Day 23

Read: Job 15:1 – 18:21

Reflect:

In today’s reading Job calls his friends “miserable comforters” and points out that if his friends were in his position, he would offer comfort rather than condemnation.
When I am hurting or watching others suffer, do I offer long-winded empty and judgmental speeches like Eliphaz, or do I provide the compassionate presence of a friend?

When a brother or sister is in pain, our duty is to offer comfort, not to analyze their life for hidden sin. As today’s reading shows, Eliphaz’s “wisdom” was actually harmful.

Despite his anger and confusion, Job still cries out to God, acknowledging that he needs an advocate and intercessor between himself and God (foreshadowing Jesus).
Am I, like Job, tempted to believe that God has become my enemy, or can I trust in a Mediator (Jesus) even when I cannot see the reason for my pain?

Job teaches us that it is not sin to express your pain, confusion, and raw emotion to God. He does not turn his back on God, even while asking, “Why?”

Let’s pray together:

Lord, help me to be a comforter, not a judge, to those who are struggling. When I am in the midst of trials, keep me from listening to the accusatory voice of the enemy or the harsh words of others. Let me cling to the truth that You are compassionate and merciful, even when I do not understand my circumstances. Amen