July 22: Friends in the Fire

Theme: True Friendship Reflects God’s Compassion

Corry Chambers,
Shepherdess,
Women Ministries Director, CIC

Scripture Reading: Job 18 

In Job 18, we hear from Bildad, one of Job’s so-called friends. Instead of offering comfort, Bildad continues to accuse and condemn. His words are harsh and filled with imagery of doom: “The wicked man’s light goes out. His lamp no longer shines. He is trapped by his own schemes” (Job 18:5, 7, The Clear Word Version).

But the tragedy is not just the words Bildad speaks—it’s when and how he chooses to speak them.

Here is Job, broken and grieving, covered in sores, stripped of wealth, children, and health. He needs empathy, not accusation; prayer, not pronouncements. Instead, Bildad paints a graphic picture of a wicked man perishing in judgment and insinuates that this is Job’s fate too. Rather than lifting him up, Bildad adds to his burden.

This is where the Lord teaches us a deeper lesson—about the kind of friend He calls us to be.

We all face seasons when life turns dark—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a betrayal, financial hardship, or physical illness. In these moments, the voice of a friend can either feel like balm to our wounds or like salt rubbed into them.

The Book of Job reminds us that not every voice around us in pain is helpful or holy. Bildad had no idea what was happening in the heavenly realms. He spoke confidently but lacked spiritual insight. And worst of all, he lacked compassion.

As women of faith, we are called to a different standard—a standard of sincere friendship that reflects the heart of Christ.

Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a sister is born for adversity.” True friends show up with love, not lectures. They pray more than they preach. They sit in silence before they speak. They build up, not tear down.

• Are you a Bildad or a Barnabas? Barnabas in the New Testament was known as the “son of encouragement.” He supported, lifted, and stood by others, even when it was risky. Ask yourself: When my friends are hurting, do I help heal or deepen the hurt?
• Who are the friends in your life? Surround yourself with women who walk with God and who will walk with you through fire, not just sunshine. Evaluate your inner circle. Are they encouraging your faith—or feeding your fear?
• Be the friend you want to have. Sincere friendship begins with us. If you long for supportive, faith-filled women around you, start by being that woman to someone else.

Prayer:

 Dear Lord, Thank You for the gift of friendship. Help me to be a true friend—one who comforts, encourages, and uplifts in times of hardship. Teach me to speak with grace and to listen with compassion. Remove any spirit of judgment or self-righteousness from me, and fill me with Your love. Surround me with women who reflect Your character, and help me to be one who reflects You, even in the fire.

Amen.

When life feels like ashes and pain surrounds us, may we be the kind of friend who brings warmth, not more fire. And may we remember that in Jesus, we have the most faithful friend of all—one who never accuses but always advocates.