ODJ: too great for words
September 30, 2011
No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words (v.13).
READ: Job 2
The pot roast was still steaming in the pan as I arranged carrots, onions, and potatoes around its perimeter and then ladled broth over the whole creation. I nestled it into a basket along with some bread, fruit salad, and cookies for dessert. The meal was for a family in our church that was grieving a deeply painful loss. My heart was heavy as I loaded everything into my car. I rehearsed what I might say to the family members, but nothing seemed appropriate.
It’s difficult to know how to comfort hurting people. When Job’s children died and his wealth and health vanished, three of his friends tried to ease his sadness. To show their support, they “traveled from their homes to comfort and console him” (v.11). Sometimes, just being present communicates care to heartbroken people.
The Bible also calls us to empathize with those in pain—to “weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15). Job’s friends approached him wailing loudly. “They tore their robes . . . to show their grief. Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and nights” (Job 2:12-13). They were willing to meet Job in the valley of his sorrow and become “likeminded” with him.
As they mourned together, no one said a word to Job because they saw that his suffering was “too great for words” (v.13). Being silent reduces the chance that we’ll say the wrong thing—which Job’s buddies did later on. Their words were so upsetting that Job exclaimed, “Listen . . . to what I am saying. That’s one consolation you can give me” (21:2). Listening to people lets them know we care.
If you know someone who is grieving, drop by for a visit, engage in their pain, and listen when they’re ready to talk. God can use you to bless those who mourn, so that they will be comforted (Matthew 5:4). —Jennifer Benson Schuldt
What might prevent you from reaching out to hurting people? What are some ways you could communicate God’s love to a grieving friend?
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