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The words “supportive wife” could never describe Job’s wife. Of all the people who surrounded Job in his hour of need, his wife should have been by his side to encourage and console him. Instead, she told Job to give up, give in, curse God, and kill himself. Instead of being a good and kind helper to her husband, Job’s wife became a discouragement to him.
Poor Job. He lost everything— his wealth, family, and health. Then his wife turned on him and told him to curse God and end his life. And, to top it all off, his friends continued to deepen his wounds by accusing Job of causing his own calamities due to some deep, dark, secret sin in his life (Job 19:2–3). Who needs “friends” like this?
As one of God’s women, you are called to be a helper, a teacher, and an encourager of women. That leaves no room for careless or thoughtless words. Your entire ministry of encouragement shuts down when you speak words that needlessly wound. And those words can never be taken back.
Oh, that we would be like Jesus who “committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth” (1 Peter 2:22). God asks you to serve and to better the lives of others, including your family and friends. No life has ever been uplifted by thoughtless, heartless words. Instead, do as Jesus commands you: love one another.
RESPOND
Lord, as I think about the cruel things Job’s wife and friends said to him, I am humbled. I know that my speech is not without sin. I do use careless words sometimes. I ask Your forgiveness. Keep my speech limited to words that build up and do not tear down. Amen.
RENEWING RESOURCES
Creating a Beautiful Life— PRE-ORDER this book with a built-in Study Guide today and prepare to create a more beautiful and productive life. Free, limited-time GIFTS included when purchased before November 6! Click to view this helpful Bible Study.
A Woman After God's Own Heart Bible — Find fresh encouragement for everyday concerns and vision for a transformed life in this Bible.
REFLECT
Am I careless with my words, or do I weigh them before speaking? Am I a supportive wife?
REMEMBER
No life has ever been uplifted by thoughtless, heartless words.
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Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:
Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:
One of my favorite words in the English language is “bittersweet.” It’s sort of like the well-known announcement, “I’ve got good news and bad news. Which do you want first?” This picturesque term always reminds me that many occurrences in life fall simultaneously into the glad/sad category, bringing forth both emotions at once.