Job’s friends remain silent for seven days because his misery is so evident and disturbing. That was the right thing to do. Sometimes we don’t need to say anything; we just need to be there. After Job finally speaks, they began to offer their thoughts. That was the wrong thing to do. Not because of the content of their speeches necessarily. They do have some wise things to say. (They also say some unwise things!) However, their application was misguided, and therefore, good words became harmful instead of helpful.
Eliphaz was the first to speak. He offered one bit of great theology. “Behold, blessed is the one whom God reproves; therefore despise not the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he binds up; he shatters, but his hands heal” (5:17-18). The Lord does indeed discipline His children, and He does so for good purposes. The same truth is in Proverbs and Hebrews (Prov 3:11-12, Heb 12:5-6). Every believer needs to understand this truth.
However, Job was not being disciplined by the Lord, therefore, the application was dead wrong! We must be extremely careful with good theology! It is helpful and faith-building to understand the ways of God. However, it can be damaging for struggling believers if misapplied. We must take care with regard to timing. A believer should be instructed about God’s ways in discipline outside of the context of suffering. When enduring suffering, the believer needs comfort and assurance. We must take great care with applying truth to specific individuals and situations. The Bible reveals the ways God works, but we are not to say He is working a particular way in someone’s life. Only God knows the why and the what for! He will reveal His plan to His child in due time! Take care in how we care for one another!
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