Job 8-10 Being a bad friend is simple, follow these three steps

June 3rd, Job 8-10

       Lessons on how to give bad advice...

1. Assume things you know nothing about...
       Does God pervert justice? Or does the almighty pervert the right? Translation: This is your
            fault!

2. Appeal to the past as proof that you know something about the present...(because nothing ever
            changes and God never does anything differently) Some of you are quick to take note of
            satire!! " Inquire, please, of bygone ages...will they not teach you and tell you and utter 
            words out of their understanding."

3. Accusation based on issues surrounding #1. "Can reeds flourish where there is no water?... 
        Such are the paths of those who forget God; the hope of the godless shall perish."
             Something bad in your life...must be your fault.

       The interesting part is that Bildad says a lot of correct things. In another context with a different friend, his advice might be helpful. But in this case it's wrong from beginning to end. I see and hear advice that people give all the time. Often times I know more of the story than others. I think to myself..."if they only knew the whole story, they would realize how wrong they are."
       I appreciate Job's analysis. He honestly thinks he hasn't done anything wrong, yet is also willing  to say "let me know why you contend against me." 
       Giving good advice is a tricky thing. Don't assume you know more than you do. Job's friends made large assumptions and weren't much help. As much as God's word clarifies what we should do, it also clarifies what we shouldn't.