Help Others to Endure Difficult Times - HELP OTHERS DURING A DISEASE OUTBREAK -Conclusion

 Desi explains, "Because I already knew the elders as friends, It was easy for me to tell them how I felt and what my concerns were."  The lesson for elders? Shepherd those under your care before there is a crisis.  Be a friend to them. If there is a disease outbreak that prevents you from making personal visits, reach out in other ways.  "Sometimes several different elders called or sent me messages on the same day," says Desi.  " The scriptures they shared touched me, even though I knew those verses well." 

One way that you can learn what your brothers and sisters need is by drawing them out with tactful questions.  (Proverbs 20:5) Do they have enough food, medicine, and other supplies? Are they at risk of losing their job or even their home? Do they need assistance with applying for government aid?  Desi received material help from fellow believers.  But it was the emotional and spiritual support from the elders that especially helped her to get through her trials.  She says:  "The elders prayed with  me. Even though I can't remember exactly what they said, I remember how I felt. It was Jehovah's way of saying, "You are not alone.'" - ISAIAH 41:10, 13. 

What others can do.  We rightly expect the elders to take the lead.  But Jehovah invites all of us to encourage and help others.  (Galatians 6:10)   Even a small expression of our love can have a powerful effect on someone who is ill.  A child could a card or a drawing to encourage a  brother.   A young adult might be able to run an errand or shop for a sister. What about preparing  a meal that can safely be left  at the home of someone who is ill?  Of course, when a disease is widespread, everyone in the congregation needs encouragement.  Perhaps we can stay a little longer after meetings to visit with the brothers and sisters, whether in person or videoconferencing. And the elders need encouragement too.  Some Witnesses have a thank-you note to the elders, who are often busier than ever during a disease outbreak.  How good it is when we do our part to "keep encouraging one another and building one another  up"! - 1THESSALONIANS 5:11.

Next time: Help Others Endure Difficult Times - HELP OTHERS IN THE FACE OF DISASTER

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