Watching someone suffer is, for me, one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do. You hurt for them. You have difficulty understanding why this is happening.
In the case of Job, God was working behind the scenes, allowing Job to suffer. In the end God never told Job why He allowed him to suffer. Rarely do we know why we suffer. Some think that they do or make foolish guesses like Job’s comforters did. And, unfortunately, there are plenty of Job’s comforters around today.
I have found that it is better to be quiet and listen. Hold a hand, offer to pray, tell them that you love them, be there for them. If they open up, don’t offer platitudes; it won’t help and may make it worse. Above all, be genuine. (People can tell when your not.)
Many times I have wanted to take their place. But Jesus already did. He suffered on our behalf. He has a reason for allowing it. And our source of ultimate comfort is in Him.
yourtendermercies 
Thank you for this. When I had a 16 week loss during a pregnancy and then a miscarriage right after, some of the comments were cruel in an attempt to be helpful. Comments that we already have 4 beautiful children so it’s okay, or the baby would be deformed and we didn’t want that (but we did), or that God has a purpose for this pain so we can buck up…those kind of comments assume a flaw some where. Fact is, there is sin in the world and God allows things to happen, but we know this already. It’s best when the person suffering decides to make the comments about God’s plan for their lives and the listener should just pray for the one in pain.
You have walked and continue to walk the lonely road of suffering. I know the Lord will use your blog to minister to hurting hearts.
Love you ~ My amazing husband man ❤
Good advice Randal. Good to see the new blog. It has that “new blog” smell 🙂
This is gonna be a great blog, Thank you for starting it. I for one don’t understand all the suffering people go through even myself you know most of my issues. And your right sometimes it is best just to have someone to listen hold a hand. look forward to reading this often.
Thank you all for your prayers. All of you have a special place in my heart, although most of us have never met in person. All of you have “entered into His sufferings” and therefore understand the heart of those who suffer and the heart of God towards them.
May God minister His love and grace to us all.