Job 11:13Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

You have fixed your heart and extended your hands to Him (Job 11:13). The phrase 'guarded heart' does not imply steadfastness in virtue, but rather a state of insensitivity. Whenever a soul truly contemplates the weight of its inner struggles, it becomes softened by fear; the wave of divine reverence penetrates its being, fostering internal humility. However, the individual who has hardened their heart through stubbornness is as if they have fortified themselves, rendering them impervious to the piercing arrows of divine fear. Therefore, the Lord compassionately declares through the prophet, "I will remove your stony heart and give you a heart of flesh" (Ezekiel 36:26).

The circumstances have shifted, and the implication is that if you heed My words, cleanse your heart, and extend your hands to the Lord in prayer, refraining from sin and wrongdoing, then what is promised to you shall be fulfilled as stated thereafter. It seems that Sophar encourages Job while also reproaching him, suggesting that he bears the consequences of his transgressions.

As if assuming the role of a guide, he appears to advise Job, stating, “Even if you are entirely blameless, and you always reach out in prayer when seeking something from God, be prepared to reject the wickedness that still lingers within you, and do not allow iniquity to take up residence in your life.” This conveys the idea that, should there be any sin in your life, it is essential not to let that evil establish itself within you. He expresses this because, by common understanding, a pure spirit must align with moral integrity. This aligns with the principle of keeping clean hands without anger or doubt (1 Tim. 2:8). However, he errs in believing that one can possess a pure heart while committing unjust actions. One might argue against him, illustrating that those who give to be recognized by others (cf. Matt. 6:1) only expose their corrupt hearts.

Sophar, the third of Job's friends, views Job's earlier discussions as mere chatter that fails to substantiate Job's claims of righteousness (11:1-3). He even asserts that if God had disclosed to Job the hidden reasons for his afflictions, it would likely reveal that Job warranted far harsher penalties for his transgressions (4-6). While humanity may struggle to grasp the full scope of God's plans, it is undeniable that the Lord permits trials to come upon individuals due to their inherent wickedness (7-11). Therefore, the most effective way to attain tranquility and a restored life is through a change in behavior; thus, the roots of suffering will dissolve on their own, leading to goodness (12-20).