Someone you care about is struggling. Perhaps they're sick, or angry, or discouraged. Maybe a child has broken their heart or their marriage is in shambles. Maybe it’s not one big ugly, but a lot of little uglies that have them down. They've lost their perspective, and their faith is flickering. You know you can’t fix the situation, but you love your friend, and you want to help. What can you do?
Here are four steps to take when someone you care about is hurting:
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Lori,
ReplyDeleteThank you for this post. I'm so thankful for my friends who supported me in various ways during my mom's cancer journey (slightly less than a year). I try to be there for my friends too: many times praying is the only thing I can really do and some times just being there for a chat is helpful too.
Blessings!
Kim,
DeleteYour personal example of the way friends ministered to you during your mom's illness is a perfect example of the preciousness of loving friends. I know it makes you a more compassionate person as well. Blessings to you.
Listening is one of the best things people have done for me. Sometimes just being with someone, even when they're not talking is a powerful comfort because they're literally not alone in it.
ReplyDeleteYou make an excellent point, Ellen, that we don't have to have all the "right" answers to be helpful to someone. Sometimes just being there with them is the very best medicine. Thanks for stopping by today.
DeleteThese reminders are so important and so many times the only option we truly have. So many times we want to do something but many times we have to remain faithful and trust that God is faithful. That's easier said than done. Thank you for your posts.
ReplyDeleteThese reminders are so important and so many times the only option we truly have. So many times we want to do something but many times we have to remain faithful and trust that God is faithful. That's easier said than done. Thank you for your posts.
ReplyDeleteLynn, I'm often comforted that God knows best what my loved one needs, even when I don't. And he has the world's resources at his disposal. A very good assurance that he's quite able to take care of them. Thanks so much for stopping by today, friend!
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