Be a Remedy Not a Reminder

I loved in my Bible study when they said we need to be a remedy not a reminder. That is not a new concept but one I needed a reminder of how to be a help to others. When someone is going through a rough patch whatever that may be we need to step in and walk beside them. Not ask what we can do and are they okay. Of course they are not okay. Asking what we can do just brings a nod and answer of nothing. Instead we can express that we know they are not okay and here are some ways we can help.

Go for a walk with them.
Take a meal.
Listen.
Keep in touch.
Share positives in your own life when they just want to focus on something other than their situation.
Share a Bible verse that may encourage.
Let them know you are praying for them.
Run errands for them.
Send a card like Terra did.
Find a way they can join you in uplifting others.

Bottom line, come up with ideas to support and encourage. Don’t expect them to come up with how they need you. At times life is overwhelming and the thought of deciding becomes just one more burden. Fill in where you see a need. Be observant. Remember they are not okay so don’t ask. Be a remedy not a reminder that life is not okay at the moment.

This feels like a lecture and that is not my intent. I am guilty of being a reminder not a remedy myself. I know it was helpful when we lost our son when people just did things for us. I will never forget laying with Ron on our bed and hearing loads of laundry being done. My two sister-in-loves washed and put away all the sheets that our family used as they surrounded us with their love and support. It was comforting to hear the laundry that is such a common sound of life as normal. But don’t grab someone’s dirty undies before asking if it is alright. Just saying. ;-)


In Him,
Joyful
5-29-20