and faith (see also 1 Timothy 6:17-19 for the concept of misplaced trust in wealth).
Job’s distinction “The counsel of the wicked is far from me” (v.16) portrays his determination not to adopt the sinful prerogatives of those who boast in earthly success. He refuses to adopt their flawed logic—that earthly circumstances measure God’s favor—recognizing instead that wisdom comes from trusting and following the Lord. In his ancient and enduring struggle, Job foreshadows the teaching that believers must preserve their moral and spiritual integrity regardless of worldly gain.
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Job 21:16 meaning
Job, who likely lived around 2000 BC in the land of Uz, is reflecting on the apparent prosperities of the wicked in stark contrast to the righteousness of God’s people. In his speech, he observes, “Behold, their prosperity is not in their hand; The counsel of the wicked is far from me.” (v.16) Job recognizes that outward wealth is not truly controlled by human effort. Although the wicked may accumulate possessions, they do not determine the final outcome of their fortunes. Even so, he places himself apart from them by declaring their advice is something he wants no part in since it stands diametrically opposed to God’s ways.
By stating “their prosperity is not in their hand,” (v.16) Job underscores a principle: it is ultimately God who balances justice in the universe. Job’s friends have insisted that apparent success must surely mean divine favor, but here Job suggests that the proud may enjoy a fleeting abundance without God’s blessing. The apostle Paul similarly reminds believers that the world’s prosperity does not equate to eternal gain, for true riches are found in righteousness and faith (see also 1 Timothy 6:17-19 for the concept of misplaced trust in wealth).
Job’s distinction “The counsel of the wicked is far from me” (v.16) portrays his determination not to adopt the sinful prerogatives of those who boast in earthly success. He refuses to adopt their flawed logic—that earthly circumstances measure God’s favor—recognizing instead that wisdom comes from trusting and following the Lord. In his ancient and enduring struggle, Job foreshadows the teaching that believers must preserve their moral and spiritual integrity regardless of worldly gain.