Challenge: Wait & Listen

Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because they were years older than he.  And when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of the three men his anger burned.  Job 32:2-5 (NASB)

As I read the first portion of Elihu’s response to Job and his friends this morning, I was challenged by a not-so-new realization:  It is useless to have an opinion and to boldly express it if it is not done appropriately. 

Elihu is not even mentioned in the book of Job before chapter 32.  The first few verses of the chapter indicate that he had been there, if not the whole time then at least a good portion of it.  But he never spoke, nor was he introduced.  He had heard the arguments of all four men and had waited patiently to hear their wisdom.  Only when their wisdom never materialized did he speak.

So often I want to respond immediately.  It may be in a face-to-face conversation with a friend or an email.  It may be in an off-hand comment from someone or a Facebook status.  It may be in a church discussion or on a blog.  Either way, I want to respond and share a piece of my mind!  But, wisdom says to step back and listen.  To truly hear the depth of what is being said.  To seek out any wisdom that others may have – wisdom that can help my opinion grow and mature and be more in line with the Word of God.  Even to hear the depth of need not expressed in words but hidden in emotion and innuendo. 

Elihu’s anger and sharpness of response is justified.  But, had he spoken early, he would have never stood apart in his response.  He would have simply been caught up in the flow of the argument. 

I am challenged to stop and listen.  To really hear.  To seek wisdom in others.  To seek true need.  And then – only then – to present my argument, if – and only if – it truly needs to be presented.