What kind of friend are you?

I’ve been studying the book of Job this past month. Job is a guy that God himself said of him: There is nobody on earth like him.
Satan desired to turn him against God but had to have permission and God knowing Job’s heart allowed him to try. So Job’s pain began. He lost his children, servants, livestock and his body was inflicted with painful sores from the bottom of his feet to the top of his head. Not a great few days right? But Job still praised God.
Then his friends showed up. At first they sat in silence just being there for him. In their silence they were wise. Then they opened their mouth and one at a time began to speak. They would question Job in speculation about what sin God might be punishing him for. As time went on the questioning became accusations and they considered themselves wise in doing it. Have you ever had friends like that? Remember, God could see all of their hearts. He knew Job was a truly righteous man who loved him and would follow him whatever the cost. But his friends could not see that. So in their ignorance they spoke. In their not so great way they were trying to help. I believe that.
We often struggle with what to say when we have friends in trouble or when they have suffered great loss. We desire to help but we can’t figure it out. Our minds wander and soon we begin to believe we have answers to questions that were never asked!! What if we talked to God on their behalf and let the speaking come from him? What if we just come alongside our friends in their pain and just be there without words? What if instead of adding to the pain with our prideful judgements, we just love them no matter what?
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for seeing us. Those of us in pain or those of us who have sinned are loved by you either way. Help us to love like you love. Amen!