14 How much less shall I answer him,
And choose my words to argue with him? 15 Though I were righteous, yet I wouldn’t answer him.
I would make supplication to my judge. 16 If I had called, and he had answered me,
yet I wouldn’t believe that he listened to my voice. 17 For he breaks me with a storm,
and multiplies my wounds without cause. 18 He will not allow me to catch my breath,
but fills me with bitterness. 19 If it is a matter of strength, behold, he is mighty!
If of justice, ‘Who,’ says he, ‘will summon me?’ 20 Though I am righteous, my own mouth shall condemn me.
Though I am blameless, it shall prove me perverse. 21 I am blameless.
I don’t respect myself.
I despise my life.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 9:14-21
Commentary on Job 9:14-21
(Read Job 9:14-21)
Job is still righteous in his own eyes, 1, and this answer, though it sets forth the power and majesty of God, implies that the question between the afflicted and the Lord of providence, is a question of might, and not of right; and we begin to discover the evil fruits of pride and of a self-righteous spirit. Job begins to manifest a disposition to condemn God, that he may justify himself, for which he is afterwards reproved. Still Job knew so much of himself, that he durst not stand a trial. If we say, We have no sin, we not only deceive ourselves, but we affront God; for we sin in saying so, and give the lie to the Scripture. But Job reflected on God's goodness and justice in saying his affliction was without cause.