Last week we learned the importance of putting down roots by practicing trust in God when our lives are calm so we can stand strong during the crises of life. Scripture describes it as being like a tree that keeps it leaves during a storm and bears fruit in a drought.
There is another consideration we should think about:
A flourishing tree can be a refuge for others.
A tree with leaves provides much needed shade in a scorching hot sun. Likewise, our confidence in God means we can provide relief to those who are weary.
Tweet ThisA tree that bears fruit in a time of drought is a source of sustenance and nourishment. In the same way, when we are patient, loving, kind, and gentle—the fruits of the Spirit described in Galatians 5:22—we bring refreshment to those who are in need.
So how do we practically provide relief and refreshment to others during a crisis? We can:
Empathize
I phoned my friend, the one with her daughter in Brussels during the recent bombings, just to let her know I was thinking about her. It seemed a small, insignificant thing to do, but it was huge to her. It said I cared.
Exchange information
Through our network of family and friends we discovered Christian missionaries living in Brussels. Just the thought of having someone their daughter could reach out to, strangers across the world who could provide support if needed, brought reassurance for my friend and her husband.
Identify
Of course we second-guess our decisions when bad things happen. But, like my friend, I would have let my daughter go to Brussels. I need to tell her that when I see her.
Be alert
We must not stop living or give in to fear. But we can be smart. “What would you do if you had been in Brussels?” I asked my daughter. “Call the Embassy and get their advice,” she answered. And we need a new kind of street savvy. Be vigilant of what’s going on around you, but not paranoid. Most people are just like us—going about their normal business.
Persevere
We might wish certain things of our children, but when the ones you love are scattered and terror strikes nearby, it’s a reminder not to stress the niceties but to emphasis the necessities.
For me, it’s to say “I love you,” to show patience, and pass on the faith.
Pray
Quite often when circumstances are out of our control there is very little we can do except pray. Even if people don’t normally pray, they cry out when scared.
But when a child of God is used to praying in the still moments, it’s not such a stretch to rely on God during the storm.
Even if prayer doesn’t seem like a practical option, it is. “Don’t just tell me to pray,” someone once said to me. But, I am convinced God is hands-on through our prayers. I’m convinced the prayers of my grandmother kept me safe on travels to dangerous parts of the world.
Prayer is no guarantee bad things won’t happen but it shows our faith in God’s protection. Just knowing I was praying for her daughter brought relief for my friend.
What relief and refreshment can you extend to a friend today?
Linking up with Kelly Balarie at #RaRaLinkup, Holley Gerth at #CoffeeForYourHeart and Crystal Storms at #IntentionallyPursuing
Thanks for your wise, timely words and for linking up!
oh yes. Especially the prayer one. Praying for someone is the biggest thing we can do!
Rachel, I love the ways you suggest being a refuge to others. One thing I might add is to pray right then with the person. Stopping and praying right then doesn’t come naturally to me. But I’m trying because I’ve heard the relief in their voice, knowing we had prayed together. Thanks for sharing. : )
You’re right – praying then with the person is a good thing to do. It doesn’t come naturally to me either but I often feel nudged to do it.
Wonderful points! In empathy, we listen. And that is what I want to bring to others on my daily walk. Today I was nourished by another, and appreciated all he did, exampling all the points you have made.
Awww, Lynn, that’s so nice that you received nourishment from another person. So wonderful when we have someone to turn to.
What a great post! As we allow the Holy Spirit to take authority over our emotions and our flesh, the fruit of the Spirit flows through us–love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, self control! Many blessings to you ❤️
Good point, Beth. It’s so important to let the Spirit flow through us.
Thank you for extending the idea of putting down roots and using the leaves God grows to provide refuge for others in simple, concrete ways. Joining you from Intentional Tuesday.
So glad it was practical, Debbie. Thanks.
Love this Rachel!! I love the tree analogy as well, I also have a tree analogy when I speak on wellness! 🙂 Great practical tips for any situation. Nicely done!
Look forward to hearing your tree analogy, Jill.
I enjoyed your last post, and so often we read encouragements to put those roots down. Thanks for digging deeper and giving us the reason why. It’s not just about us!