Support
Come alongside others and providing gentle, appropriate assistance with a problem or struggle.
Galatians 6:2 Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.
Jesus was with his disciples through celebration and challenging times and left His Spirit for us. John 14:18
How does it feel when someone notices the “work-load” you are under
and helps “lighten your load”? When that happens, we feel supported and loved, don’t we? What words and ways do we use to communicate Support to those we love? We have some ideas for you to consider and would love for you to take a few minutes this week to discuss Support with your spouse.
Be intentional about setting aside a few minutes this week or planning a date night to discuss SUPPORT together.
Husband, would you lead this time by reviewing the statements to be completed or questions being asked so that you know how to make the most of your time? When you are ready, please initiate a “LOVE (Speak)” time with your wife.
LOVE (Speak) —
1. What fun activities do you have planned to do as a couple in the near future? How does taking the initiative to plan fun times with your spouse help him/her feel supported and perhaps “lighten the load”? If you have nothing planned, think about what your spouse might enjoy and either spring it on him/her, or if your spouse is not a spontaneous person, then ask for a time in the near future where you can schedule your fun time together as a couple.
2. Ask your spouse, “What do you have going on in your life that I could help accomplish or carry part of the load and communicate real support to you?” If they are willing to receive the support, then “just do it”!
3. Without Asking: Notice something your spouse is doing or trying to accomplish and take some of the burden from him/her or do something else that would free some time for your spouse to work on that priority. Has your spouse struggled with a loss or heavy heart lately? Would you attempt to support him/her by listening to the story…. again and responding with a supportive “I love you and want to help if I can. How can I come alongside you so that you don’t feel so alone?”
4. How does helping your spouse with their need for support fulfill the “law of Christ” mentioned in Galatians 6:2?
5. How was support communicated in your home during your growing up years? Was Dad supportive of your Mom or vice versa? Did parents support you or your siblings during high-stress times at school or elsewhere? What would you wish they or others had done to support you during difficult or stressful times?
What About the Kids?
You can use these questions/suggestions with your own children or another Child of Focus (if you don’t have children of your own). Remember that your children are never too old to have relational needs met.
1. What are your children experiencing currently that may be somewhat or very overwhelming for them? How could you support them in their times of high stress?
2. What part might being a good listener or praying with them play in being supportive of your children/Child of Focus?