Job 11:2 Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?

Zophar, the Naamathite, the third of Job’s comforters, and probably the youngest of them, now at last takes the word. He begins by accusing Job of having spoken at undue length, and at the same time, boastfully and mockingly (verses 2-4). He then expresses a wish that God would take Job at his word, and really answer him, and show him that his punishment is actually less than what he really deserves (verses 5, 6).

Zophar shows less modesty and prudence, and more fire and heat in him than his other friends. He falls upon Job without mercy. He censures Job’s self-justification and his refusal to acknowledge the guilt which his friends attribute to him. He calls Job's speech a multitude of words: “Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man full of talk be justified?” (verse 2). The sense is, Job is an eloquent talker, and like most talkers, their words seek only to conceal their actions and hence, he asks should such a man be justified.

I find it amusing that Job’s friends were there supposedly to comfort him but ended up accusing him of sin and deserving the suffering. Zophar accused Job of being a great talker yet his own words were sharp and piercing.

Solomon says: “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise” (Proverbs 10:19). The sense is, you will say the wrong thing if you talk too much-- so be sensible and watch what you say.

A good encourager is one who knows how to say the right word and with the right tone. Yes, tone of the voice is as important or maybe, more important than what you say. Studies have shown that 10% of conflicts are due to difference in opinion and 90% are due to wrong tone of voice. A same statement but verbalise in different tones results in different reaction from the hearer. It's our tone to which others respond. Two simple words like, I’M SORRY, will have the hearer responding differently depending on how we verbalise it.

Zophar doesn’t mince his words. When I was much younger, I was somewhat like him. Perhaps, some of you too. And we excuse ourselves by telling the other person we are only trying to be frank and truthful. But truth can be delivered in nice packaging. The scriptures say one should speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

One reason why “constructive criticism” is seldom received with thanks is because it is seldom delivered in a constructive manner. Solomon says: “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). And, “There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health” (Proverbs 12:18).

We can see it happening between Job and his three friends. Their talks turned into argument and accusation. The problem is with words: they talked too much. It was peaceful when they sat down and were silent for seven days (Job 2:13).

I’m sure you have heard of this statement: “If you have nothing good to say; don’t say anything.” Silence is golden. “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).

Jimmy Lau

Psa 119:97  Oh how love I thy law! It is my meditation all the day.