There are times when we need to speak, and there are times when we need to be still and allow God to speak to us. There is something about quietness that brings healing, comfort, and strength, especially during the time of suffering. However, there are times when words are appropriate. We may need to tell someone about our experience because it may serve as a source of inspiration. It is important that we allow God to grant us the wisdom and patience to know when to speak and when to be still.
In Job 2:13 we find these words:

“Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and nights. No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words.”

Job’s friends heard about his anguish, and they came to comfort and console him. When they saw Job from a distance, they hardly recognized him. They sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights, without saying a word to him. His suffering was too great for words, but their presence was a sense of comfort to Job. In doing so, they showed that they had compassion, because they knew that words would not help. Sometimes just your presence is a blessing. When you get a chance, read this entire chapter. Let us remember the example of Job’s friends, and learn not to speak so quickly, but take a moment to listen to God to know when to speak. Most importantly, may we all learn to show compassion.