What does Job's plea for attention teach about listening to others' struggles? Job 6:28—A Cry to Be Seen “Now, therefore, please look at me and see; would I lie to your face?” What We Learn About Listening • Listening begins with eye contact—Job longs simply to be looked at. • He yearns for credibility; sufferers need their words taken at face value, not sifted for hidden fault. • Silence is implied: before defending theology, Job wants his friends to pause and observe him. • Compassion precedes correction; without genuine attention, even truth sounds like accusation. Echoes Throughout Scripture • Proverbs 18:13—“He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.” • James 1:19—“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Romans 12:15—“Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” • Galatians 6:2—“Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Practical Steps for Us Today • Pause and meet the sufferer’s eyes before offering words. • Affirm, “I believe you,” to validate their reality. • Ask clarifying questions only after full listening; resist the urge to diagnose. • Offer presence—sit, weep, stay—mirroring Christ’s incarnation among the hurting. • Pray silently while they speak, seeking wisdom to answer with grace and truth. |
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