How to Help a Suffering Friend
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up …
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Job suffered more than anyone I know. I know he gets everything back in the end, but he walked a long, hard road. And his friends became part of the problem. I don’t want to be a friend like that.
As I read Job’s story, I discovered some ways to be a better friend — especially to someone suffering.
Visit them in person. Job 2:13 Job’s friends sat on the ground with him for seven days and nights. No one said a word to Job, for they saw his suffering was too great for words. (NLT)
Encourage your friend through notes, texts, etc.Job 16:5 If it were me, I would encourage you. I would try to take away your grief. (NLT)
Listen. Really listen.Job 21:2 Listen closely to what I am saying. That’s one consolation you give me. (NLT)
Who do you know that’s suffering? How could you be a friend to that person today?
Stacy
