In what ways can we support others facing adversity, as seen in Job 30:13? Setting the Scene “ ‘They tear up my path; they profit from my destruction, with no one to restrain them.’ ” (Job 30:13) In this single sentence, Job laments three painful realities: his road forward is blocked, others gain from his pain, and nobody steps in. Turning those failures around shows us exactly how to support people in hardship. Be a Path-Rebuilder • Clear obstacles instead of creating them. • Offer practical assistance—meals, errands, childcare, transportation. (cf. Isaiah 58:10) • Share information or resources that open doors to work, housing, or medical help. • Use encouraging words that remind the sufferer God still has a future for them (Jeremiah 29:11). Refuse to Profit from Another’s Pain • Guard conversations; no gossip, no sensational stories. (Proverbs 11:13) • Turn down opportunities that would advance you at their expense. • Protect their reputation, finances, and property. (Philippians 2:4) • If you have power in the situation—employer, landlord, family leader—take material loss yourself rather than adding to theirs. (Proverbs 3:27-28) Step In—Be the “Restrainer” • Intervene when mistreatment surfaces; speak up, report, or mediate. (Proverbs 31:8-9) • Stand beside them in public settings so they are not isolated. • Join practical aid networks—church benevolence teams, disaster-relief crews, legal-aid ministries. • Stay consistent; early and faithful presence keeps hurtful people in check. Carry the Load Together • “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) • Plan regular check-ins—texts, calls, visits. • Share scripture that comforts and anchors: Psalm 34:18; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4. • Weep with those who weep, rejoice with them in small victories. (Romans 12:15) Strengthen with Hope • Point them to God’s unchanging character—good, sovereign, present. (Psalm 46:1) • Remind them that Christ suffered yet triumphed; He walks with them now. (Hebrews 4:15-16) • Pray in their hearing, committing their situation to the Lord. • Celebrate progress, however small, so endurance grows. (James 1:12) Live Out the Gospel in Community • Love: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17) • Encourage: “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) • Remember: “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them.” (Hebrews 13:3) Where Job found roadblocks, exploitation, and silence, we are called to lay stepping-stones, protect, and speak. In doing so we become visible proofs of God’s steadfast love to those walking through adversity today. |
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