Job 7:11

Therefore, I will speak without restraint,

   I will give voice to the anguish of my spirit,

      I will complain out of the bitterness of my soul.

(Written 4/7, Posted 4/19)

I like this verse. It sets the stage for what is to come. Anguish of my spirit and bitterness of my soul are the basics of Job’s feelings. As those who serve and love others, we must account for the turmoil in the lives of others as we do so. It can be really hard, and it can be way out of our comfort zone, but that it why God gifts us and strengthens us beyond what we can imagine enabling us to do so.

One of the things I like about this verse is the repeating format “I will…”. One source messes this up with “would” in place of “will” in the last two places. An injustice in my mind. My least favorite poet source deletes the who form for something totally different and “normal”. Another example of why he is not my favorite. His translation is fine, but I was just more impacted by the form than the message.

Only one source had the verb/subject before the restraining part, but I much preferred it. “Restrain” was selected over “refrain” or “keep silent”. “Speak” was often “mouth”, but I was more bound to the order to “speak without restraint” than the alternative “restrain my mouth”.

“Give voice” was selected over “speak” that was used in the first stitch and “lament” which is perfectly valid, but of a different image. The only variations to “anguish of” were “agony of”, “dejected”, and “in straights”. “Dejected” was not powerful enough, “agony” was fine, but “in straights” just seemed out of place.

“My being” was a suggestion for “my soul” but did not fit my Biblical world view. “Speak” was an alternative for “complain”, but “complain” was just the right word.

I want to improve and therefore, I want to get better every day. I had a less than reassuring piece of feedback yesterday and I am working hard to modify my behavior to account for it. I cannot do it in and of my own self, but I know God can do so with the lead of the Holy Spirit. I expect that it will be one of the “thorn in the side” things that will crop up every time I am not diligent. In some way, it has lessened the drive for me to be efficient and reminded me that effectiveness is more important. I recognize how this verse is used to make what comes later more effective. I need to learn from Job. Even how to complain more effectively.