18 Then I thought, "I shall die in my nest, and I shall multiply my days like the phoenix; 19 my roots spread out to the waters, with the dew all night on my branches; 20 my glory was fresh with me, and my bow ever new in my hand.' 21 "They listened to me, and waited, and kept silence for my counsel. 22 After I spoke they did not speak again, and my word dropped upon them like dew. 23 They waited for me as for the rain; they opened their mouths as for the spring rain. 24 I smiled on them when they had no confidence; and the light of my countenance they did not extinguish. 25 I chose their way, and sat as chief, and I lived like a king among his troops, like one who comforts mourners.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 29:18-25
Commentary on Job 29:18-25
(Read Job 29:18-25)
Being thus honoured and useful, Job had hoped to die in peace and honour, in a good old age. If such an expectation arise from lively faith in the providence and promise of God, it is well; but if from conceit of our own wisdom, and dependence on changeable, earthly things, it is ill grounded, and turns to sin. Every one that has the spirit of wisdom, has not the spirit of government; but Job had both. Yet he had the tenderness of a comforter. This he thought upon with pleasure, when he was himself a mourner. Our Lord Jesus is a King who hates iniquity, and upon whom the blessing of a world ready to perish comes. To Him let us give ear.