18 (For from my youth he was brought up with me, as with a father, and I have guided her from my mother's womb;)
18 but from my youth I reared them as a father would, and from my birth I guided the widow-
18 (for from my youth the fatherless
18 Wasn't my home always open to them? Weren't they always welcome at my table?
18 (But from my youth I reared him as a father, And from my mother's womb I guided the widow);
18 No, from childhood I have cared for orphans like a father, and all my life I have cared for widows.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 31:18
Commentary on Job 31:16-23
(Read Job 31:16-23)
Job's conscience gave testimony concerning his just and charitable behaviour toward the poor. He is most large upon this head, because in this matter he was particularly accused. He was tender of all, and hurtful to none. Notice the principles by which Job was restrained from being uncharitable and unmerciful. He stood in awe of the Lord, as certainly against him, if he should wrong the poor. Regard to worldly interests may restrain a man from actual crimes; but the grace of God alone can make him hate, dread, and shun sinful thoughts and desires.