You will forget your misery ...
You will forget your misery; you will remember it as waters that have passed away. And your life will be brighter than the noonday; its darkness will be like the morning. And you will feel secure, because there is hope; you will look around and take your rest in security. You will lie down, and none will make you afraid; many will court your favor. (11:16-19)
A third friend, Zophar, now responds with (what appears to be) sage advice to Job's last anger filled discourse. Before giving him this (so called) wisdom he blasts Job with condemnation questioning Job's claims of being blameless and accusing him of being a babbling worthless man. His soliloquy is filled with pious clichés that seem to defend God and list the reasons for this perceived divine judgment. These words above are his interpretations of God's promises.
As he speaks, Zophar seems to exude a brash confidence that he is right about Job and why tragedy has befallen him. He seems assured that he has the antidote for what ails Job. I have been around people like Zophar who seem to have all of the "biblical" answers for my pain. They give advice that reveals such a cluelessness approach to pain. Advice such as this only angers people that are in pain and keeps them stuck in grief. The advice seems wise. It is foolish.
Put a guard over my mouth Lord. Help me to not inflame the anger of a hurting friend with foolish religious clichés.
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