(18) В¶ Then I said, I shall die in my nest, and I shall multiply my days as the sand. (19) My root was spread out by the waters, and the dew lay all night upon my branch. (20) My glory was fresh in me, and my bow was renewed in my hand. (21) Unto me men gave ear, and waited, and kept silence at my counsel. (22) After my words they spake not again; and my speech dropped upon them. (23) And they waited for me as for the rain; and they opened their mouth wide as for the latter rain. (24) If I laughed on them, they believed it not; and the light of my countenance they cast not down. (25) I chose out their way, and sat chief, and dwelt as a king in the army, as one that comforteth the mourners.
Here we find Job, in his own character, speaking of himself, and giving proofs of belonging to the fallen race of men, of like passions with ourselves: many favourable accounts of himself, mingled with much self-confidence and taking complacency, in what he had been and what he had done. Precious JESUS! how refreshing is it to see, that all thy people, after all their attainments, and all the bestowed grace upon them, plainly testify the hole of the pit from whence they are taken. Yes, blessed Redeemer! as the word of thy grace represents, and the experience of thy people confirms, it is thou, and thou only, that art holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens. Hail, thou Holy One of Israel, the LORD our righteousness!