Job 16:2 (KJV)
I have heard many such things: miserable comforters are ye all.
Job’s comforters were miserable. But Job, the man God sets as an example for us, describes what a good comforter would look like.
First, consider what emboldens you to speak. Job asked, “what emboldeneth thee that thou answerest?” (Job 16:3). Boldness may come from the Holy Spirit, but it can also spring from pride, anger, or the flesh. Before offering counsel, we should ask why we feel compelled to speak. Having something to say does not mean it needs to be said.
Second, put yourself in the sufferer’s place. Job said, “if your soul were in my soul’s stead” (Job 16:4). It is easy to analyze another person’s trouble from a comfortable distance. Biblical comfort attempts to see the burden through the eyes of the one carrying it. Before telling someone what he should do, consider what you would need if your soul were in his soul’s stead.
Third, refuse the easy work of criticism. Job admitted that he could “heap up words” against his friends and shake his head at them. Anyone can find faults. It requires little character to scold, accuse, condemn, or judge someone who is already hurting.
Instead, Job said, “I would strengthen you with my mouth” (Job 16:5). That should be the purpose of biblical counsel. Ask, Will my words help this person stand stronger before God?
Job added that his lips should “asswage your grief.” Sometimes people do not need an explanation for their suffering nearly as much as they need someone who will help them bear it.
Finally, Job longed for someone who would “plead for a man with God” (Job 16:21).
Perhaps that is where biblical counseling ought always to begin. Before speaking to a hurting person about his trouble, speak to God about that hurting person.
A miserable comforter has answers. A biblical comforter has compassion, strengthening words, and prayer.
#BiblicalCounseling #ChristianEncouragement #ComfortTheHurting #BookOfJob #DailyVisitWithGod
How to Be a Biblical Comforter Instead of a Miserable One: Counseling Lessons From Job
What makes someone a truly biblical comforter? Job reminds us that hurting people need more than answers—they need compassion, strengthening words, biblical truth, and prayer.
What have you learned about helping someone through suffering? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments.
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