| Geneva Study Bible Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. Scofield Reference Notes [1] Wherefore I abhor myself The problem, of which the book of Job is the profound discussion, finds here its solution. Brought into the presence of God, Job is revealed to himself. In no sense a hypocrite, but godly and possessing a faith which all his afflictions could not shake, Job was yet self-righteous and lacking in humility. Chapter 29 fully discloses this. But in the presence of God he anticipates, as it were, the experience of Paul. Phil 3:4-9 and the problem is solved. The godly are afflicted that they may be brought to self-knowledge and self-judgment. Such afflictions are not penal for their sins, but remedial and purifying. The book of Job affords a sublime illustration of the truth announced in 1Cor 11:31,32 Heb 12:7-11. Best of all, such self-knowledge and self-judgment is the prelude to greater fruitfulness. Job 42:7-17 Jn 15:2. Cf. Josh 5:13,14 Ezek 1:28 Ezek 2:1-3 Dan 10:5-11 Rev 1:17-19. Margin repent See Scofield Note: "Zech 8:14". Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary 6. myself-rather "I abhor," and retract the rash speeches I made against thee (Job 42:3, 4) [Umbreit]. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary 42:1-6 Job was now sensible of his guilt; he would no longer speak in his own excuse; he abhorred himself as a sinner in heart and life, especially for murmuring against God, and took shame to himself. When the understanding is enlightened by the Spirit of grace, our knowledge of Divine things as far exceeds what we had before, as the sight of the eyes excels report and common fame. By the teachings of men, God reveals his Son to us; but by the teachings of his Spirit he reveals his Son in us, Ga 1:16, and changes us into the same image, 2Co 3:18. It concerns us to be deeply humbled for the sins of which we are convinced. Self-loathing is ever the companion of true repentance. The Lord will bring those whom he loveth, to adore him in self-abasement; while true grace will always lead them to confess their sins without self-justifying. | 
