Two women at cafe table holding hands

Continuing in my study of Job I find it outrageous what Job’s “friends” say to him while he is down and out. I also find it outrageous that I have said my fair share of stupid things to those who were grieving, hurting, and suffering.  When speaking with someone who is suffering I am sure we all have put our foot in our mouth on occasion. Once I went through some intense times of suffering I realized how cliché people can sound.  I was now hearing what I said to others while sitting in the seat of suffering. Hearing from a very different perspective made me cringe that I could have thought I was being helpful.

What do you and I need to say when others are suffering? As little as possible! Listen, pray, hug, repeat as often as needed.

What do you and I need to do when we suffer? Job continued to look to God for help.  While your friends may mean well God alone will be your comfort. Only God will provide all you need as He walks through the valley with you. He hears and understands your pains and sorrows. Like no one else can.

From the “Think about” section in the study book…” We should weigh the input we receive. While we can appreciate any encouragement and comfort, we should be aware that others’ misperceptions or wrong viewpoints may make us question God’s care for us, His plans for us, or His heart towards us.”

Blessings,
Kathy

Kathy Withers is on staff at America’s Keswick and serves as Director of Partner Care. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 31 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local Church and teaches a Bible Study for women. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God’s Word.