How can we support others struggling with issues highlighted in Proverbs 23:29? Opening the Passage “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes?” (Proverbs 23:29). The verse speaks plainly—these miseries are real, and they are the fruit of sin’s deceptive allure, especially the lure of alcohol that the next verse identifies. Scripture is accurate and literal here: unchecked indulgence invites grief. Recognizing the Struggle Named in Proverbs 23:29 • Woe – deep anguish that feels endless • Sorrow – lingering heartache and regret • Contentions – broken relationships and constant conflict • Complaints – a spirit of bitterness and blame • Wounds without cause – self-inflicted harm and consequences that “make no sense” • Redness of eyes – physical evidence of overindulgence and exhaustion When we meet someone experiencing these, we are looking at the very pain the verse points out. Why We Must Care • Christ “came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). If He moves toward the hurting, so must we. • “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). • Indifference makes us accomplices to their fall (Proverbs 24:11-12). Biblical Mandates for Support • Restore gently – “If someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness” (Galatians 6:1). • Speak truth in love – (Ephesians 4:15). Hard conversations are required, but love must be the tone. • Warn but also encourage – “Admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone” (1 Thessalonians 5:14). • Offer practical hospitality – “Be hospitable to one another without complaining” (1 Peter 4:9). Practical Ways to Walk Alongside Relationship • Listen first; let them tell the story behind the wounds. • Validate the reality of their pain without excusing sin. Spiritual Help • Open Scripture together; show how Proverbs 23:29-35 exposes the trap and points to freedom. • Pray for them consistently and, when they are willing, pray with them. • Invite them to worship and small-group settings where they can see healthy fellowship modeled. Accountability • Establish regular check-ins (texts, calls, coffee meetings). • Recommend or accompany them to a biblically faithful recovery program. • Encourage professional medical or counseling help when withdrawal or mental-health issues surface. Practical Support • Offer safe, alcohol-free spaces for socializing. • Assist with transportation to appointments or meetings. • Help mend broken relationships by facilitating peacemaking conversations (Romans 12:18). Safeguarding Our Own Hearts While Helping • Stay rooted in daily Scripture and obedience (Psalm 119:9-11). • Maintain accountability yourself; avoid pride (1 Corinthians 10:12). • Set healthy boundaries so another’s crisis does not derail your walk or family life. Pointing Them to the Only Lasting Hope • Jesus still invites, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). • He alone forgives past failures (1 John 1:9) and supplies new power through the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). • Remind them that “if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). The misery of Proverbs 23:29 is real, but through compassionate, truth-filled support, we can usher struggling friends toward the freedom and joy Christ literally promises. |
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