The Patience of Job's............Friends!

When we think of the story of Job, we typically don't think very kindly of his friends (Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar).  They have the reputation of giving bad advice.   But a while back, I heard John Ortberg refer to how they started out ministering to Job.  Check out Job 2:13.   It says they sat on the ground with him for 7 days and 7 nights and didn't say a word to him because of his great suffering.

Now that is patience!  How many of us would sit with a suffering friend for 7 days and nights and not say a word?!  Now, I'm sure if there was a life threatening situation with a family member, you would be there in a heartbeat.  I've been there.  Done that.  But I'm talking about a friend who is in a very difficult situation - physically, emotionally or spiritually.  We think we have to say something.  Pray.  Give them a verse ("all things work together...").  But Job's friends just sat there (at least initially).  That takes great patience.  

What brought this to mind, was an example of this happening within our own church.  Quite a few weeks ago, Pastor Brett, Lee and myself went to the home of a CrossPoint family member.  They had been in great physical pain for quite some time, with no sense of relief in sight.  And you know what?  There was "Pastor" Ruth.  She had spent 3+ days just sitting with this lady.  Praying for her.  Loving on her.  Serving her.  Taking her to the doctor.  And if you know Ruth, she didn't go down the path of Job's friends.  No reprimands.  No charges.  Just compassion and love.  Just an overflow of God's love coming out of her heart.

Job 2:13 in action.  Great lesson.