Miserable Comforters

 

Job 16:1-5

 

 

“Then Job answered: I have heard many things like these. You are all miserable comforters.  Is there no end to your empty words?  What provokes you that you testifying?  If you were in my place I could also talk like you.  I could string words together against you and shake my head at you.  Instead, I would encourage you with my mouth, and the consolation from my lips would bring relief.” 

 

My pastor often tells the staff that the most important part of the ministry is just showing up, if you are to speak the Lord will tell you what to say.  I’ve witnessed people saying some of the dumbest things to a family that has suffered loss or in great sorrow.  These three did so well they showed up, and for seven days they were quiet, great job, but after Job spoke all this changed.  I agree with Job they are miserable comforters.  

 

Job asked a question that should be asked of all of us: “Is there no end  to your empty words?”  I am guilty of not giving thought to my words, and in Proverbs 10:19, we are told the following; “When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.”   I’m asking the Lord to change me into a wise man who does not try to entertain or even speak without giving thought to my words.  To be careful and discreet with the words that come from my mouth.  I do not ask you to pray for me often, but I do hope you will remember me in this area of my life.

 

Job’s so-called friends were mocking and showing contempt for a man they once were honored to say they were his friends by the shaking of the head.  Friends do not do that, and a follower of Christ being led by the Spirit of God will never do so.   We see that in Galatians 5:22,23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”

 

Job is stating that it takes no wisdom to do what you are doing, but if I were in your place and you were in mine, I would do this: “Instead, I would encourage you with my mouth, and the consolation from my lips would bring relief.”  That’s what love does, and God is Love.

 

From the Back Porch,

 

Bob Rice