How can we emulate Jesus' approach in John 11:30 in comforting others? Setting the Scene “Now Jesus had not yet entered the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met Him.” (John 11:30) Jesus pauses outside Bethany, giving Martha and Mary space to come to Him in their own timing. His stillness is deliberate, compassionate, and purposeful. What Stands Out About Jesus’ Approach • He is present without intruding. • He allows grief to surface naturally. • He invites, rather than forces, conversation. • He positions Himself where He can be easily found. • He remains focused on the Father’s timing, not human urgency (cf. John 11:6). Ways We Can Emulate Jesus • Choose nearness over distance. Show up and stay accessible—at the hospital hallway, on the phone, in the living room. • Practice patient stillness. Resist fixing; let the hurting come to you when they are ready. • Listen first. Hear the story and the sorrow before offering counsel (James 1:19). • Offer gentle invitation. “I’m here whenever you want to talk.” • Trust God’s timing. Pray silently for wisdom rather than rushing a solution (Proverbs 3:5–6). • Be ready to weep. Shared tears communicate Christ-like empathy (John 11:35; Romans 12:15). • Point to hope. After listening, remind them of resurrection promises (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14). Supporting Scriptures • “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) • “He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” (2 Corinthians 1:4) • “Encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14) Cultivating a Christlike Presence • Schedule margin so you can linger when people need you. • Keep your phone silent when visiting the grieving. • Memorize key comfort passages to share naturally (Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 41:10). • Pray beforehand: “Father, make me a vessel of Your comfort.” Putting It into Practice This Week 1. Identify one hurting person. 2. Go to them and simply stay nearby. 3. Speak only after they begin. 4. Share a brief Scripture of hope. 5. Follow up within forty-eight hours to show continuing availability. |
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