Who ever perished being innocent?

Job 4:1-9, Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered, “If one ventures a word with you, will you become impatient? But who can refrain from speaking? Behold you have admonished many, and you have strengthened weak hands. Your words have helped the tottering to stand, and you have strengthened feeble knees. But now it has come to you, and you are impatient; it touches you, and you are dismayed. Is not your fear of God your confidence, and the integrity of your ways your hope? Remember now, who ever perished being innocent? Or where were the upright destroyed? According to what I have seen, those who plow iniquity and those who sow trouble harvest it. By the breath of God they perish, and by the blast of His anger they come to an end.”

Eliphaz charges Job with being deserving of this trouble for his actions; since he is obviously being punished, he must have done something to deserve it. Scripture is clear that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. We are saved only by His grace through faith, which is a gift from God. How easy it is to criticize others when we are not aware of the true situation. Are we able to offer help to others without accusations and blame; can we use every opportunity to intercede for them before His amazing throne of grace?

We bring each situation before Your throne of grace; give us words that build each other up with Your wisdom.