God Uses People to Care for People
God’s Definition of Caring – Part VI
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:1-11
Key Verse: 1 Peter 5:2a NLT
Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you…
Another important time to offer care to people is when there is death or looming death. Our care might be for a person that has lost a loved one or is facing their own death.
It really does not matter whether we are talking about a pastor’s role or a layperson’s role, both can be vital in times of grief. I cannot overstate how important these moments of caregiving are as our fellow believers go through seasons of grief.
Beyond my presence, I want the Holy Spirit to bring thoughts to my mind that are specific to the person to whom I am giving care. I take time to pray beforehand. My prayer is that God opens my eyes to their situational need.
For example, I met with a wife whose husband took his own life. I spoke to her and their two daughters. While we were talking about the arrangements, it came to my mind to talk to them about God’s view of suicide. As I shared my thoughts, one of the daughters began to cry saying she had questions and was worried that her father went straight to hell because he committed suicide. I shared with them the compassion and mercy that God would have with a person who was no longer able to think rationally about life and death. The Holy Spirit knew how badly this young person needed to hear that and nudged me to give her that comfort.
When you are in these tough situations, remember to take time to ask God for help with your caregiving.
When dealing with someone whose doctor gives a terrible diagnosis and a short time to live, pastors and godly laypeople can be a great source of comfort. Every situation is different, but the facts of what Jesus has prepared for us believers after this life is over is always good to hear.
Once I gave a talk on the fantastic job that Jesus did in preparing a place for us. I suggested that it would be so much better than our best days here on earth. I had a man come up to me afterwards and tell me he hoped I could give that talk when his time was up. His comments reminded me how comforting our message of hope is to those dealing with a short time to live.
Remind grieving believers of the rich and glorious inheritance God has promised when this life is over.
Father, give me the right words to share with Your children who are grieving. In Jesus’s Name I pray, amen.