What can we learn from Elihu's patience before speaking in Job 32:5? Waiting to Speak: The Text “Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because they were older than he. But when Elihu saw that the three men had no further reply, his anger was aroused.” (Job 32:4-5) Why Elihu Waited • Respect for age and authority—he deferred to those older men (cf. Leviticus 19:32). • Genuine listening—he wanted the full story before responding (cf. Proverbs 18:13). • Discernment of timing—he perceived a natural pause when the friends had finished (cf. Ecclesiastes 3:7, “a time to be silent and a time to speak”). What His Patience Teaches Us • Humility: We do not assume we already know everything (Proverbs 11:2). • Submission to godly order: Even when we have insight, we honor established leaders (1 Timothy 5:1). • Accuracy in response: Careful listening guards us from misrepresenting others (James 1:19). • Righteous emotion, not impulsive reaction: Anger can be holy when grounded in truth, but only after measured reflection (Ephesians 4:26). Marks of Patience Before Speech 1. Listening until the other party has completely finished. 2. Testing words against Scripture before replying. 3. Checking motives—speaking to edify, not to win. 4. Waiting for a clear opening granted by the Lord. Practical Steps for Today • Pause—count to ten, pray, and replay what you just heard. • Ask clarifying questions, not loaded ones. • Speak only after you can fairly state the other view. • Let Scripture shape the tone and content of your answer (Proverbs 15:23). • Remember that hasty speech brings regret (Proverbs 29:20). Fruit of This Kind of Patience • Better understanding among believers. • Words that heal rather than wound. • Wisdom respected by others, regardless of age. • A testimony that honors the Lord who Himself “did not open His mouth” until the appointed time (Isaiah 53:7; John 18:37). |
    |