The Quiet Christ
"...but there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother."
Proverbs
18:24
(sorry for using your verse again James)
This message may not be of use to everyone of you guys; maybe it is. I have no idea. I do know that the following thought process has helped realize many times what kind of Christian I'm supposed to try and be. That Christian is a Christ-like Christian. I'm one of the many Christians in the world today who are guilty of trying to be a "hero." I know many people who are always willing to help another brother in need (which, don't get me wrong, is a good thing), but do we as Christians ever...want to help to much?
Do we ever try to fix problems of other's all by ourselves? Can we ever "talk to much" when trying to help a friend in despair? Do we ever try to be "too flashy?" The Apostle Paul tells us to stay away "heroism Christianity" in 1st Thessalonians when he says "This should be your ambition: to live a quite life, minding your own business..." (1st Thess. 4:11). Instead of ALWAYS trying to help friends in need with words, sometimes it is just better to show the most important Christian trait: love.
My favorite song has the following lyrics..."I don't know what to do to ease your mind. I don't have the perfect word to make it fine. I'm not so qualified for sympathy. Still I am not without love..." ("If you'll let me love"-Smalltown Poets). Sometimes it is just better to sit and hug and cry with your friend in need instead of filling their ears with words they probably have no desire to listen to.
Remember, Jesus Christ is the only one who can provide true peace in our lives. Your friends who always seem to have incredible advice and soothing words can never compare to Him. Even when it seems no one can help, not even Jesus Christ himself, He still can give peace.
The great writer, Max Lucado, expresses the previous thought very well..."I keep thinking of all the despairing people who cast despairing eyes towards the dark heavens and cry "Why?" And I imagine Him. I imagine Him listening. I picture his eyes misting and a pierced hand brushing away a tear. And although he may offer no answer, although he may solve no dilemma, although the question may freeze painfully in midair, he who also once was alone on the cross, understands."
Inside-Out-Youth Ministries
His humble servant,
Jack Williams