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Location: Blogs Soul Spa |
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| Posted by: Soul Spa |
Wednesday, August 08, 2007 |
by Julie Gumm
There are many times that I feel helpless. A friend or loved one is going through a difficult time and I long to find the perfect words to say or the perfect scripture to quote. It is at those times that my memory and natural tendency to be talkative completely fail me.
I have a dear friend that has been struggling for the last 5 years with numerous problems both marital and financial. I am the one friend that she has turned to during these times and the only one that has stuck by her. Fortunately she has a strong relationship with God and the support of family.
We have had thousands of conversations in those years and when they turn to the difficulties she is facing I try my best to offer godly advice, encouragement and, of course, lots of prayer. But I still feel helpless. This is compounded by the fact that she lives on the other side of the U.S. and we only see each other a couple of times a year. I cannot be a physical comfort for her. I cannot hug her, or give her a shoulder to cry on. I can only listen and pray. She has heard the words “I don’t know what to tell you,” come out of my mouth more times than I can count.
A few weeks ago she sent me an email that just blessed me to no end. God had sensed my helplessness and sent her email as an encouragement. She quoted the song “Love Them Like Jesus” by Casting Crowns. Then she said, “Nevertheless, you are there, Julie, loving as Jesus would. Never taking on the responsibility that is our great God's, but allowing Him to use you as HE sees fit.”
How right she is – it is not my responsibility to fix her problems or even to be her great source of comfort. God takes that place. He is the one in whom she can find comfort and joy. He wipes her tears and gives her strength when she thinks she cannot face another day. All I have to do is let the love of Jesus shine through.
The next time you are unsure how to help someone in need I hope that you will remember these words and just let Christ’s love shine through you. Bring a meal, offer to babysit, send a note of encouragement, even if it just says “I’m praying for you.”
“Love them Like Jesus” by Casting Crowns
Just love her like Jesus, carry her to Him
His yoke is easy, His burden is light
You don’t need the answers to all of life’s questions
Just know that He loves her and stay by her side
Love her like Jesus
Love her like Jesus
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