26 For thou writest bitter things against me, and makest me to possess the iniquities of my youth.
26 For you write down bitter things against me and make me reap the sins of my youth.
26 For you write bitter things against me and make me inherit the iniquities of my youth.
26 You compile a long list of mean things about me, even hold me accountable for the sins of my youth.
26 For You write bitter things against me, And make me inherit the iniquities of my youth.
26 "You write bitter accusations against me and bring up all the sins of my youth.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 13:26
Commentary on Job 13:23-28
(Read Job 13:23-28)
Job begs to have his sins discovered to him. A true penitent is willing to know the worst of himself; and we should all desire to know what our transgressions are, that we may confess them, and guard against them for the future. Job complains sorrowfully of God's severe dealings with him. Time does not wear out the guilt of sin. When God writes bitter things against us, his design is to make us bring forgotten sins to mind, and so to bring us to repent of them, as to break us off from them. Let young persons beware of indulging in sin. Even in this world they may so possess the sins of their youth, as to have months of sorrow for moments of pleasure. Their wisdom is to remember their Creator in their early days, that they may have assured hope, and sweet peace of conscience, as the solace of their declining years. Job also complains that his present mistakes are strictly noticed. So far from this, God deals not with us according to our deserts. This was the language of Job's melancholy views. If God marks our steps, and narrowly examines our paths, in judgment, both body and soul feel his righteous vengeance. This will be the awful case of unbelievers, yet there is salvation devised, provided, and made known in Christ.