Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- September 18, 2013
“When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset.” Exodus 17:12
When people grow tired they need the support of sensitive friends. Their fatigue may flow from trials and tribulations out of their control. They may be worn down over ongoing financial challenges. A rebellious child finds them spent emotionally or a newborn keeps them in a chronic state of physical exhaustion. Who do you know that is overwhelmingly tired? Who needs your hands on support? Indeed, fatigue weakens faith.
When we extend a little bit of encouragement, it may prove to be a lifeline that leads someone to the Lord. Well-timed encouragement is eternal medicine for a suffering soul. Each day life extracts courage from a hurting heart, so we are present to give courage with a kind word, a little cash or a faith-filled prayer. Few complain of too much loving support.
“He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:10-11).
A fatigued faith especially needs spiritual encouragement. Maybe a friend or family member is fighting doubt in God, or has accumulated the world’s wealth but finds their soul bankrupt in unbelief. When life circumstances converge to crush worldly illusions, people become open to heavenly solutions. Your prayers strengthen a tired soul’s fragile faith. Your support gives hope for another to hold out for heaven’s help.
How do we support someone who resists assistance? First, don’t give up on them. A stubborn heart does not easily accept help, but pain incubates a humble heart. Stay close by and the wounded one will eventually reach out for help. If you are the one in need of help, be honest with yourself and others—humbly and gratefully accept acceptance.
Brilliant billboards of belief are saints who unselfishly support one another. A caring Christian community mutes a cynic’s sneer. A church that binds up the brokenhearted, cares for orphans and widows, and provides for the poor and needy compels others to Christ. When did you last call your Pastor and thank him for his labor of love for the Lord? A tired warrior of Jesus need not burn out for lack of grateful praying friends.
Support one another as Christ’s disciples and lost sinners will long for salvation from Jesus. Generous support is evidence of God at work. So, discern where the Holy Spirit is at work and joyfully join Him. Be a support and receive support all for God’s glory. For some—life support will lead to eternal life in heaven. Support brings salvation.
“These women were helping to support them out of their own means” (Luke 8:3b).
Prayer: Who needs my support? How can I best support them with the goal of glorifying Jesus?
Related Readings: Romans 11:18; 2 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; Hebrews 3:13
Post/Tweet today: A caring Christian community mutes a cynic’s sneer as we bind up the brokenhearted. #supportservants
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© 2013 by Boyd Bailey. All rights reserved.
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What a great message! Thank you. Inspiring.