elihu

interesting * this elihu character is described as young and yet he recognizes that the last three friends of job weren't really addressing his complaints against God?!?!
chapter 32 cycles through elihu's reasoning for waiting to speak
but chapter 33 gets into some meat and potatoes; he explains that job shouldn't be boasting about anything.  because GOD IS GREATER THAN MAN.  he explains that God isn't silent.  He speaks "now one way, now another".  job just hasn't been listening.  elihu also explains that trials and tribulations can happen because God is trying to draw his sheep back.  he points out that "if there is an angel on his side..." that angel can be a mediator and can negotiate a ransom.  I suppose elihu might be talking about Jesus?
chapter 34 argues that its ridiculous that job would say that God could do wrong.  that he could possibly be unfair.  he even goes so far as to say that job is answering like a wicked man and he deserves what's coming.
chapter 35 I think kind of replays all the bad press job is giving God.
chapter 36 seems to open with elihu speaking of the Holy Spirit.  he's laying out that God is working through him.  he talks about how the bad things that are happening to men are really a call back to God.  God is requesting that these wrong doers repent and when they do they will be content.  sigh.  contentment.  isn't that really truly the best gift of all?  after this there is a ton of beautiful poetry...
job 36:27  He draws up the drops of water, which distill as rain to the streams;  the clouds pour down their moisture and abundant showers fall on mankind.  Who can understand how he spreads out the clouds, how he thunders from his pavilion?  See how he scatters his lightning about him, bathing the depths of the sea.  This is the way he governs the nations and provides food in abundance.  He fills his hands with lightning and commands it to strike its mark.  His thunder announces the coming storm; even the cattle make known its approach.
chapter 37 rejoices with glory!  talks about elihu being excited and anxious.  more and more poetry about God's great works :) and he inquires of job that he "stop and consider God's wonders".  he also points out that we humans are really no comparison.  "in His justice and great righteousness, He does not oppress...for does he not have regard for all the wise in heart?"

dear Lord ~please make me wise in the heart.