When you see someone going through a tough time, have you noticed how easily the words “just have faith”, (or something very similar), come out of your mouth? Or you pat them on the back and tell them things will work out. But is that really helpful to them? Think about the times you were troubled and someone said that to you? Did it help you feel at peace, or did it make you feel more troubled, irate, or bitter? Sometimes the best meaning intentions are not really helpful at all. I know that when I am in a tough spot, my perspective is blurred and my confidence is usually lacking. Instead of speaking mere words to someone, try doing something.
You can be a good listener. Sometimes all that person needs is for someone to listen, to actually hear them, to know that there is someone that really cares.
Be encouraging. Perhaps you can share a difficult time you experienced and how you got through it. It may not work the same way for them, but it gives others hope.
Offer some practical help, if possible. For example, someone is distraught because they broke their leg and can't get around. Perhaps you can offer to do some grocery shopping. Or prepare them a meal.
Most importantly, put yourself in that person's place. How would you want others to respond to you?
Remember, James 2:14-16 “What is the use (profit), my brethren, for anyone to profess to have faith if he has no [good] works [to show for it]? Can [such] faith save [his soul]? If a brother or sister is poorly clad and lacks food for each day, And one of you says to him, Good-bye! Keep [yourself] warm and well fed, without giving him the necessities for the body, what good does that do?"
Even worse are the so-called believers who SAY they will help, and then, don't! We all need to say what we mean and mean what we say. It frightens me (and should frighten every believer) that we will all be accountable for our every word...
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing more disappointing than taking someone at their word, only to discover their word didn't mean anything. And yes, when it occurs among Christians, it hits harder. The negative results in a situation like that chips away at our trust in people. Its easy to say not to let it bother you and just pray about it, but I think a better suggestion would be to go to that believer and let them know how they disappointed you. Perhaps it was an unfortunate situation that hindered them. Or maybe they just forgot. Either way, by bringing it to their attention it may make them more aware of the words they speak. Anothere benefit is that the situation has been exposed. Once exposed, you can defuse the enemy. Allow God to take what the enemy meant for defeat and turn it to victory.
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