Bible Study Verses
Job 4:3-4
Think how you have instructed many, how you have strengthened feeble hands. Your words have supported those who stumbled; you have strengthened faltering knees. (NIV)
Thoughts
Have you ever been on a tough hike or some grueling outing with a pack that's too heavy in terrain that's too steep and rough? You catch yourself and your companions stumbling and fumbling along and you get discouraged and want to quit. Or, you keep thinking that there has to be a better route to make it to the top, and you need to find it in order to go on. You find that you and your buddies have to continually help each other or you won't make it to your destination.
You offer a hand up a bad spot, or maybe it's a word of encouragement when the other guy is ready to quit and give up. Maybe he's telling you that you have what it takes to get to the top of the mountain, even though you don't think you can make it. Maybe you point out a better route around a really bad spot.
It seems to me that this is what Job did for those around him. He gave instructions, he helped strengthen others, supported them, and somehow gave strength to those around him who were too physically exhausted to go on. What I see in Job is that he was an encourager.
When things got tough, he somehow motivated the other guy to keep going, to accomplish the goal. In Job 1:3, Job is described as "the greatest man among all the people of the East." This statement had much to do with his possessions, but I believe that it also had a lot to do with his character and his treatment of those around him.
(Cliff S)
Action Point
We all have encouragers in our lives - a friend or loved one who helps with a kind word or deed, sometimes by just being there and listening, or by reminding us that we can finish strong. Encouragers are necessary to counteract the negative pessimists that seem to be everywhere. And often, we must take on the role of an encourager. When you see a friend that needs help, be there for him, and be positive.
Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
In scuba diving we're taught to "know your limitations." Sixty feet under water in the ocean isn't the place to find out that you can't do something. This rule applies to all outdoor endeavors. Never put yourself in a situation that goes beyond your physical or mental capabilities. And, if you happen onto someone in trouble and needs help, be a Job!
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