Job 4-7, Psalm 140

Job has lost everything—his children, his health, and his peace. He hasn’t done anything wrong, but now his friends and family begin to speak. Starting in Job 4, we hear the voices of those around him, trying to explain why all of this is happening.

Some of what they say might sound true, but their words don’t come from love, and their advice doesn’t always match God’s heart. Instead of helping, their judgments add more pain.

As we read these next chapters, we’re invited to look at our own hearts. This part of Job’s story helps us explore and begin to heal.

In Job 4, Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, finally spoke. He said Job must have done something wrong because, in his mind, suffering only came to those who sinned. Eliphaz reminded Job that he had helped others before, but now needed help himself. He said God corrects those He loves, but Eliphaz was wrong to assume Job’s pain was a punishment. This reminds us not to assume we know why someone is hurting. Sometimes it’s better to listen than to explain.

In Job 5, Eliphaz kept talking. He told Job to turn to God, repent, and accept His discipline. He said God would rescue Job if he would admit he was wrong. While some things Eliphaz said were true about God’s power, he was wrong about Job. Job wasn’t being punished. This teaches us that even well-meaning people can give bad advice when they don’t understand the full story. We should be careful not to speak too quickly in someone else's pain.

In Job 6, Job answered Eliphaz. He said his pain was heavier than anyone could understand. He wasn’t trying to argue with God. He was just hurting and wished for relief. Job felt let down by his friends. He had hoped they would comfort him, but instead, they judged him. When someone is suffering, they need kindness, not correction.

In Job 7, Job spoke directly to God. He said life felt like endless pain, and he wondered why God was even paying attention to him at all. Job didn’t think he was important enough for God to bother with. He didn’t curse God, but he was very honest about how tired and hopeless he felt. We can speak to God openly. No need for fancy words. Even when we are messy and confused, He listens.

In Psalm 140, David asks God to protect him from evil people with cruel plans. He trusts God to stand up for the innocent. When you feel surrounded by unkind people or unfair situations, God is your safe place.