Alternative Ways To Show Support When Unable To Help Directly
There is nothing as heartbreaking as seeing friends, family, acquaintances, or even strangers, in dire situations and not being able to help. In these moments, we often feel helpless and question our ability to ever be of help to people who need us. But the reality is that, there will be times when we will not be able to help that friend struggling with a personal loss or a family member facing a difficult decision, directly. Most times, things can really get complicated and in these circumstances, it is difficult to come up with any form of physical solution. Also, reasons such as financial difficulties, emotional instability, clashing schedules, and busy weekends can interfere with our ability to be physically present for those who need us. However, in moments like the same, it is wise to turn to God and ask Him for wisdom on alternative ways to minister love and support to those who need it. Because understanding how to empathize and provide emotional solace is essential in loving and caring for others, as God commands.
To him who is afflicted, kindness should be shown by his friend, Even though he forsakes the fear of the Almighty.
Job 6:14 NKJV
A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.
Proverbs 17:17 NKJV
And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.
Mark 12:31 NKJV
Curious about these alternative ways? Here are practical and godly ways to comfort and support others when we cannot fix things directly:
- Active Listening: One powerful way to offer comfort when we cannot help directly, is through active listening. It involves giving our undivided attention to the person and allowing them to express their thoughts and emotions freely. Active listening involves maintaining eye contact, using open body language, and refraining from interrupting or offering immediate advice. When we fully immerse ourselves in the conversation, we demonstrate genuine interest and validate the other person’s experiences. Thereby, providing a safe space to vent their frustrations and fears and promoting a sense of relief, love, and understanding.
- Profess words of life and hope: Faith is the greatest asset a believer has. And it behooves us as Christians to fill our words with faith and hope. When faced with situations where we are unable to help, speaking God’s truth is a wise way to improve the situation. Note that there is power in your mouth when you speak God’s word. Just speak God’s truth and you will realize how much help you have rendered already.
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.
Proverbs 18:21 NKJV
- Grieve with them: Before doing or saying anything to a person in an uncomfortable position, grieve with them. In John 11:33-36, we see Jesus Christ grieving with Martha and Mary over Lazarus’ death. Now, Jesus did not have to do that. But he did. He did it to show that he cared, understood, and validated their feelings. In essence, sometimes, supporting someone means that you are crying with them in their pain.
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2 NKJV
Even when unable to fix the problem, there are still ways to help. Offering genuine support, love, and faith can be sources of strength and solace for those in need.
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