Shirley sought answers for months.
Weary and worn out from her health condition, tests, and appointments with specialists, she finally got her diagnosis. Her illness had a name, although not a cure. Her treatment included medication, diet changes, and exercise. Only God could have arranged Deb’s placement at the gym one morning, riding a stationary bike next to Shirley. During their conversation, Deb revealed she had the same unusual illness. Once they had finished exercising and were walking to the locker room, Deb suggested they meet again. That day, a supportive friendship began.
Moses was weary and worn out too. He had led the Israelites safely out of Egypt only to hear their complaints in the wilderness. When the Amalekites attacked them, Moses stood on top of the mountain with the staff of God in his hands. He raised his arms, indicating the strength of God. But Moses’ arms gave way, and when they did, his army began losing the battle. Seeing Moses’ fatigue, Aaron and Hur provided a seat for him, then supported him on each side by steadying his hands. Eventually, the Israelites won the battle.
Moses needed relational and physical support. Two men saw his need and met it. Today, we can come alongside others to link arms in friendship and to lessen their burdens.
We may not stand by someone in a military battle, but we have opportunities to minister to those facing tough times. That may include providing meals for a household that is financially challenged, being company for a friend grieving and alone, or giving encouraging words to someone living in disappointing circumstances.
Look around today. Who comes to mind that is weary and worn out? How can you link arms with them and steady them in challenging times?
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
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Marilyn Nutter loves finding treasures in unexpected places: gratitude in mulch, conversations with grandchildren, and secrets in an old trunk. Most of all, she has found the treasure of hope in loss. Unexpectedly widowed after forty-two years of marriage, she has found a brilliant treasure in Lamentations 3:22-23. After a career as a speech-language pathologist, Marilyn pursued writing and is the author of devotional books and a contributor to print, online publications, and compilations. She is co-author of the award-winning Destination Hope: A Travel Companion When Life Falls Apart. Her book Hope for Widows: Reflections on Mourning, Living, and Change will be released in 2024. She serves as a facilitator for Grief Support for Spouses and on the women’s ministry team at her church. Her blog encourages others toward hopeful living by weaving hope and purpose in their ordinary and challenging days.