We’ve all faced moments when someone we care about is hurting and we’re not sure what to say. In this post, Larry shares simple biblical ways we can bring true edification to people who need encouragement. Here’s Larry:
What’s the best way to help someone who is walking through a difficult struggle? God tells us that moments of edification build a person’s spirit and strengthen their faith (Rom. 15:1–2). Yet the practice of building others up is often overlooked in our relationships. We may feel inadequate or unsure of how to do it. Here are a couple of ideas to help us become better edifiers.
Purpose
Scripture reminds us, “As a man thinks within himself, so is he” (Prov. 23:7 NASB).
Before a recent meeting, I asked the Lord to help me bring edification into our time together. Afterwards I realized I’d listened more and talked less than usual. The meeting was rich, and the gentleman wanted to meet again. When I make edification my purpose, my personal agenda and insecurities fade into the background. Edification is selfless love (1 Cor. 8:1).
Perception
Paul prayed, “I pray that your love may abound more and more in real knowledge and all discernment” (Phil. 1:9 NASB).
Being able to “read the room” is a valued social skill. But being able to discern what is spiritually fitting in a moment greatly influences our ability to edify.
Scripture also says, “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear” (Eph. 4:29 NASB).
One day when I was in an emotional ditch, a friend said, Larry you have a real gift for what you do.” He has no idea how that simple sentence lifted me out of the ditch and built me up. It didn’t take a speech—just a sincere word at the right time.
We can offer so much help to those who are struggling and those who want to soar. Let’s be people who edify.
Personal Request
We would appreciate you considering Lighthouse in your financial giving. Your support helps us continue offering practical biblical help to many who cannot afford the care they need. Right now, your gift of up to $10,000 will be matched. Thank you for being a vital part of Lighthouse Ministries.
What’s the best way to help someone who is walking through a difficult struggle? #ChristianHope, #Faith Share on XClick here to comment.
Blessings,
Sometimes I link to these great sites:
#MondayLinkUp #InstaEncouragements, #Let’sHaveCoffee, #Grace&Truth
“It didn’t take a speech—just a sincere word at the right time.” It can be so simple. Thank you for this reminder!
I like that too. We don’t need to complicate it. 🙂
Yes, sometimes just a simple word…or simple presence is all that is needed. Blessings…
Thanks, Amy. I agree.
Thank you for sharing that – so helpful. It is often hard to know just what to say or do to help someone.
Ann, I think we feel burdened to do things just right. When maybe all we need is to be available to the Holy Spirit and trust Him to lead.
This is so very true–and liberating: ” When I make edification my purpose, my personal agenda and insecurities fade into the background.” What a good reminder in this season that is so busy with people.
I like that too. Thanks, Maryleigh.
I’ve taken to praying that before some meetings, too–that God would guide our words and helps us encourage each other. It does help guide my thoughts and responses. I love, too, that sometimes all that is needed is a “word in due season.” May I be open to God’s promptings to share edification with others.
Yes. And Larry reminded me that edification sometimes includes correction so the person can become stronger.
Very helpful! Like Barbara, I’ve learned to pray before such encounters.
It makes all the difference!
True, tender edifying words seem in short supply these days, friend. Thank you for putting this front and center where it belongs!
May Advent’s richest, peaceful blessings be yours.
Thank you, Linda. And may you experience the same.
We may never know how much our kindness helps another, but as you remind us, Larry, our Lord helps us reach out to others in need–if we seek His guidance. Thank you for your compassionate message.
Katherine, you’re right. And we don’t have to know. There’s satisfaction in pleasing God.
Thank you Debbie for this much needed discussion. We can all do a better job in this department so I’m thankful for the message.
Thank you, Yvonne.