In Job 35, Elihu continues his speech, challenging Job's understanding of God's justice. He argues that human righteousness or wickedness does not affect God directly; our actions neither benefit nor harm Him. Instead, Elihu suggests that our conduct affects those around us, not the Creator Himself.

Elihu further observes that people often cry out to God in their suffering, yet fail to acknowledge Him as their Maker. He adds that they do not recognise God as the one who gives songs in the night, who offers comfort and wisdom in the midst of pain. From Elihu’s perspective, God remains silent not because He is uncaring, but because human pride prevents genuine communion with Him. In saying this, however, Elihu risks wrongly associating Job’s cries with insincerity or arrogance.

While Elihu’s words are a reminder of God's sovereignty and the limitations of human understanding, they lack the tenderness that suffering hearts need. It is true that God’s ways are far above ours, and that we must trust in His wisdom even when life does not make sense. But it is equally true that our God is not aloof or indifferent. He is both high and holy, yet near to the brokenhearted.

In our suffering and challenges, it can be tempting to conclude that God, being sovereign, is distant. C.S. Lewis, writing in “A Grief Observed” after the death of his wife, confessed that he did not doubt God's sovereignty—but he feared losing belief in God's goodness. Such honesty reflects the tension many of us feel. When prayers seem unanswered and suffering persists, we may wrestle not just with God's sovereignty, but with His love.

Yet Scripture tells a fuller story. The God who is enthroned above the heavens is also the God who walked among us, who wept at a tomb, who bore the cross. He is not unmoved by our pain. Therefore, even when we do not understand His silence, we can trust His heart.

Are there moments when you’ve felt like your prayers were unheard, or that God was too far away to care? Take a moment to name those thoughts before the Lord. Let Job 35 remind you that while we may not fully grasp the reasons behind our trials, we can cling to the truth that God is both sovereign and good. His justice is perfect, and His heart is tender toward His children—even when we don’t see it.

Prayer :

Gracious God, You are mighty and beyond our understanding, yet You are also near to those who call on You in truth. Forgive us when we doubt Your goodness or question Your care. In our seasons of suffering and silence, teach us to trust not only in Your power, but in Your love. Help us to see that You are the God who gives songs in the night, the One who never leaves nor forsakes us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.