First Responders
Eliphaz is the first to respond to Job's heart-wrenching cry. Let's remember Job's friends arrived and barely recognized Job. The Bible tells us they "lifted their voices and wept" for seven days and nights. As we read the exchanges between Job and his friends, let's keep in mind that these men genuinely desired to support him during an incredibly difficult time.
Eliphaz responds by saying, "As I have seen, those who plow iniquity and sow trouble reap the same. By the blast of God they perish, and by the breath of His anger they are consumed" Job 4:8-9
Eliphaz assumes Job must have done something wrong to deserve such profound loss and pain. In his view, Job's suffering must be the result of sin. I confess, I can sometimes jump to similar conclusions when others are suffering, wondering what they did to bring this upon themselves. But that's not always the case.
Jesus reminds us, "It rains on the just and the unjust alike". As we journey through Job, let's pray for sensitivity to our own struggles and those of others. Instead of quickly judging someone in their suffering, let's be swift to pray and encourage. May we not assume sin, but be first responders offering encouragement and hope.
To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.