As human beings, we are quick to judge and condemn at times.Christians can fall into the trap of judging a person or a situation without knowing the truth. This causes conflict and a separation of trust. Even avoidance arises. I was married very young,to a refugee from Europe. Some elderly Aunts advised us they were not giving us very much as a monetary gift because the marriage would not last. After my second miscarriage we were advised by similar relatives it was perhaps because my husband was a foreigner. In fact, it was a medical problem of an incompatible blood type group. Later we were parents of four healthy babies and married for forty-five years. However, these rumors were hurtful to a young couple starting out in life.
Often when members of our church are going through difficult times, some of us rush in too soon to advise, assist and solve but only add to the distress being experienced. The sufferers may wish to be alone for a while to just review, to rest and re-assess. When quietly offering our love and prayerful support we may need to step back but to let them know you will be by their side when and if you are needed.By all means uplift with constant prayer, tell them you are just at the end of a phone if needed. We all react in different ways to a crisis but a constant battering of contact may not be what is wanted or invited. Be caring, listen, love,be sensitive, offer help where needed but above all don’t be intrusive. Sometimes one has to let go and let God.
Our daughter became pregnant and at seventeen and chose not to marry .A few Church friends spoke out their disapproval and indicated our parenting needed monitoring. Others went into prayer along with gifts for the impending birth and drew alongside us with loving support. We threw out feelings of guilt and condemnation and accepted the future changes in our lives. The grandchild enhanced our family with her blessed birth.
Your respect, tact and non-interference, unless by request,are essentials needed in a situation of concern,but above all is your love, support and your prayers, without condemnation.That can sear the soul and Jesus would weep.
Be Blessed.
Lorraine