A wise man and his mouth
Job's dialog has gotten increasingly morose. And his friends, rather than uplifting and encouraging, have become critical, to the point that Job is now defensive. Backed into the corner, Job begins lashing out at his friends, his situation, and ultimately at God. Understandable. Not justifiable, but understandable.
Eliphaz has an opportunity to respond and rather than understand Job's defensiveness, he pushes him harder. According to the New Living Translation he begins his discourse by saying, "A wise man wouldn't answer with such empty talk!" And like an UN-wiseman, he answers.
Have you ever noticed when people say, "I'm not judging, but..." that they are? Why is it when we say, "We don't even need to go there.." that we do? If we were wise, we would learn not to inflame situations with our words. Truly "a gentle answer turns away wrath" and "the tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable." Lord, help me to be wise with my mouth, not just in my mind!
Created over 2 years ago
