#soap # Job 20 ## Title: Evil is Temporary ## Scripture: (Job 20:4-5) “Surely you know that it has been from old, ever since humankind was placed on the earth, that the elation of the wicked is brief, the joy of the godless lasts but a moment. (NET) ## Observation: In our text today, Zophar replies to Job. He reminds Job that evil may seem permanent, but it doesn’t last forever. In the eyes of God, it is a mere second. This is both small and great comfort. It is great comfort because we have hope that evil will not afflict us forever and that it will be ultimately punished. No one gets away with what they do. Even if they are not properly punished in this life, they will not escape eternity and God’s justice. However, it is also a small comfort when we are left to pick up the pieces of evil. This is one of the reasons the Cross of Jesus is so powerful. God did not shout His love from Heaven. Jesus came among us, walked with us, and suffered for us. He endured the worst punishment imaginable even though He was the only truly innocent man to ever live. He did that for us. Therefore, when we experience evil, He understands. He walks with us. ## Application: Trust in the Lord both now and always. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for understanding our pain.