S) "24 Teach me, and I will be silent;
And show me how I have erred.
25 How painful are honest words!
But what does your argument prove?"
Job 6:24-25 (NASB)
O) The story of Job is compelling, because we are told of his innocence from the beginning. So, when his friends started debating with him, probing for the sin that they were certain existed, we know as we read that he is innocent. The afflictions that the LORD allowed, were not punishment toward Job. So, where we read that Job asserts his blameless behavior, we can side with him. In light of his factually upright behavior, we can read the above verses with a more complete understanding. Job is essentially confirming the previous chapter (see Job 5), where one of his friends had implored him to seek the LORD, so that this affliction might be a just discipline to Job, and God would then restore him (see Job 5:17). But, in his defense, Job invites correction and discipline. He doesn't even deny what he has also known about God's justice and discipline. He simply says, "Please show me my guilt!" because he honestly does not know where he erred.
A) I think the most significant part of this passage is the last question. In counseling, the question Job poses to his friends is one of the most significant questions I can ask myself, before asking anything else: "What is the goal of my words?" Honest words can be quite painful, which is why We are commanded that to speak the truth in love (see Ephesians 4:15). But, if the pain is unavoidable, then it needs to be worthwhile. Admonishment is a biblical and necessary function of good counseling. However, posing hypothetical accusations is worse than silence. I cannot argue for argument's sake (see v.26). My goal should always be to bring the conversation back to what the Bible says. This is seldom done best with accusations, and most often best done with questions. In the counseling office at our church, on the wall are the words, "Accusations condemn, questions convict." The goal is to teach, heal, and grow; if I do the same with them, then all the better.
P) Father, I want to be used in counseling ministry, but according to Your will. I do not want to teach and counsel based on my previous experiences, but based on Your words. Remind me of my purpose, in every encounter. Let me prayerfully, and carefully choose my words, being very conscious of the goal I have: to bring people to the healing power of Your holy Word, so that You can be proven true, compassionate, slow to anger, and great in lovingkindness. Let Your will alone be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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