Day 138
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| Job and His Three Friends |
Scripture
Observation
Onto the stage now step three of Job's friends, who in the next twenty-eight chapters serve as self-appointed counselors. Each friend represents a different point of view concerning the source of Job's suffering. Eliphaz, the senior spokesman and "chief counsel for the prosecution," bases much of his insight on personal experience. Older and more diplomatic than his two companions, Eliphaz couches his criticism in kinder terms. God is just and pure (4:17); man's troubles (including Job's) are therefore brought upon by himself. Job expresses disappointment with Eliphaz's diagnosis, challenging him to identify anything standing between Job and his God.
Application
It is a rare and precious friend who knows when to speak and when to keep quiet. A well-intentioned word spoken to a bereaved individual at an inappropriate moment can do more harm than good.
Take it from a father who knows—a father who sat by the bedside of his teenaged daughter during her long hospitalization, then penned these wise words to those who would offer sympathy:
"Be prayerful about what you say, To us the presence, not the sage counsel, of visitors was the most meaningful. We sensed little value in attempts to 'theologize' about the purpose of this trial. We needed encouragement for the immediate moment more than speculation about the past or present."
Do you know others undergoing Job-like experiences today? Don't glibly tell them, "I understand," when you really don't. Instead tell them, "I'm here...and I love you," because you really do.
Take it from a father who knows—a father who sat by the bedside of his teenaged daughter during her long hospitalization, then penned these wise words to those who would offer sympathy:
"Be prayerful about what you say, To us the presence, not the sage counsel, of visitors was the most meaningful. We sensed little value in attempts to 'theologize' about the purpose of this trial. We needed encouragement for the immediate moment more than speculation about the past or present."
Do you know others undergoing Job-like experiences today? Don't glibly tell them, "I understand," when you really don't. Instead tell them, "I'm here...and I love you," because you really do.
Prayer
Almighty God, we are praying today for those who are afflicted with misfortunes and that Your divine guidance will lead them in such a way that they will be able to experience the Holy Spirit's gracious touch upon their life. In Jesus name! Amen!
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| Holy Spirit's Gracious Touch! |
© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020
