Misplaced Confidence

Behold this; we have investigated it, and so it is. Hear it, and know for yourself.—Job 5:27 NASB

Job’s friends were confident, sure they knew the reasons for Job’s problems. Eliphaz, for example, emphatically declared they had investigated his condition and concluded that Job must have started trouble for himself. Eliphaz counseled Job to seek God, humble himself, and repent of pride.

Ultimately, God revealed His anger toward Job’s friends. He told Eliphaz that His “wrath” was kindled against them “because you have not spoken of Me what is trustworthy, as My servant Job has” (Job 42:7–8). The Hebrew words here suggest they did not have a firm understanding. Their conclusions were wrong.

Eliphaz suggested that Job was foolish. However, God declared it was Eliphaz and his friends whose comments were folly. The Hebrew word here suggests they had committed a crime—something disgraceful and morally wicked! They were foolish to think so highly of their own opinions. They were wrong to judge Job and be so confident about their own subjective reactions.

How easily we can criticize Job’s friends for their hasty conclusions. But we can find ourselves acting like them.

Today, be careful before you judge others. Remember to seek God for His wisdom. Humble yourself before Him. Submit your thoughts to Him. Fill your mind with His Word. Trust Him. Remember the words of Jesus: Remove the “log” in your own eyes before taking the “speck” out of others’ eyes (Matthew 7:1–5).

Reflection Question: Make a list of people whom you have judged and ask for their forgiveness.