Commentators note that Elihu's statement, "I desire to justify thee," reveals a motive starkly different from Job's other friends. Instead of seeking to condemn, Elihu expresses a genuine wish to vindicate Job. Scholars explain that Elihu hoped to defend Job's character, believing his suffering was preventative rather than punitive. This models a charitable approach to correction, where the goal is restoration, not just winning an argument.