Job 4:1,2
‘Then Eliphaz the Temanite responded, “If one ventures a word with you, will you become impatient? But who can refrain from speaking?”‘
I have to agree with Eliphaz. A comment must be made. Now he and his friends went way too far. This is new territory. It’s like trying to cross a frozen lake, one constantly taps in front to verify it’s safe to proceed. He’s tapping to check with Job if he can ask a question or make a comment.
Job’s answer will tell Eliphaz if further questions or comments are ok. It reminds me of a conversation I had with a friends a year ago. My friend was cancelling all of our outings. So I call him and asked if everything was ok. He said it was, but battled me. My pride wanted to engage him. He was insulting me. However, I knew that would produce nothing positive. I apologized, listened as long as he wanted to talk and wished him well.
A warning to ourselves is the anxious desire to be heard. We feel compelled to make our point. That might work once, but those conversations are full of each side trying to be heard. These conversations rarely produce good results. Eliphaz’s anxiety can be seen in his words, “But who can refrain from speaking?” The first comment will give us the direction to take. Usually it’s to listen.
Particularly with Job. He has lost more than anyone. His pain, both physically and emotionally can’t be measured or understood.
Lord, help us to be good listeners. Give us the wisdom to speak or remain silent.