Encourage Not Discourage

Job 16:4-5 NLT

“I could say the same things if you were in my place. I could spout off criticism and shake my head at you. But if it were me, I would encourage you. I would try to take away your grief.”

Saying the right thing at the right time is an art, but it is what we need to always do as Christians.

Job’s friends passed judgment on him, thinking that they were right in their estimation of him. Unfortunately, they were completely wrong.

When given a circumstance with someone that we feel is on the wrong path, we need to wait, listen, understand, and then use wisdom. We don’t want to be like Job’s friends and be rebuked by God. It would be better being the voice of hope and reason.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to speak healing and restoration instead of condemnation. Help me to think a matter through before I speak. In Your name, Lord Jesus, I ask, amen.