Job begins his reply to Eliphaz's advice simply by expressing his anguish and misery (1-2). Eliphaz's words have not touched the depths of his suffering. He compares Eliphaz's advice to tasteless food (6-7). Job still wishes for death, because he cannot find any hope for himself (8-9, 11). Yet, whatever happens, he will not deny God (10). When we trust God as our father, we can pour out our hearts to him honestly, knowing he will not take it the wrong way.

In verses 14-23, Job laments the unhelpfulness of his friend's words. He hoped their words would be like water to refresh his spirit, but only found a dry stream (15-20). Job pinpoints the real motive behind Eliphaz's advice: when he sees Job's terrible suffering, he is afraid for himself (21). Job knows that honest words are good even if they are painful, but his friend's arguments are empty (25). Words with real power to help come from the heart, not just from an arguing spirit. He asks them to acknowledge that he is not being punished because of his sins (29-30).


Application: Father, thank you that I can pour out my heart to you when I am in anguish. Help my words be like cool water to strengthen my friends.
One Word: Give kind words like cool water.