23 For I dreaded destruction from God, and for fear of his splendor I could not do such things.
23 For destruction from God was a terror to me, and by reason of his highness I could not endure.
23 For I was in terror of calamity from God, and I could not have faced his majesty.
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!
23 For destruction from God is a terror to me, And because of His magnificence I cannot endure.
23 That would be better than facing God's judgment. For if the majesty of God opposes me, what hope is there?
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 31:23
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.