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March 12 - Job 19-20
For I know that my Redeemer lives, And He shall stand at last on the earth; 26 And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, That in my flesh I shall see God, 27 Whom I shall see for myself, And my eyes shall behold, and not another. How my heart yearns within me! (Job 19:25-27)
These words rise like a hymn of faith from the depths of human pain. Therefore, it is no surprise that throughout church history, hymn writers and composers have drawn inspiration from this passage.
The context of Job’s declaration makes the statement even more remarkable. Job had lost his wealth, his children, and his health. His friends wrongly accused him of hidden sin, and even his own wife struggled to understand his suffering. Yet in the middle of this darkness, Job expresses unwavering certainty: “I know that my Redeemer lives.” The Hebrew word for “Redeemer” refers to a kinsman-redeemer. It is someone who steps in to rescue, defend, or restore a family member who has fallen into trouble. Job’s confidence was that God Himself would ultimately vindicate him and restore justice.
This passage also points forward prophetically to the hope fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Christians understand the living Redeemer to be Christ, who conquered death through His resurrection. Job’s declaration anticipates the gospel truth that believers have a living Savior who stands as their advocate. Because Christ lives, those who trust in Him have assurance that suffering and death will not have the final word.
For this reason, Job 19:25–27 has deeply influenced Christian worship. Perhaps the most famous musical expression drawn from this passage is the aria “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” from Handel’s Messiah, which beautifully captures the triumphant hope found in Job’s words. Hymns built upon this text emphasize the believer’s confidence that redemption is real, resurrection is promised, and God will ultimately be seen face to face.
Another striking feature of the passage is Job’s hope of bodily resurrection. He declares that even after his skin is destroyed, “in my flesh I shall see God.” This statement reflects a profound belief that death does not end the relationship between God and His people. Instead, there is a future day when the redeemed will stand before God in restored life.
Job 19:25–27 has become a timeless confession of faith. In suffering, it gives hope. In uncertainty, it gives assurance. And in worship, it becomes a song of victory, reminding believers that their Redeemer lives and that one day they too will see Him.