God’s power to redeem surpasses every possible catastrophe.
Eliphaz of Teman, who lived during the patriarchal period—likely around the time of Abraham—offers a bold reassurance of God’s deliverance to Job in his distress. He declares, “From six troubles He will deliver you, Even in seven evil will not touch you.” (v.19) The number “six” in Scripture often signifies multiple hardships, and “seven” can symbolize completeness. Here, Eliphaz underscores the notion that no matter how intense or numerous the trials may be, God’s capacity to rescue is always one step further than the sum of afflictions faced. In proclaiming that “evil will not touch you” even in the seventh trouble, this passage highlights a divine power that transcends human limits, assuring the faithful that the Lord’s protection can extend beyond the greatest conceivable threat.
This verse also subtly addresses God’s sovereignty and loving kindness. Where circumstances appear dire and hopeless, Eliphaz reminds Job that God is not only present but fully capable of intervening in each hardship. This comforting picture resonates with other scriptural teachings that emphasize God’s faithfulness to deliver His people, such as Psalm 34:19, where the righteous are rescued out of all their trials. Though Job’s situation was grim, Eliphaz’s counsel points to the ultimate source of hope, grounding it in the boundless ability of the Almighty to preserve and uphold.
Furthermore, this promise challenges the believer to recognize that divine help may not always align with human expectations or timing. Job’s arduous journey is a testament that even in great suffering, God remains in control. While Eliphaz’s perspective might not account for the mysterious ways God’s plans can unfold, his declaration nonetheless testifies to a timeless truth: God’s deliverance stands ready at every stage.
Job 5:19 meaning
Eliphaz of Teman, who lived during the patriarchal period—likely around the time of Abraham—offers a bold reassurance of God’s deliverance to Job in his distress. He declares, “From six troubles He will deliver you, Even in seven evil will not touch you.” (v.19) The number “six” in Scripture often signifies multiple hardships, and “seven” can symbolize completeness. Here, Eliphaz underscores the notion that no matter how intense or numerous the trials may be, God’s capacity to rescue is always one step further than the sum of afflictions faced. In proclaiming that “evil will not touch you” even in the seventh trouble, this passage highlights a divine power that transcends human limits, assuring the faithful that the Lord’s protection can extend beyond the greatest conceivable threat.
This verse also subtly addresses God’s sovereignty and loving kindness. Where circumstances appear dire and hopeless, Eliphaz reminds Job that God is not only present but fully capable of intervening in each hardship. This comforting picture resonates with other scriptural teachings that emphasize God’s faithfulness to deliver His people, such as Psalm 34:19, where the righteous are rescued out of all their trials. Though Job’s situation was grim, Eliphaz’s counsel points to the ultimate source of hope, grounding it in the boundless ability of the Almighty to preserve and uphold.
Furthermore, this promise challenges the believer to recognize that divine help may not always align with human expectations or timing. Job’s arduous journey is a testament that even in great suffering, God remains in control. While Eliphaz’s perspective might not account for the mysterious ways God’s plans can unfold, his declaration nonetheless testifies to a timeless truth: God’s deliverance stands ready at every stage.