Job 12:16

Afrikaans (Contemporary Afrikaans Bible 2023)

By hom is krag en wysheid: syne is die wat mislei is en die bedrieër.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Job says that God has all the strength and wisdom. Both those who are tricked and those who trick others are under His control. Job is speaking and the main message is that God has total power over all situations.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a big box of toys, and you can decide who gets to play with which toy. God is like that big toy box, deciding who gets to do what. Even if someone tries to trick someone else, God knows all about it and is still in control.

Historical Background

Job is a book that likely dates back to the time of the patriarchs, before the Exodus. It explores the questions of why bad things happen to good people. The book is written as a dialogue between Job and his friends, with God intervening at the end, and it was written for the Israelite audience, who would have been grappling with similar questions of suffering and divine justice.

Living It Out Today

In a modern scenario, imagine someone at work who is always trying to trick others to get ahead. This verse reminds us that God sees everything and is in control, no matter how deceptive or manipulative someone might be. It encourages trust in God's ultimate control and justice.

Topics

• wisdom
• strength
• deception
• divine control
• trust
• justice

Related Verses

• Psalms 147:5
• Romans 11:33
• Proverbs 3:19
• Ephesians 1:17
• Isaiah 29:15

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is speaking in Job 12:16?

Job is speaking in this verse. He is responding to his friends' accusations and trying to affirm God's sovereignty over all situations.

What does it mean to say that the 'deceived and the deceiver are his'?

This phrase means that God has ultimate control over both those who are deceived and those who deceive. He is aware of all actions and is in charge of all outcomes.

How can this verse help in understanding God's sovereignty?

This verse emphasizes that God has complete control and wisdom over all circumstances, including those involving deception. It reinforces the idea that God is ultimately in charge, no matter how complex or confusing the situation may seem.

How can we apply this verse in our daily lives?

We can apply this verse by trusting in God's wisdom and control, even when we face difficult situations involving deception or misunderstanding. It encourages us to maintain faith that God's justice will prevail.