Job -- Day 1

Read Job 1-3

Today's Devotion -- Job 2:11-1311-13 Three of Job's friends heard of all the trouble that had fallen on him. Each traveled from his own country—Eliphaz from Teman, Bildad from Shuhah, Zophar from Naamath—and went together to Job to keep him company and comfort him. When they first caught sight of him, they couldn't believe what they saw—they hardly recognized him! They cried out in lament, ripped their robes, and dumped dirt on their heads as a sign of their grief. Then they sat with him on the ground. Seven days and nights they sat there without saying a word. They could see how rotten he felt, how deeply he was suffering. (The Message Bible)
taken from www.biblegateway.com

There are so many tragedies in our lives, and good friends can be blessings during terrible times. And, as we'll see in upcoming chapters, they can also make things worse if they aren't careful...even if they mean well. In our efforts to help others heal, we sometimes say things that seem cliche or even callous. How can we, as friends, do the right thing at times like these?

Sometimes the best thing to say is nothing at all. Job's friends sat with him unspeaking for seven days and nights. They were accessible if needed, and the most important thing was their presence and support for Job. It's ok to say that we don't know what to say, and to just have a shoulder available as needed. It is key to note that his friends came to him...they didn't just say 'send for me if you need anything'.

When friends have crises, think about the things that helped you through difficult situations. Try to see what your friend needs most -- does he need to talk through the difficulty, or would a distraction be more helpful? Tangible things, like gas cards, meals, or lawn/house care are especially appreciated because we often don't have time to think about things like that when life gets really tough.

The most important thing, though, is to be there. So often we don't know what to say or do, so in our discomfort we do nothing at all...and we miss a key chance to serve others.