Don't Cheapen the Tough Stuff With Words

Don't Cheapen the Tough Stuff With Words

My last blog post, "Have You Noticed? Life Stuff..." was based on a true story. Mine. The last couple of days have been tough. It isn't me or my husband, B, but people we know are dealing with the tough stuff of life and we're walking through it with them. So, our hearts are heavy. We don't like them going through the tough stuff of life. It's, we'll... Tough... We know it's part of life. It just sure doesn't help them as they go through it, though.
Have you noticed there are some tough stuff that's just so yucky that words diminish what they're going through? Words just aren't enough. They can actually cheapen what they are experiencing. And a word can cause them damage. It can cause them more pain. Just when they are going through enough pain as it is.
B and I learned long ago the biggest blessing through those times is not saying a word. It's just being present, and being there, that is everything.
Saying "I'm sorry" can hurt them more at this time.
It's best just to be. To look them in the eye. To touch their shoulder. To sit. To pray silently.
The only right words are, "I'm here. Tell me what, if anything I can do." Then, give them more silence so they can digest what has happened. So they can steep in your quiet strength, where they know you aren't going anywhere... even when you leave, you are still there.
Don't ever cheapen these times with words. The best of intentions words can hurt. It's best to keep your mouth shut. Even if you sit there with them in silence for an hour. Just being there is everything to them.
This is being Jesus in the skin.
This is showing them His love.
Don't cheapen their tough stuff with words.
Words hurt and damage.
Just be there. Be present.
This is the ministry of presence.
This is living a life of Jesus.
When life stuff happens, show them Jesus. Not you.