Word for the day "How can we share in times of Grief"
Philemon 1:7 (NIV) Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.
Remember the ministry of presence is extraordinary in purpose.
When someone you know is grieving, you want to express your love and concern. But, how do you know what to say? Sometimes there just aren’t any words.But it’s important that you spend time with your friend or family member. What’s as important as anything is just showing up.What do you say to someone who is suffering? Some people are gifted with words of wisdom. For such, one is profoundly grateful.But not all are gifted in that way. Be careful because some people blurt out things that don’t really make sense. Remember there is always the Ministry of presence!Your words don’t have to be wise. The heart that speaks is heard more than the words spoken.And if you can’t think of anything to say, just say, “I can’t think of anything to say. But I want you to know that we are with you in your grief.”I have discovered people will really appreciate you and be strengthened when we just at times quietly show up.
Always remember the power of love is phenomenal in times of grief and pain.
Not even the best of words can take away the pain. What words can do is testify that there is more than pain in our journey on earth to a new day.Of those things that are more, the greatest is love. Please be reminded today to express your love family of God and watch the Lord bring healing.I often contemplate how painfully tragic the death of a child or loved one in the absence of love. Even as I have written this message there are some of you reading right now who are grieving the loss of your love ones,I send the power of love and the strength of God your way in this moment!When God calls us to serve, I believe the Lord calls us to come alongside others and become a part of their lives.The Lord uses us to hold each other up and to help others grow in their walk with life. Look at those who surround you and discern who you need to serve.Deliberately plan to become a part of their lives so that you can fulfill His call.In this context, the “ministry of presence” means moving in close to listen, laying down our defensiveness and agendas, and offering up empathy instead.
Point to ponder
Sharing in someone’s grief is no time to worry about your own discomfort and uncertainty about what to show.Believe that God will give you the words, the touch, the hug that will comfort. And you’ll be glad you shared in the moment and gave strength to a hurting soul.Our Leadership team is especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in the month of July 2018 by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Mr. William Wilson, Ms. Annette Straker, Mr. David Straker, Mr. Kenneth Washington, Mr. and Mrs. Carl and Marguerite Williams, Mrs. Denise Johnson, Mrs. Cynthia Waiters-Artis, and Ms. Gertrude Scott. ,Follow me on Twitter @James Baker_jr as I endeavor to encourage and empower leaders of today and tomorrow!Thank you for using the Word Cup devotionals brought to you through Grace and Truth Leadership. Why don’t you take the opportunity to write to us on our blog and let us know how we are doing in serving you, Great people.We are a faith-based, donor-supported ministry. If you have been touched by these daily devotionals and would like to make a monthly pledge or a special gift of any amount, please use the link below to give as the Lord leads.Kingdom Blessings,Pastor James Baker, Jr.