What steps can we take to support others experiencing deep despair as described? The Depth of the Cry: Psalm 88:3 “For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to Sheol.” Recognizing the Weight of Despair • Scripture presents Psalm 88 as a literal record of a believer’s anguish, showing that even the godly may feel overwhelmed. • God preserved this psalm so we can understand that such darkness is real, yet not beyond His reach (Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 42:3). Step 1 – Draw Near With Listening Ears • Job’s friends helped most when they simply sat in silence (Job 2:11-13). • “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15. • Avoid fixing or lecturing; be present, attentive, and patient (Proverbs 18:13). Step 2 – Lift Them Up in Prayer • “Is anyone suffering? He should pray.” James 5:13. • Pray aloud when appropriate, standing in the gap like Epaphras who “labored earnestly” in prayer for others (Colossians 4:12). • Keep interceding even when they feel unable to pray (Romans 8:26-27). Step 3 – Speak the Word of Life • Share passages that anchor the soul without minimizing pain: – Psalm 34:18 “Yahweh is near to the brokenhearted.” – Lamentations 3:21-23 “Great is Your faithfulness.” • Read small portions together; let Scripture do the heavy lifting (Hebrews 4:12). Step 4 – Carry Practical Burdens • “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2. • Provide meals, childcare, rides, help with chores—tangible acts of love (1 John 3:18). Step 5 – Guard the Hope of the Gospel • Remind them that despair does not have the final word: – John 16:33 “In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world.” – 2 Corinthians 1:10 “He has delivered us… He will yet deliver us.” • Point continually to Christ’s finished work, not their present feelings. Step 6 – Involve the Wider Body • Encourage regular but gentle contact from trusted believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Seek wise, biblically-faithful counsel when deeper care is needed (Proverbs 11:14). Step 7 – Persevere in Love • Love “bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:7. • Stay available for the long haul, knowing God often works gradually (Philippians 1:6). Holding Fast Together Despair described in Psalm 88:3 is heavy, yet Scripture assures that Christ’s light ultimately prevails (John 1:5). By listening, praying, sharing truth, offering practical help, and persevering in Christ-centered hope, we become instruments of the Lord’s steadfast love to those walking through the deepest night. |
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