16 If I have withheld the poor from their desire, or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail;
16 "If I have denied the desires of the poor or let the eyes of the widow grow weary,
16 "If I have withheld anything that the poor desired, or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail,
16 "Have I ignored the needs of the poor, turned my back on the indigent,
16 "If I have kept the poor from their desire, Or caused the eyes of the widow to fail,
16 "Have I refused to help the poor, or crushed the hopes of widows?
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 31:16
Commentary on Job 31:16-23
(Read Job 31:16-23)
Job's conscience gave testimony concerning his just and charitable behaviour toward the poor. He is most large upon this head, because in this matter he was particularly accused. He was tender of all, and hurtful to none. Notice the principles by which Job was restrained from being uncharitable and unmerciful. He stood in awe of the Lord, as certainly against him, if he should wrong the poor. Regard to worldly interests may restrain a man from actual crimes; but the grace of God alone can make him hate, dread, and shun sinful thoughts and desires.