How were Job’s friends such miserable comforters?

They came with big, long, windbag speeches that never seemed to end. Job 16:3.
Job had no idea why they needed to make the trip to accuse him and rub it in that his life was in a shambles. Job 16:3.
Job told them he could be an attacker and accuser against them if he so chose, but he would never treat them that way. Job 16:4.
Talking to his comforters had brought him no comfort. Job 16:6.
His friends, the comforters, scorned him and put Job down while lifting themselves. Job 16:20.
Job’s friends wanted to win an argument and be right more than help.
Job’s friends never considered that what happened to Job might happen to them.
They were friends only because they were “superior” and there to help the “inferior.”
They forgot all about the past, who Job had been, and what he had done
They caused Job to feel ripped apart by those closest to him.

Job’s suggestions about how to be a good comforter

Consider strengthening or encouraging your friend with your words Job 16:5
Think about how to ease the pain of your friend. Job 16:5.
It is better to be quiet if you do not have helpful, grace-filled words
Show some compassion rather boldly and harshly answering
Don’t talk badly about your friend to others, making them a byword or spitting in their face. Job 17:6.
Think before you talk
Show support instead of judgment.
Be there when they feel abandoned.
Don’t attack and accuse.
Be a friend, speak for him.

If you want to be a friend, think before speaking and realize that your words and actions can comfort your hurting friend.

Words can wound or heal. They can also inflict more pain unless used with understanding and putting yourself in the hurting person’s place.

You have heard the old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.“ The truth is pretty much the opposite.

Your compassion can connect you, while your lack of compassion destroys the connection. Are you a blessing or a lesson?

Do you really want to kick a man when he is down? Does that somehow make you feel better?