tiqva - grounds for hope; longing expectation. Literally, a chord, which can twist and stretch.
Oh, that I might have my request and that God would fulfill my hope...What strength do I have in order to persist? And what is my end that I should forestall it? Is my strength like that of stones? My skin as bronze? Can I even help myself, or is all chance of help driven from me?
A despondent person deserves kindness from his friend, even though he strays from the fear of the Highest One. Job 6: 8, 11-14
Job's friend's words (in Job 5) have brought no comfort. They were ill-timed and accusatory words. Can we take a lesson on how to be a true help, provide hope? A person is emptied by calamity, so there is no source of hope within. When a person is so afflicted, help (ezra - assistance) and wisdom (tusiya - sound knowledge; substance) cannot come from within.
What provides help and hope? Kindness, goodness, faithfulness, mercy. We don't have to have answers, instead, we can care for a person in distress. We don't have to solve their problems, but offer compassion, love and support: a phone call, a silent sitting, a listening ear, a hug. The presence of another human being provides hope. Could you provide such a simple act of kindness?
Lord, draw me into the presence of the hurting. Help me to carry your spirit of comfort to others. Amen.
