How can we apply Elihu's example of waiting to speak in our lives? Verse in Focus: Job 36:2 “Bear with me a little longer, and I will show you that there is yet more to be said on God’s behalf.” Elihu’s Example: What Waiting Looked Like • Elihu had listened through thirty-five chapters of intense debate before he spoke. • He respected his elders’ opportunity to speak first (Job 32:4–7). • He waited not from timidity but from conviction that words about God must be measured and Spirit-guided. Why Waiting Matters • Proverbs 18:13—“He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him.” • James 1:19—“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Ecclesiastes 5:2—“Do not be quick to speak… So let your words be few.” • Proverbs 10:19—“When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” Together these verses underscore that silence gives space for understanding, discernment, and sin-avoidance. Heart Checks Before Opening Our Mouths • Have I heard the whole matter? (Proverbs 18:13) • Is my motive to honor God or to win an argument? (Colossians 3:17) • Am I speaking truth seasoned with grace? (Ephesians 4:29) • Have I prayed, asking the Spirit to guide my words? (Psalm 19:14) Practical Ways to Apply Elihu’s Wait • Schedule “listening pauses” in conversations—count to three before responding. • Resist the urge to finish another’s sentence; let them finish instead. • Keep a journal: jot first thoughts, pray, then decide if they need to be voiced. • In meetings or family discussions, commit to speak last at least once a day. • Memorize James 1:19 and recite it when tempted to blurt. When It’s Time to Speak • Speak “on God’s behalf” (Job 36:2) by anchoring comments in Scripture, not speculation. • Let your tone reflect the fruit of the Spirit—gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). • Aim to build up, not tear down (Ephesians 4:29). Living This Out This Week • Set aside five minutes daily for silence before the Lord—“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). • In every significant conversation, ask one clarifying question before offering any opinion. • Track how many times you choose silence over speaking; thank God for each moment of restraint. The model Elihu gives—waiting, listening, and speaking only when ready to honor God—remains a timeless path to wise, Christ-honoring communication. |
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