How can we support others experiencing feelings expressed in Psalm 88:15? Facing Lifelong Affliction: Psalm 88:15 “From my youth I was afflicted and near death. I have borne Your terrors; I am in despair.” Recognizing the Depth of Despair • The psalmist speaks of chronic suffering—“from my youth.” • He feels stalked by death and overwhelmed by divine terrors. • Despair dominates his outlook; he sees no relief in sight. • Scripture records this raw anguish to show that God is not offended by honest lament; He preserved it for our instruction and comfort. The Heart of Compassion • Take these words literally; they reveal what some brothers and sisters truly feel. • Remember that Christ Himself “was despised and rejected… a man of sorrows” (Isaiah 53:3). He understands suffering from the inside. • 2 Corinthians 1:4 reminds us that God “comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” • Jude 22: “And indeed, have mercy on those who doubt.” Principles for Supporting a Suffering Brother or Sister • Presence over platitudes—Job’s friends helped most when they sat in silence (Job 2:13). • Truth over trite sayings—offer clear promises such as Hebrews 13:5, “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” not empty clichés. • Patience over pressure—Psalm 88 ends without resolution; some journeys take time. • Prayerful intercession—Gal 6:2: “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” • Practical love—1 John 3:18: “Let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” Practical Ways to Stand With Them • Check in consistently—brief notes, calls, or visits communicate, “You are not forgotten.” • Listen attentively—allow them to voice pain without rushing to fix it. • Share Scripture thoughtfully—read passages aloud; let God’s Word speak. • Serve tangibly—meals, childcare, errands; physical help echoes spiritual support. • Guard confidentiality—respect their story; avoid gossip. • Encourage professional help—wise counselors and physicians are gifts of God’s common grace. • Celebrate small victories—acknowledge even faint signs of hope. Passages to Bring Light • Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the crushed in spirit.” • Lamentations 3:22-24: “Because of the loving devotion of the LORD we are not consumed… ‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in Him.’” • Romans 8:38-39: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life… will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” • 2 Corinthians 4:8-9: “We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair…” Encouraged to Persevere God allowed Psalm 88’s unresolved ending to assure every afflicted believer that He hears even when the night stays dark. By embodying Christlike presence, truth, patience, prayer, and practical love, we become living testimonies that the light is still coming. |
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