Job's Friends

I am reading in the book of Job. I have read Job before and always thought about Job, how he persevered through his tragedies. I admired his honesty with God; wondering why he was ever born or even conceived.

As I started reading in Job the other night I started thinking about his friends. When they first came to comfort him, they sat by him and did not say a word. Job was the first to talk, and then his friends talked. Some of their advice seemed comforting at first, but they did not stop talking as soon as they probably should of.

I wondered how often I do that to my family and friends. Depending on the circumstances and different personalities determines how you should comfort someone. We need to pray and ask God for wisdom when trying to help or comfort someone. Sometimes sitting with someone and not saying a word is exactly what they need, sometimes a hug, maybe no words on your part but lots of listening, maybe letting them know you love and care for them and are there for them if they need any thing, other times lots of talking. If talking to them, knowing when to stop talking. I think we have all had someone give us too much advice before. You know the person loves you and is trying to help you, but you don't want to hear any more. I'm sure we have all done this to others.

If you talk a lot, you are sure to sin; if you are wise, you will keep quiet. ~Proverbs 10:19

I have this verse underlined in my Bible. I love to talk to people so I have to remind myself of this verse often. I generally think of too much talking leading to gossiping, lying or know-it-all people. Traits none of us want to be known for. However, even while trying to help or comfort someone we can talk to much.

Careless words stab like a sword, but wise words bring healing. ~ Proverbs 12:18

I will finish reading Job over the next few days. I will be paying attention to Job's friends (trying to learn from their mistakes) and asking God to give me wisdom and help me to be a better friend.