Old Testament
Job 31:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For it is a fire that consumes to destruction, and would root out all my increase.
Compare translations
For it is a fire that consumeth to destruction, and would root out all mine increase.
What Job 31:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job is expressing the seriousness of sin, particularly the sin of lust. He likens it to a destructive fire that consumes everything in its path. Job understands that indulging in such desires would lead to his ruin, both spiritually and materially. He recognizes that these actions could destroy his prosperity and blessings, rooting out all that he has worked for. This metaphor emphasizes the intense and consuming nature of sin, illustrating how it can lead to total devastation in a person's life. Job is making a strong statement about the consequences of giving in to temptation, showing his commitment to righteousness and the importance of guarding one's heart against destructive desires.
How to apply Job 31:12 to your life
This verse serves as a reminder to be vigilant against temptations that can lead to sin. Just as Job recognized the destructive nature of lust, we should be aware of how certain desires can harm our lives and relationships. Practicing self-control and seeking accountability can help us avoid these pitfalls.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Holds Fast His Integrity (Job 27:1–31:40)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Job
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Job 31:12
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Job 31:12
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 31:12 mean?
Job 31:12 means that indulging in sin, particularly lust, is destructive like a fire that consumes everything. Job is highlighting how such desires can lead to spiritual and material ruin, emphasizing the importance of avoiding temptation.
What is the meaning of 'fire that consumes to destruction' in Job 31:12?
The phrase 'fire that consumes to destruction' in Job 31:12 symbolizes the intense and damaging nature of sin. It illustrates how unchecked desires can lead to total devastation in a person's life.
How does Job 31:12 relate to self-control?
Job 31:12 relates to self-control by emphasizing the need to guard against destructive desires. It serves as a reminder that practicing self-control can prevent the ruin that comes from indulging in sin.
What themes are present in Job 31:12?
The themes present in Job 31:12 include the consequences of sin, destruction, lust, righteousness, self-control, and temptation. These themes highlight the serious impact of giving in to harmful desires.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.