Our instinct is often to offer advice when someone is in trouble, believing that any problem can be solved rationally. However, life does not always follow predictable patterns, and not all suffering has a clear cause or solution. In Job 5:8-27, Eliphaz, out of the goodness of his heart, urged Job to seek God and accept His discipline. His exhortation, however, contained an underlying assumption that Job's suffering must be the result of God's discipline.

In Job 5: 11-13, Eliphaz describes how God raises up the humble, exalts those who mourn, and frustrates the schemes of the cunning. Although he was telling the truth, it makes no sense to press these charges against Job in this case. He suggests that Job examine his own behaviour to see whether he has been blinded by his wealth. Eliphaz insists that Job must humble himself before God and accept His discipline in order to be restored (vv. 17-27). Though his advice is full of wisdom, it also reveals his ignorance, that Job’s suffering is a consequence of his sins. Job’s suffering was not a consequence of sin but a trial allowed by God for a greater purpose.

Like Eliphaz, do we think that there is always a reason or solution for suffering? Can we accept that suffering is a reality we must face in this broken world? The book of Job reminds us that the purpose of trials may be beyond our understanding. Rather than trying to explain or heal someone, we should simply be with them, pray for them, and encourage them to believe that God is at work, even when we cannot see the full picture. True comfort is not in explanations or promises of healing, but in the assurance of God’s presence.

Reflection

Have we ever tried to “fix” someone’s pain instead of simply walking with them? How can we express God’s love by comforting others rather than pointing fingers?

Prayer : Dear Father, help us to be a source of comfort, not harm. Help us to speak wisely with words of grace and mercy so that our comfort reflects your love. Teach us to trust you, even when we cannot find a clear reason for the suffering. In Jesus’ name, Amen.