“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us” (2 Cor. 1:4 NLT).
A New Year offers new opportunities and challenges. As I sense the needs around me, I often think, “What can I do to help those in need?”
Sometimes it’s hard to know how to respond. In fact, some people may say,”the devil is in the detail,” inferring that there’s some mysterious secret hidden in the details. That term comes from the original phrase “God is in the detail,” which reminds us that the details are always important.
Discovering the mysterious details of how to help others requires wisdom. And God promises to guide us in this discovery process. But He wants us to ask for HIS help first. “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you … ” (Jms. 1:5 NLT).
Seek God first. The Lord promises to provide the guidance we need throughout our lives. Psalm 32:8 says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you” (NLT).
God often uses my experiences—good and bad—when I seek Him for direction in helping others. At times, He prompts me to share small things—like prayers, concerns, and a listening ear.
When my friend, Kathy, struggled with vertigo following her cancer treatments, I felt helpless to help her since she lived in another state. And I knew the misery of vertigo. When Kathy mentioned that she could not even read her Bible, I was able to read scriptures to her by phone.
Later, Kathy told me, “Your calls helped me survive my cancer treatments.”
Listen. In Matthew 11:15, Jesus asks His disciples, “Are you listening to me? Really listening?” (MSG).
As we seek God and ask questions, it’s important to listen for the answers. Sometimes instead of listening to God, I’m tempted to offer unsolicited advice to friends and family.
Have you ever received a gift that you didn’t want or need? Awkward! Our unsolicited gifts might actually offend instead of blessing others. Perhaps they need godly advice, not just a hasty opinion or thoughtless response.
Ask questions. I also ask questions when I’m trying to discern how to encourage others. What matters most to them? How can I discern how to help? What helped me when I faced a similar problem? What do I wish someone else had offered me when I faced my last crisis?
John 14:26 promises, “… the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (NIV).
Tell the stories that matter most. As a Christian writer, I never want to lose sight of the needs of my audience. Author Anne Lamott offers this advice: “Write the books you really wished were out there in the world.”
During a crisis, I look for resources to help me find solutions for my current needs. Encouraging words heal my soul when I’m desperate for answers. And I’m grateful for the writers who have poured their lives into helpful devotionals and books for those troubling days.
So, “… even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you” (Phil. 2:17 NIV).
As you plan your projects for the New Year, consider offering some words that could help meet the needs of others.
“… Words are powerful; take them seriously” (Matt. 12:36 MSG).
Can you think of a book that helped you through a crisis?
WordServe Water Cooler 
So many good details buried in the scriptures you reference and throughout this post.
“Have you ever received a gift that you didn’t want or need? Awkward! Our unsolicited gifts might actually offend instead of blessing others. Perhaps they need godly advice, not just a hasty opinion or thoughtless response.”
Such wise words. Thank you for a thought-provoking devotional served at the perfect time. I currently have two friends racing toward Heaven, and I’m not sure who will get there first. The struggle to know how to help their family and other friends is an ongoing challenge, but your words today remind me to go to the Source of all wise discernment.
I know it’s a difficult time for you and your friends who are “racing toward Heaven.” I trust that God will guide you all with His peace. And thank you for you faithful encouragement, friend.
Karen, I found myself sighing with relief and realization as I read your devotional, thank you.
Sometimes these wonderful scriptural reminders are just what is needed. Family and friends that are suffering with illness, disease, and crises, just need us to be present; listening. Your inspiration is greatly appreciated.
I think our presence and listening ears may be appreciated more than we may ever know. I know that is what I need most from my friends at times – just the assurance that they will listen and show up when I need them. Btw, thanks for your thoughtful and encouraging comment, Jacquie. It was just what I needed today.