Matthew Henry Commentary Job 29:18-25

"Then I said, I shall die in my nest, And I shall multiply my days as the sand: My root is spread out to the waters, And the dew lieth all night upon my branch; My glory is fresh in me, And my bow is renewed in my hand. Unto me men gave ear, and waited, And kept silence for my counsel. After my words they spake not again; And my speech distilled upon them. And they waited for me as for the rain; And they opened their mouth wide [as] for the latter rain. I smiled on them, when they had no confidence; And the light of my countenance they cast not down. I chose out their way, and sat [as] chief, And dwelt as a king in the army, As one that comforteth the mourners." — Job 29:18-25 (ASV)

Being so honored and useful, Job had hoped to die in peace and honor, in a good old age. If such an expectation arises from lively faith in the providence and promise of God, it is well; but if from conceit of our own wisdom, and dependence on changeable, earthly things, it is ill-grounded, and turns to sin.

Everyone who has the spirit of wisdom does not necessarily have the spirit of government; but Job had both. Yet he had the tenderness of a comforter. This he reflected on with pleasure, when he was himself a mourner.

Our Lord Jesus is a King who hates iniquity, and upon whom the blessing of a world ready to perish comes. Let us listen to Him.