Definition: What then shall I do when God riseth up? and when he visiteth, what shall I answer him?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly famous verse from Job 31:14. It’s a really profound question, and it’s packed with meaning! Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about resilience and faith in the face of overwhelming difficulty. It’s asking what a person who’s experiencing great hardship – perhaps facing a terrible situation or loss – should do when God appears. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “What then shall I do when God riseth up?” - This is a big question mark! It suggests that God's presence is coming, and we don’t know exactly what will happen. It implies a significant shift in the world. “and when he visiteth, what shall I answer him?” – This is where it gets really interesting. God is about to come into our lives. What does this mean for us? It's not just about responding to God; it’s about how we respond to Him . Putting it all together - A Possible Interpretation: Job 31:14 isn’t saying, “I’ll do something specific.” Instead, it suggests a call to remain steadfast and hopeful. It's an invitation to trust that even in the darkest of times, God will eventually come. We should keep our faith alive and continue to offer Him what we have – our hope, love, and obedience - while waiting for His return. Why is this important? This verse speaks to a fundamental human experience: feeling small and powerless when things are tough. It's a reminder that even when we can’t understand or control the situation, there's still something bigger – God – who holds the power. It emphasizes that our response to God is crucial. In short: This verse encourages us to remain hopeful and faithful even when things seem impossible, knowing that God will ultimately return. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail (like the imagery used)? Explore its connection to other parts of the Bible? Discuss the philosophical ideas behind it (e.g., the idea of God's sovereignty)?