Things take an ugly turn in Job 9-14. Job’s friends continue to claim he suffers for his sin. Job continues to declare his innocence. This does not mean he thinks he is perfect- just that there is no sin he has hidden from God, no sin which he has refused to confess. He upholds the righteousness of God, knowing he cannot argue (successfully) with God. All he can do is plead for mercy.
Then we see an inkling of something:
“I despise my own life.” (9:12c)
“I loathe my very life; therefore I will give free rein to my complaint and speak out in the bitterness of my soul.” (10:1
Job has something of a death wish. On the one hand he wants vindication. On the other he fears that God will destroy him.
Zophar the Naamathite chips in with the incomprehensibility of God, … and Job’s obvious sinfulness. If Job will just repent God will let up and restore him.
Job essentially responds, mockingly, “you are the man, and all wisdom will perish with you.” He laments his lousy group of counselors. “Come on, Zophar, show me my sin!”
Finally he returns his comments to God.
“If only you would hide me in the grave and conceal me until you anger has passed!”
Job basically wants God to finishe him off. He can no longer bear the pain of this hardship and wants God to hurry up and end his life.
Have you ever felt that way? No, not suicidal. This is not Job wanting to take his own life. This is Job wanting God to end his pain by ending his life. Job is hitting bottom, and it is scary. His patience and perseverence are on the verge of collapse. He isn’t sure how much more he can take.
Thankfully, God doesn’t honor this request. His plan is not to destroy Job- but to show that Job loves Him even when life isn’t grand. He’s out to show that Job loves God more than he loved his kids, wife and possessions. And Job is struggling with this, just like the rest of us.
Cavman Considers 
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