COMFORTING OTHERS IN TIMES OF TROUBLE

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JOB 2: 11-13

Now when Job’s friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. They made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and comfort him.

Go, Sit, and Support

How do you relate to those who are suffering from personal loss, chronic illnesses, or tragedy? Most people will pick up the phone and call, send a card, and sometimes money.  These well-intentioned mean nothing to the person who is saddled with grief and pain.  The greatest gift you could give to anyone who is suffering from illness, grief, or personal loss is to show up and be present. When people are at the most vulnerable points in their lives, they need family and friends to surround them with love, empathy, understanding, and positivity. Since the pain is incomprehensible, these little acts of love will go a long way toward the healing process. 

When the devil slapped boils all over Job’s body, he lost his health and, as a result, bore excruciating pain every day and night.  His three friends, when they heard of his sufferings, made an appointment to visit him. While they were afar, they noticed the shadow of the man he once was and were overcome with deep emotions. They wept bitterly, rented their mantle, and sprinkled dust upon their head, which is a symbol of fasting. These men loved their friends and all the love, support and encouragement, compassion poured out of them through tears.  I am reminded of when Jesus wept shortly before raising Lazarus from death(John 11:35-45). When was the last time you cried with someone who was going through pain and suffering?

They sat on the ground with him for 7 days and 7 nights, and they all did it in silence because through empathy they understood the extent of his suffering.  I would love to have friends like these, and I am sure you would too.  When our loved ones and friends are hurting, we must make the time to visit with them and comfort them even for one meaningful hour. They will appreciate it. And while you are there, just remain quiet because they don’t need your opinion and your not-so-funny jokes. Wrong timing! Only your presence is appreciated.

Another interesting thing that these conscientious friends did was remain silent for the first 7 days. When people are in deep anguish, the last thing they want to do is to talk. They respected Job so much that they gave him the space which allowed him to speak only when he was ready. It took him 7 days to utter his first words. He needed that time to think and reflect on what had happened to him and his friends empowered him with their support to do so.  Many have criticized Job’s friends for judging him however, they failed to acknowledge the positive aspects of their character. They were genuine friends, not superficial, and even the best of us will mess up.  Many of us can learn how to become authentic Christian friends through these three men. I challenge you to read prayerfully Job 2 and let it change your life today.