Fellow believers comfort us by offering loving support, sharing Bible verses, and reminding us of Jehovah's care during difficult times.
From whom can we receive comfort, and how can they help us? (See also picture.)When we are suffering, our fellow believers can be “a source of great comfort.” (Col. 4:11) Our brothers and sisters are truly a living expression of Jehovah’s love for us. Fellow believers can comfort us by listening empathetically, or they may support us with their presence. They may share a reassuring Bible verse or say a prayer with us. (Rom. 15:4) At times, a brother or a sister may remind us of Jehovah’s thinking and thus help us maintain our balance. Fellow Christians can also give us practical support, such as by providing a meal when we are in distress.
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What can we look forward to in the future, and what can we do now?We can confidently look to the future, knowing that Jehovah will soon heal us completely of all physical and emotional pain. (Rev. 21:3, 4) At that time, the hurtful things we have experienced will not “come up into the heart.” (Isa. 65:17) As we have seen, Jehovah ‘binds up our wounds’ even now. Take full advantage of Jehovah’s loving provisions to bring you comfort and relief. Never doubt for a moment that “he cares for you.”—1 Pet. 5:7.
Make a comment, very short sentence and very understandable use the JW bible
Make a comment, very short sentence and very understandable use the JW bible
We can look forward to a time when Jehovah will end all pain and suffering, so let’s trust in His care and seek comfort in His promises now.
What are some challenges that could prevent us from receiving encouragement, and how can we overcome them?Resist the urge to isolate yourself. Because of painful emotions, you may not feel like interacting with others. At times, your brothers and sisters may misunderstand you or fail to choose the right words. (Jas. 3:2) Do not let such challenges prevent you from receiving the encouragement you need. An elder named Gavin, who suffers from depression, says: “Keeping in touch with friends is often the last thing I feel like doing.” Nevertheless, Gavin does not give in to his feelings, and he benefits from his association with others. A sister named Amy says: “Because of my past experiences, I have difficulty trusting people. But I am learning to love and trust my brothers and sisters as Jehovah does. I know that this makes Jehovah happy, and it makes me happy too.”
Make a comment, very short sentence and very understandable use the JW bible
Make a comment, very short sentence and very understandable use the JW bible
Challenges like isolation and misunderstanding can hinder encouragement, but it's essential to reach out to others, as Jehovah values our connections with His people.
What may we need to do to receive support from others?To receive support from others, we may need to ask for it. Our brothers and sisters love us and want to help. (Prov. 17:17) But they may not know how we feel or what we need. (Prov. 14:10) If you are hurting emotionally, be willing to share your feelings with mature friends. Let them know what would help you. You might choose to confide in one or two elders with whom you feel at ease. Some sisters have found it comforting to speak with another mature sister
Make a comment, very short sentence and very understandable use the JW bible
Make a comment, very short sentence and very understandable use the JW bible
To receive support, we should communicate our needs, as Proverbs 17:17 reminds us that our loving brothers and sisters want to help us.