Words That Wound
Silence and stillness before God (2 minutes)
Scripture reading
Scripture reading:
Job 16:1–5
Then Job replied: “I have heard many things like these; you are miserable comforters, all of you! Will your long-winded speeches never end? What ails you that you keep on arguing? I also could speak like you, if you were in my place; I could make fine speeches against you and shake my head at you. But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief.”
Devotional
Job had lost everything — his wealth, his health, his children. But perhaps one of the cruelest blows came from his friends. Instead of comfort, they offered criticism. They assumed Job had brought this on himself. Their words, intended to correct, only deepened his pain.
Sometimes bitterness is born not from actions, but from words — careless, judgmental, or insensitive. Especially in moments of suffering, unkind words can linger like thorns in the soul.
Job longed for a friend who would encourage, not accuse. Jesus is that friend. He never minimises our pain, never heaps shame on our wounds. He speaks with kindness, and His words restore. When we’ve been wounded by others, His voice is the one that brings truth and healing.
In time, Job forgave his friends (Job 42:10). His restoration was tied not just to God’s mercy, but to letting go of the offence. There’s healing in release.
Question to consider
Have someone’s words wounded you deeply? What might it look like to start loosening their grip on your heart?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, you are the Word who brings life. Speak into the places where I’ve been hurt by others. Help me to forgive as you have forgiven me, and teach me to speak life in return. Amen.
Conclude with silence (2 minutes)
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DAILY SEVENS
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Daily Sevens are devotionals to help you connect with God throughout the day. Each Office contains five elements: Silence and Stillness, Scripture, a Devotional Reading, a Question to Consider, and Prayer.
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