What does Job 36:2 teach about the importance of listening before speaking? Setting the Verse in Context Job 36:2: “Bear with me a little longer, and I will show you that there is more to be said on God’s behalf.” Elihu pauses and asks the suffering Job—and the friends who have spoken plenty—to hold back their next words. Before anyone fires off another opinion, he wants them to listen. Key Phrase: “Bear with me a little longer” • “Bear with me” calls for patience. • “A little longer” highlights that a brief investment of listening can prevent premature conclusions. • “More to be said on God’s behalf” reminds us that we may not yet have the full truth in view; silence can make room for deeper insight. Why Listening Comes Before Speaking • Protects against careless words (Proverbs 10:19). • Honors others by valuing what they have discerned (Philippians 2:3–4). • Positions us to speak accurately “on God’s behalf” rather than from mere emotion or assumption (1 Peter 4:11). Supporting Scriptures • James 1:19—“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Proverbs 18:13—“He who answers before he hears, it is folly and shame to him.” • Ecclesiastes 5:1—“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God… draw near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools.” • Proverbs 29:20—“Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” Practical Takeaways for Everyday Conversations • Pause before replying; let the other person finish entirely. • Repeat back what you heard to ensure understanding. • Ask the Lord for discernment: “Is there still ‘more to be said’ from His perspective?” • Offer words only after prayerfully weighing whether they align with Scripture. Listening to God and His Word First • Daily Bible intake tunes the heart to God’s voice (Psalm 119:105). • The Spirit uses Scripture to correct and equip us before we speak (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Like Elihu, let’s ensure our counsel flows from what God says, not from personal frustration or wounded pride. Summary Job 36:2 teaches that meaningful speech, especially when we claim to represent God, starts with patient listening. Holding our tongue a “little longer” allows truth to surface, tempers to cool, and words to be seasoned with grace and accuracy. |
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