“Hast thou heard the secret of God? And dost thou restrain wisdom to thyself?” (Job 15:8)
The Old Testament book of Job depicts the historical narrative of a man whose faith stood firm against the onslaught of Satan’s attacks as well as the untenable accusations of friends. In Job 15:8 we find one of his friends, Eliphaz, sarcastically asking Job, “Hast thou heard the secret of God? And dost thou restrain wisdom to thyself?” As unfounded as it was, this question is a reminder to all believers that a profound degree of humility is required in our pursuit of understanding God and His will.[1]
For Deuteronomy 29:29 explains, “The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.” Even Jesus Himself—the very living Word of God—primarily used parables to teach, revealing their underlying truths only to those closest to Him who wanted to listen and learn.
And yet in John 5:39, Jesus calls us to “search the scriptures… for they bear witness of me.” Further, both Deuteronomy 29:29 and 2 Peter 1:3 affirm that those truths essential for “life and godliness,” and for growing in faith and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ have indeed been revealed to us, as well as glimpses into such mysteries as the nature of the Trinity, the incarnation of Christ, and the life to come.
And among those secrets reserved for God alone include the thoughts and passions that reside deep in the hearts of every one of us (Jeremiah 17:10). And only God knows and controls the future. As Isaiah 46:10 proclaims, “Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure.”
At the same time, God desires to reveal Himself and His will to us and will do so when we walk in His presence and live holy before Him (Jeremiah 29:13). This is how we can begin to understand the mysteries of Scripture—not through our own intellect, but through the wisdom imparted by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:11). This transformation can be readily observed in those who, despite their lack of formal education, possess a deep and abiding understanding of God’s truths. This is the evidence, the fruit of a life lived in close, continual fellowship with God.
Our challenge as believers, then, is to see that we cultivate an intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father that is characterized by continual communication, obedience, and trust. In so doing, we open ourselves to learn the profound truths He desires to share with us.
Contemplations:
- The Mystery of Divine Wisdom: Job 15:8 reminds me that my level of knowledge and understanding is entirely lacking compared to God’s infinite wisdom… and that all true wisdom comes from seeking to know Him. This calls me to approach life with humility, realizing that an infinite body of knowledge is reserved for God alone. And yet, by seeking His guidance, I open myself to receive some of those deeper truths and insights.
- The Hidden Depths of the Heart: 1 Corinthians 2:11 affirms that only God can truly understand the depths of my heart and thoughts. Even when I’m unable to fully express my own emotions and motivations, God knows and understands them completely. This both comforts and encourages me to trust God with my innermost being, knowing that He searches my heart with perfect wisdom and love.
- Trusting God’s Sovereignty Over the Future: Isaiah 46:10 reminds me that God alone knows the future. This reality encourages me to trust in His sovereignty regardless of what happens, whether presently or in the future. And as I come to fully believe that truth, I am able to release my anxieties about what lies ahead and to rest in the assurance that His plans are perfect and His counsel will stand. Only then can I live with confidence and peace, knowing that God holds both me, and the future, in His hands.
- Walking in Intimacy with God: Proverbs 13:20 says, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise.” So what greater wisdom is there than walking with God? By prioritizing my relationship with Him, I gain insights and understanding that transcend human knowledge, for He delights in revealing His secrets to those who seek Him earnestly.
Further References for Job 15:8:
Jer. 23:18; Rom. 11:34; Psalm 25:14; Matthew 11:25
[1] Arthur Jackson, Annotations upon the Five Books Immediately Following the Historical Part of the Old Testament (London: Roger Daniel, for the author .., 1658), 104.
