What practical steps can we take to support those feeling mocked or rejected? Living the Weight of Job 30:9 “ And now they mock me in song; I have become a byword among them.” (Job 30:9) Job’s words echo the sting so many still feel today. When a brother or sister is laughed at, excluded, or belittled, Scripture calls us to step in with tangible care. Recognize the Wound Before You Bandage It • Take the pain seriously. Mockery cuts as deeply as any physical blow (Psalm 22:6-7). • Resist quick fixes. Proverbs 25:20 warns that singing cheerful songs to a heavy heart is like pouring vinegar on soda—making things worse, not better. • Look for signs of hidden hurt: withdrawal, self-degrading comments, or sudden silence. Draw Near with Compassionate Presence • Simply be there. “Mourn with those who mourn.” (Romans 12:15) Shared tears communicate worth. • Listen more than you speak. Job’s friends did their best work during their first seven silent days (Job 2:13). • Offer appropriate touch—a handshake, a hand on the shoulder—when welcomed. Physical assurance counters the isolation mockery produces. Speak Life, Not More Pain • Guard your words. “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need.” (Ephesians 4:29) • Replace the lies they’re hearing with God’s truth: – “You are precious in My sight.” (Isaiah 43:4) – “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1) • Address the mocking words directly when needed, but never mirror their tone. Carry the Burden Together • Share practical help: drive them to an appointment, sit with them at church, include them in group plans. • Galatians 6:2 commands, “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” • Small acts—sending a note, sharing a meal—tell them they are not a byword to you. Stand as Advocate and Protector • Speak up if the mocking happens in your presence. “Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:9) • Create safe spaces: invite them into circles where respect is non-negotiable. • If bullying is severe, help them seek appropriate authority or professional support. Point Them to the One Who Was Mocked for Us • Jesus “was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief.” (Isaiah 53:3) • At the cross He heard, “He saved others, but He cannot save Himself!” (Mark 15:31). He understands every taunt. • Because He rose, rejection is never the last word. Affirm the hope of Hebrews 4:15-16—He sympathizes and offers timely help. Commit to Prayerful, Ongoing Care • Tell them you will pray—and actually do it (Colossians 1:9-10). • Check in later. Mockery’s bruise can linger longer than we assume. • Celebrate progress, rejoice over answered prayer, and keep encouraging growth in Christ-centered identity. Stepping into another’s Job-like moment requires time, empathy, and courage. Yet when we do, we become living reminders that in God’s family no one remains a byword; each is a beloved image-bearer worth defending, uplifting, and walking alongside. |
    |