Another important part of our class was the idea of bad things happening because someone deserves them. While we can certainly be capable of digging our own holes and wallowing in bad decisions that lead to even worse consequences, bad things do not always come from bad decisions. Some people seem to walk under a dark cloud they did not bring through their own actions. Jesus tells us that blindness need not come from sin, but can be a way for God to be glorified. (John 9:1-3) Support is needed in times of stress regardless of the circumstances. Additionally, when someone is in pain it is not the time to preach. Learning/teaching should occur but it frequently should be preceded with something more supportive.
How shall we begin being supportive?
- Look at your past experiences - are there times when others supported you effectively? What worked for you? What did not work for you? List some concrete ideas.
- Ask friends about their struggles - what worked for them? We all have different circumstances, their concrete suggestions will often be different from yours.
- Ask a ministry leader if they know someone who fits with your experiences and capabilities. Have you learned tough financial lessons? Could you help someone with budgeting from a place of supportive experience rather than a judgemental preaching stance? Have you lost someone close to you? Can you sit quietly with those who are grieving with filling the space with useless platitudes? There is someone who needs what you have to offer. Ask God to lead you to them.
