Support: Coming alongside others and providing gentle, appropriate assistance with a problem or struggle. (Galatians 6:2)
Matthew 22:39
“Love your neighbor as yourself”. This couldn’t ring more true or be more relevant than it is today. How can we support one another during these days? Treat one another as you would want to be treated. Ask how you can help. Check in on loved ones and neighbors. Going to the store? Ask a neighbor if you can get something for them. Mail an “I was just thinking of you “ card. Do a video chat. Yes, we are all quarantined in our homes, but we can still support one another.
Ask God, “How can I help those near me? Father, show me appropriate ways to support my neighbors and family during this time of quarantine.” He WILL nudge your heart with ideas! He will give you creative or simply practical ways of showing His love to others. When Jesus said, “Let your light shine” so others will see your “good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”. Jesus is a Savior with great compassion, so we might introduce an unbeliever to the heart of Christ by being compassionate and supportive during these days and beyond.
How are your kids doing? Are they fearful? Anxious? Not understanding this new, weird routine? They need a little extra support during this time, don’t they? You know your kids better than anyone. Have you had some heart to heart talks with them as to what they are feeling, thinking, carrying inside? If you haven’t had those conversations, may I suggest you do so? You may find clues as to the support needed through your conversation with him/her.
With this uniquely difficult time in life, taking time to ask your kids questions, listen well, look them in the eye, let them finish talking, only talking as needed, and holding them closely or touching them appropriately may be a turning point in your relationship with your children.
Mom and Dad need support too! Maybe you find yourself homeschooling your kids and the challenges that very important investment brings.. Maybe your patience is running a little thin? (It’s OK you can be honest!) Husband/Wives, now is a great time to get creative in ways you can show a little extra support. Maybe set up a bubble bath, with candles and music, so your spouse can have a little time “away” while you take the kids out in the backyard? Take the kids for a drive in the car while your spouse has some alone time at home. Ask one another what she/he needs right now.
Do the Book? Would you read Psalm 118: 8-9? Simple but Profound!
Perhaps one or both parents are out of work, hopefully only temporarily, but each of you needs support right now. Would you consider engaging God in this time? He wants to be your support. He has supplied your needs up to this point, hasn’t He? Praise Him and trust Him for today and all the tomorrow’s He allows.
Friends, you’ve got this! God is still in control! HE is our ultimate support! He designed the ultimate support system: family, friends, fellow believers, neighbors…..relationships.