Elihu utilizes a gentle, yielding, respectful, yet firm attitude toward Job, many years his elder and superior in social standing. In Job 32:6, Elihu humbles himself, deferring to Job's age and experience, saying, "I am young in years, and you are very old." He shows proper respect to the other counselors, remarking, "Age should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom" (verse 7). Elihu listens to Job's entire argument, giving him full, undivided attention before he makes any comments or suggestions. In Job 33:6, Elihu acknowledges his common bond of frailty and mortality with Job: "Truly I am as your spokesman before God; I also have been formed out of clay." These reassuring words dismiss any thought of ulterior motives in the young man. In an attitude of humility, Elihu entreats Job as a concerned son would approach a father. He demonstrates the principle that the apostle Paul later teaches the Galatians, "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted" (Galatians 6:1). Having a healthy estimate of our frailties and shortcomings will put us in the proper attitude for admonishing a brother.
David F. Maas
Servant Leadership: Practical Meekness
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