What happensPermalink
In contrast to his former honor, Job is now mocked by younger men, whose fathers he would not have trusted with his dogs. They sing against him, spit at him, and attack like a siege force. His honor is blown away, his body is racked with pain, and God seems to have cast him into dust and ashes. Job cries for help, but receives no answer.
Why it mattersPermalink
Job 30 completes the reversal of Job 29: light becomes darkness, honor becomes contempt, service becomes abandonment, and expected good becomes evil. Job once used his power to defend the needy, but now, in need himself, neither people nor God seem to show mercy. His words about God are lamentations, not doctrine; they reveal the depth of his bewilderment.
Key versePermalink
I cry to you for help and you do not answer me; I stand, and you only look at me.