Healing Is A Solitary Task

Posted by In the"Bible Reflections and Devotionals" category 0 Comments

Today’s reading: Job 2:11-13

Today’s reading is an interesting verse to highlight from the Book of Job. A pastor of mine used to remind us in her congregation that, when contemplating a single selection from the Bible, it’s always important to also consider that verse’s context.  In this case, the context plays a huge role.

A reader who saw only these three verses could easily assume that Job was comforted by this graceful gesture of his friends, that he eagerly accepted their love and even returned it.

But readers familiar with the rest of Job’s story know that’s not at all what happens. Throughout the book, Job is bitter toward these friends. He argues with them and even rejects them.

I am recalling something interesting a friend of mine once said about this:

“You know, people say that Job didn’t deserve this downfall that God put him through, but, when I see how he ended up arguing with all his friends who were only trying to help, I wonder about that.”

I think of all the awkward moments in my life when friends have tried to comfort me during times of struggle. Some took the approach we see in today’s verses. They simply sat quietly with me as I cried. But others tried their best to find comforting words to say. People often advise that the  first approach is best, but, in truth, I found neither to be especially helpful.

I don’t remembering lashing out at these friends, but I’m certain I  did. I know I have been lashed at plenty of times myself when I was only offering help. That’s just something that we people  do — just as Job did. We do it because we’re flawed.

I believe Christ does call me to do all I can to offer comfort for those who are suffering (so I find myself practicing the “quietly comfort” approach fairly regularly), and I am very grateful for those who have lifted me during my own struggles.

But, in the end, recovering from life’s pain requires a person to make his own glorious connection to God. (As we see Job do so triumphantly!) Others can certainly pray for and encourage such a connection. But only the troubled soul can repair itself.

Thanks be to God for always being good — even when we think He isn’t.