|
|
Job 16 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
This is Job’s fourth response. He makes it clear that if he was in their position he would stop trying to get the last word in and speak encouragement with tenderness. Do you know anyone like this? Sometimes in trying to get their point across, and change your mind, they lose sight of grace in their speech.
In my opinion, verse 21 is the most powerful thought in this chapter.
My friends scoff at me as I weep before God. 21 I wish that someone might arbitrate between a man and God just as a man pleads for his friend.
Job 16:20-21 HCSB
The application of this passage is twofold. I’ve already commented on the fact that Job is searching for a Mediator. He desires an Advocate. This is the most direct he has been in asking for this person. Even back then, humanity longed for a man to come walk among them and reconcile God’s plan. This is an amazing thought, and it should drive us to thankfulness for our Savior. The second part of this application is Job communicating what he really needs from his friends. As if the pain and suffering wasn’t enough, he just longs for some support!
Our words and encouragement go so much further than we could ever imagine. Some of the most memorable events in my life are centered around someone rallying in my corner. Sometimes they were correcting me, in grace, and others times they were urging me to believe in the impossible.
When I first got into ministry, I remember receiving a phone call from a mentor who had invested in me many years before. At the time, I was so overwhelmed with the tasks before me. I didn’t have any formal training or education in ministry. I was lacking confidence. I was questioning if this was even the right decision. I remember he spoke such powerful words to my heart that day. He prayed very specifically for me and even said he knew I would come to this moment one day when I would face a crossroads of sorts. His words meant more then he will ever know.
Unforgettable moments like these create divine appointments. Do not neglect your ability to encourage and support in the midst of trials. We are called to do it!