four women looking down — Photo by Rosie Sun on Unsplash

Welcome to the 42nd post of The Aim and Soar Life, a weekly Christian personal growth and lifestyle newsletter that provides actionable, relatable, and biblically rooted content to help you live abundantly and GROW YOU. GOD’S WAY.

Greetings!

Christmas is one week away and like the song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” A lot of us look forward to connecting with relatives from out of town and friends we haven’t seen in a while. The celebration of Jesus’ birth fills us with worship, and the anticipation of the new year fills us with hope.

woman in gray sweater wearing white mask — Photo by Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash

When the Holidays Aren’t Happy Times

Unfortunately, there are some who are not looking forward to Christmas or New Year’s because they are grieving the loss of their loved ones. For many, this will be the first Christmas and New Year’s they will spend without their spouses, siblings, or friends. It’s a hard time for some. My heart goes out.

Trying to support friends or family members in these situations can be difficult, especially if they are non-believers. How can you support someone without being accused of spreading “toxic positivity,” a term that means believing people should keep a positive mindset, no matter how bad a situation is?

1. Know Whom You Are Dealing With

The first thing to do is to be cognizant of whom it is you are ministering to. I do not minister to a non-believer the same way I minister to someone who knows God and who is strengthened by His Word.

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Pay close attention to the leading of the Holy Spirit when ministering. Quoting a bunch of scriptures may not reach someone’s heart the way you intend. And to be fair, this is not the right thing to do no matter whom you are dealing with.

People need to see that you care about them and their situations. You can demonstrate this by just being present.

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2. Ask People How They Would Like to Be Supported

One of the things people say when a friend or loved one is struggling or grieving is, “Let me know if you need anything.” This is not a good way to approach someone who is struggling. They are overwhelmed and grieving. Nine times out of ten, they are not going to reach out to you about something they need.

You must reach out to them. You can say something like, “How can I help/support you today?” or “I’d like to drop off lunch for you, what would you like?” These are simple questions that may allow you to serve someone in a tangible way. If the person refuses help, don’t be pushy.

Recognize that we all grieve differently. Don’t take it personally. Unless someone tells you to stop calling them or to stop checking up on them, continue to call and check in with them. Ask them what they need or let them know how you are available to help them, even if your offers are rejected.

3. Remember that Sometimes, Your Presence is All That’s Needed

Comfort can be provided in many ways. Your presence is powerful. Without saying a word or doing anything, you can comfort someone who is suffering by just sitting with them.

When a person is suffering and facing a tough situation, knowing that you are there physically can ease his/her tension and anxiety and give them the strength they need to make it through another day.

If the person you are supporting wants and needs a hug, hug them, and tell them you love them and that you just want to be there for them in any way possible.

A touch, a prayer, and your presence are all a part of your witness for God. You are bringing God with you because He lives in you! You are His hands and feet on this side of eternity!

Peace and love to you.

Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

Romans 12:15, NIV

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Until Next Time,

GROW YOU. GOD’S WAY.

Sherrhonda 😍

P.S.

I’d LOVE for you to meet me on the web:

www.sherrhondadenice.com

email: sherrhonda@sherrhondadenice.com

The Aim and Soar Life

How to Help Those Who Are Struggling