Suffering: A Study in JobNäide

What does it say?

Job’s third friend, Zophar, called on Job to repent of his sin and stop mocking God.

What does it mean?

Like the other two friends who lacked understanding and compassion, Zophar called on Job to repent of his sin. After telling Job to stop mocking the Lord, he said he deserved even more suffering than God had already allowed. Zophar’s emotional rebuke was filled with condemnation and ended with a severe warning. Sadly, Job’s friends were doing more harm than good.

How should I respond?

It’s important to pray and ask God for discernment before offering advice. Sometimes we offer our own opinions and thoughts rather than giving godly counsel from God’s Word. Are you helping your friends with your advice or adding to their problems? Matthew 12:34 says, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Ask the Lord to examine your heart and intentions before you speak. Then, rely on Him to give you the words to say. How might you have condemned or accused someone when you should have shown love and compassion? Based on today’s passage, what will you do differently next time?