What is the meaning of Job 16:5? But I would encourage you • Job contrasts his would-be response with the harsh rebukes of Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. He insists that, in their place, he would speak courage rather than criticism. • God’s people are repeatedly called to the same posture: “Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • This flows from the comfort we ourselves receive: “He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble” (2 Corinthians 1:4). • Practical take-away: – Notice pain rather than faults. – Voice confidence in God’s faithfulness. – Offer words that lift, not load (Romans 1:12). with my mouth • Job highlights the chosen instrument—spoken words. The tongue can wound or heal: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). • Scripture insists our speech be guarded: “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up” (Ephesians 4:29). • James warns, “Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, this should not be!” (James 3:10). • Practical take-away: – Pause before speaking. – Aim for words that match God’s character. – Remember that spoken truth in love carries eternal weight. and the consolation of my lips • “Consolation” centers on tender, hopeful language. “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (Proverbs 16:24). • The Servant’s model: “The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of discipleship, to sustain the weary with a word” (Isaiah 50:4). • True comfort directs hearts to the Lord Himself: “May…God our Father…encourage your hearts and strengthen you” (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17). • Practical take-away: – Speak Scripture promises aloud. – Share testimonies of God’s past faithfulness. – Use gentle tone and timing that fits the sufferer’s need. would bring relief • Job believes encouraging speech has tangible effect: it “would bring relief.” A “good word cheers” the anxious heart (Proverbs 12:25). • Ultimate relief is found in Christ: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). • God often delivers that rest through His people’s voices: “God…comforted us by the arrival of Titus” (2 Corinthians 7:6). • Practical take-away: – Expect God to work through simple, sincere words. – Trust that compassion expressed in Christ’s name carries His comfort. summary Job 16:5 shows a suffering man convinced that gracious, God-centered words can lift another’s burden. Scripture plainly teaches that our mouths are tools for divine encouragement: when we speak comfort grounded in God’s truth, we become channels of His relief. |
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