When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble? and when he hideth his face, who then can behold him? whether it be done against a nation, or against a man only:
When God brings peace, who can cause trouble? And when God chooses to hide himself, who can see him? This applies whether he's dealing with an entire nation or just one person.
This verse teaches that God has complete control over peace and trouble, and over whether he reveals himself or remains hidden - both for individuals and whole nations.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Job, which is set in the ancient patriarchal period of the Near East, Job is depicted as a righteous man who endures severe suffering as part of a divine test to demonstrate his faithfulness. Elihu, a younger figure in the story, delivers a speech defending God's sovereignty and wisdom against Job's complaints and his friends' flawed arguments. This verse specifically underscores Elihu's point that God's actions in granting peace or withdrawing His presence are unchallengeable, affecting both individuals and nations.
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