16 "Have I ignored the needs of the poor, turned my back on the indigent, 17 Taken care of my own needs and fed my own face while they languished? 18 Wasn't my home always open to them? Weren't they always welcome at my table? 19 "Have I ever left a poor family shivering in the cold when they had no warm clothes? 20 Didn't the poor bless me when they saw me coming, knowing I'd brought coats from my closet? 21 "If I've ever used my strength and influence to take advantage of the unfortunate, 22 Go ahead, break both my arms, cut off all my fingers! 23 The fear of God has kept me from these things - how else could I ever face him? If Only Someone Would Give Me a Hearing!
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 31:16-23
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.