Reaching Out

Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

“Lord, be with my friend. Heal her body and take away her pain. Be close to her and give her peace as she waits for the doctor. Amen.”

Penelope’s text arrived as Kesia lay curled on her side in her hospital bed, trying to breathe through the pain. She had arrived at the ER an hour earlier, and her grandpa was sitting at her bedside as they waited together for the doctor. They suspected it was her appendix, and as Kesia reread Penelope’s texted prayer, her tears almost blurred out the words.

Another text came through. “I wish I were there with you! How can I help?”

How can I help? Those four simple words felt so important in Kesia’s moment of uncertainty and fear. She was putting on a brave face for her grandpa because she didn’t want him to worry, but Penelope’s prayer and question reminded her that she was loved by God, family, and friends. She had an entire group of people surrounding her with prayer and love. That knowledge helped her stay calm. And when Kesia was released from the hospital several hours later with her appendix still in her body and with medicine and the promise that everything would be fine, Penelope’s words stayed with her.

It’s hard to watch friends struggle with something hard while we wonder how to help and whether there is anything we can do that would make a difference. But Proverbs reminds us that kind words are good for us, body and soul. In those times, offering prayer and encouraging words is always a great first step. But simply asking the question, “How can I help?”—like Penelope did—is another wonderful way to respond. A heartfelt prayer and offer of help can point a friend back to Jesus. Even if there’s nothing we can do about the situation in the moment, a genuine offer can be enough to bolster the spirits of a friend who is going through a difficult time.

Things to Think About

• What has someone said to you in a moment of struggle that you found encouraging and helpful?
• What might you say or what are some questions you could ask to show that you love and support a friend?

DAILY ACT OF FRIENDSHIP

Pick up a plant or small flower arrangement at the florist (or gather flowers from your family’s garden) and surprise a friend who is having a bad week.