Some of the hardest work ever is what might be called personal growth. Taming a sharp temper, losing weight, learning better ways to manage relationships, or even just changing bad attitudes can be a long, slow process that requires persistence and determination. Of course, making the choice to start is on each of us, as is doing the actual work. Experts in personal training and cognitive behavioral therapy know that the odds of success increase significantly when an individual has support. Even newer exercise equipment makers like Peloton build in virtual trainers and workout buddies so you never have to sweat alone.
When I look at Scripture verses that comfort and encourage, most of them are addressed to people struggling to live faithfully. They want to follow God’s ways, but there’s so much adversity. Passages like Isaiah 43:2-3 and Jeremiah 29:11 speak to people who are wondering if it’s worth it, if they should stick with having no other gods and not coveting, or just give in like so many others. In those moments, the word of the Lord reminds them they aren’t abandoned; stay on the right track, hang in there!
In addition to the help God gives through Scripture, we’re supposed to help each other. As a young parent with a child who was acting up in class, I remember feeling so alone and confused and, well, flawed, like it was my fault. In a Bible study of mostly old ladies, I mentioned a tough parent/teacher conference. One quiet, tiny octogenarian spoke up and said, “Carl, the biggest problem isn’t your daughter or you. The world just needs more grace.” The compassion and encouragement that group showed me was better than any Greek or Hebrew exegesis I could have unloaded.
Paul tells us, “Warn the unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be patient toward all people. See that none render evil for evil to anyone, but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves and to all people.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14-15). That’s how we grow as individuals, as a team, and as a world. Keep up the good work!
Dr. Carl Grosse is an ordained pastor and the author of Faith Along the Way, a weekly reflection for KnoxTNToday that encourages readers to discover God’s presence in everyday life and share His love with others.
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