Knowing When to Walk Away

 

    When it comes to debates or arguments, there comes a time that one party or another just needs to walk away.  It is the point where no one has anything nice or productive to say.  The words that do come out may cause long term pain at this point.  It is no always easy to know where that line is.  Too often we cross it before realize that we went too far.

    Job and his friends had probably crossed that line after the first round of the discussion.  The second round seemed to be very insulting and hurtful.  The small group were at a place where if they walked away now they may never recover the friendship.  The saying goes never go to bed angry.  The reason is that it allows bitterness to seep deep in the soul. Sitting in your anger allows the acceptable apology time to lapse where the other person may not want to hear it anymore.

    Job's friends personal attack made Job feel bitter toward them.  It is understandable.  They crossed the line even if they meant well.  He never asked for their opinion.  Job was also angry with God.  He was seeking God's guidance.  His soul was crying out to God and he felt like God was not listening.  He was so close to the truth, but it was slipping past him.

    Through all the negative feelings, bitterness, and anger.  Job still held onto his innocence.  It takes a strong character not to break under that kind of pressure.  Even with all of his strong characteristics and conviction, Job was slipping into despair.  This is a dangerous place.  It is like corning a wild animal.  Anything could happen because despair is more than depression.  It is the complete loss of hope.  However, Job never stopped seeking God or honoring Him.  That is what saved him.

Job 23