In what ways can we show kindness to those in distress today? Setting the Scene: A King in Crisis 1 Samuel 28 recounts Saul’s desperate visit to the medium at Endor. By verse 23 he is physically and emotionally spent—collapsed on the ground, refusing food. “But he refused and said, ‘I will not eat.’ However, his servants, together with the woman, urged him, so he listened to them. He got up off the ground and sat on the bed” (1 Samuel 28:23). Even in this troubled setting, simple human kindness shines: urging him to eat, preparing a meal, sitting him up, staying near. These understated acts model how we can serve people who are overwhelmed today. Lessons in Tender Care Look closely at what the woman and Saul’s servants do: • They notice his condition—he is “greatly shaken” (v. 21). • They speak gently, “urged him.” • They meet a basic need—food. • They stay until he accepts help. The scene is brief, yet Scripture captures it because small mercies matter. God records these moments to teach us that practical compassion, even toward those whose troubles come from their own choices, honors Him. Practical Ways to Show Kindness Today Borrowing from the Endor example—and echoing the broader counsel of Scripture—here are concrete ways to care for people in distress: Physical care • Provide a meal, groceries, or a gift card (Matthew 25:35). • Offer transportation to medical appointments or church (James 2:15-16). • Help with household tasks—laundry, childcare, yard work (Galatians 6:2). Presence and listening • Sit with them; your silent company can steady a trembling heart (Job 2:13). • Let them tell their story without rushing to fix it (Romans 12:15). • Check in consistently—texts, calls, visits show they’re not forgotten (Proverbs 17:17). Spiritual support • Read aloud a comforting psalm, such as Psalm 34 or 46. • Remind them of God’s promises: “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18). • If they agree, pray with them and for them (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Practical advocacy • Research resources—counseling, financial aid, shelters—and guide them through applications (Proverbs 31:8-9). • Attend appointments as a supportive companion (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). • Help organize paperwork or budget plans; distress often clouds decision-making (1 Corinthians 14:33). Ongoing encouragement • Send Scripture-filled notes: “Cast all your anxiety on Him” (1 Peter 5:7). • Celebrate small victories—doctor visits kept, meals eaten. • Invite them back into community events when they’re ready (Hebrews 10:24-25). Scripture Echoes: Kindness Woven Through the Word • Good Samaritan—Luke 10:33-34: immediate care, personal cost, long-term follow-up. • Ruth with Naomi—Ruth 1:16-17: loyal presence through grief and poverty. • Paul and Onesiphorus—2 Timothy 1:16-18: refreshing a weary servant of God in prison. • Tabitha (Dorcas)—Acts 9:36-39: garments and good deeds for widows. • Early church—Acts 4:34-35: generous sharing so “there was not a needy person among them.” Closing Encouragement Kindness to the distressed rarely involves dramatic heroics; more often it looks like the quiet persistence of Saul’s servants and the woman of Endor—seeing a need, urging gently, meeting it practically, staying nearby. When we do the same, we mirror our Savior, who “will not break a bruised reed” (Isaiah 42:3). Let’s step toward the hurting with open eyes, open hands, and the confidence that even small mercies, done in Jesus’ name, bear eternal weight. |
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