When a Friend Needs Courage to Do What Is Right
A friend knows there is a right step to take, but taking it feels difficult. You can listen to the concern and help them consider what faithfulness would look like today.
But encourage one another daily,
(Hebrews 3:13, NIV, excerpt)
Hebrews 3 recalls Israel’s wilderness unbelief and warns believers against hearts hardened by sin. It calls for daily encouragement as they hold firmly to Christ. This is encouragement with a clear direction: continued trust and obedience to the living God.
Offer support for the step that honors Christ
Read the relevant Scripture together and allow it to guide the conversation. Be careful to distinguish what God calls for from your own preferred solution.
Ask what makes the step difficult and what appropriate support would help. Your friend may need a conversation with a trusted leader, practical assistance, or someone to pray with them.
Speak with humility about your own need to keep following Jesus. Encouragement can include honest correction while leaving space for a person to ask questions and seek wise help.
Offer a follow-up you can keep. Pray together if welcome, and continue pointing toward Christ with patience. The shared life of faith includes helping one another respond to His truth in the decisions that shape ordinary days.
A prayer
Lord Jesus, give my friend courage to follow what is true and good. Help me encourage with humility and clarity. Keep our hearts responsive to Your Word, and guide the support needed for faithful action. Amen.
Read Hebrews 3:7-19 in the NIV.
Keep reading: Speaking Honestly With Someone You Love · A Prayer Before Making a Decision.
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Faithful encouragement helps a friend turn toward Jesus and the good before them.
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