Job’s words, and those of his three friends, have ended. Elihu has also finished speaking, seemingly preparing the way for the Lord. The sky has cleared (37:21–24), anticipating the most important speeches: those of Almighty God. What will he say? What does Job need to hear? What does Job need to do? For one thing, he needs to learn to doubt his doubts about God. And I dare say that we have the same need. These final chapters in Job are designed to do this. The Lord’s first speech (38:1–40:5) can be considered under the following headings:

1. God the Creator (38:1–21)

2. God the Controller (38:22–38)

3. God the Carer (38:39–39:30)

4. Job the Convicted (40:1–5)