How to Ruin a Friendship in 7 Days
Have you ever had a friend who stood by you through thick and thin? Well, Job had three such friends. But when they came to sit with him in his darkest hour, they ended up making things worse.
Job was blameless and upright in the eyes of God, yet the Devil challenged his righteousness and he lost everything — his wealth, his family, and his health. And that’s when his friends came to offer comfort, but instead, they ended up adding to his suffering.
The silence was unbearable, so Eliphaz the Termanite decided to break it. Now, what would you say in a situation like this? Would you try to comfort and sympathize with Job? Well, Eliphaz had a different approach.
He said, “But now it comes to you, and you are impatient; It touches you, and you are horrified. Is your fear of God not your confidence, And the integrity of your ways your hope?” (Job 4:5–6).
But let’s be real here, he wasn’t exactly correct in his explanation.
Job had been a comforter to others for years, but when the affliction came upon him, he couldn’t handle it. Losing your family, health, wealth, and status is more than just a “touch” of sorrow. Eliphaz’s words were like salt on a wound. He was basically saying that Job’s godliness was just a show, and that his life was a sham.
But here’s the thing: Job needed understanding and comfort from his friends, not false accusations. Even encouragers like Job need encouragement themselves. It’s easy to judge and assume things, but it takes courage to listen and offer genuine support.
So, let’s not be like Eliphaz. Let’s be there for those who are going through tough times. Let’s offer them a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on. Let’s be encouragers who uplift and inspire, not accusers who tear down and hurt. Because at the end of the day, we all need a little bit of kindness and compassion in our lives.
Pastor Rich is a dedicated minister and experienced business owner. I received my Master of Theological Studies from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and my Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Spurgeon College. With over eight years of experience in the ministry, I currently serve as the Outreach and Evangelism Pastor at First Baptist Church Springfield, MO.
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