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Know-it-alls

Do you have a friend that knows it all; or at least thinks he does? Friend "know-it-alls" can test ones patience. In fact the words don't go together well (friend/know-it-all).

Job had lost everything that was dear to him (family, possessions, health) but he couldn't seem to shake his know-it-all friends. Now, the youngest of the bunch, Elihu, who has been "politely" keeping quiet, enters the attack (Job 32-34). He knows! Just ask him. If he'll let you! His bitter words are like salt in Job's wounds.

I need to constantly examine my "know-it-all" attitudes. It is hard to keep quiet when you know that you know, isn't it! But, it is the soft answer that will soothe the sad ones soul. Helpful word, instead of the "first words that come to mind" are what God will use to help the helpless. Thus, though Elihu waited before he spoke, he still did not use right words to revive the ruined Job. Help me today Father to guard my tongue!

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