I Should Answer for God, Shouldn’t I?

Exploring Job 8

In this sermon, we delve into Job 8, examining the complex interactions between Job and his friends during his time of suffering. Pastor David Filener highlights the dangers of speaking presumptuously on behalf of God, using the discourse between Job and his friends as a cautionary tale.

Key Themes

• The Perils of Presumptuous Speech

• • Job’s friends, particularly Bildad, feel compelled to answer for God, offering explanations for Job’s suffering without divine insight. This reflects a common human tendency to fill silence with answers, often without considering whether those answers are divinely inspired or helpful.

• • Pastor Filener emphasizes the importance of restraint, urging believers to avoid making assumptions about God’s intentions or speaking on His behalf without clear guidance.

• The Ministry of Presence

• • Before speaking, Job’s friends initially sat with him in silence for seven days (Job 2:13), demonstrating the power of presence over words. Pastor Filener encourages this practice, highlighting that sometimes our presence and compassion are more valuable than any advice or explanation we can offer.

• Prayer Over Presumption

• • The sermon stresses the power of prayer, suggesting that prayer can be more effective than words in providing comfort and guidance. Pastor Filener urges the congregation to pray earnestly for wisdom and understanding before speaking into someone else’s life.

• Pointing to Jesus

• • Regardless of the situation, believers are encouraged to consistently point others to Jesus. This involves acknowledging our limitations in understanding God’s plans and trusting in His love and justice. 

Practical Applications

• Develop the Ministry of Presence: Be with those who are suffering without feeling the need to provide answers.
• Prayer Produces much more than your words: Pray for guidance and wisdom before offering advice or explanations.
• Point them to Jesus: Direct others to Christ’s love and mercy rather than relying on human understanding.
• Practical Love means more than your advice: Offer tangible support, like helping with daily tasks, which can be more meaningful than words.

Biblical Warnings Against Presumptuous Speech

Pastor Filener references several biblical passages to illustrate the dangers of speaking without divine insight:

• Matthew 26:40: The disciples fell asleep on their watch, illustrating human limitations.
• Proverbs 12:23: Encourages prudence in speech.
• Proverbs 17:28: Even a fool is considered wise if they remain silent.
• 1 Corinthians 7:12: Paul distinguishes his words from God’s, showing humility in speech.

Conclusion

The sermon closes with a call to humility and careful speech. By focusing on presence, prayer, and pointing others to Jesus, believers can better support those in suffering without presuming to speak for God. Pastor Filener reminds us that God is awesome and does not need us to be; He requires our obedience and love.

For more insights, read the full chapter of Job 8 and reflect on how you can apply these lessons in your life.