Serving Those Who Are In CrisisSample

“The High Value of Encouraging Words” Have you had the opportunity to encourage someone who is in crisis? Have you noticed from that experience or from other incidents that words matter? That words can be powerful tools for encouragement? A number of Bible stories show us how to use words that encourage those who are in crisis. In just one chapter from 1 Samuel, Jonathan (Saul’s son) encouraged David in a number of ways while Saul was attempting to kill David. Jonathan’s reassuring words included: “you shall not die”; “whatever you say I will do for you”; “if evil has been decided by my father, would I not tell you?”; “the Lord is between you and me forever”; and “go in safety.” A verse in another chapter reports that Jonathan “encouraged David in God.” It’s worth noting that Jonathan was able to support David while he (Jonathan) was in crisis – his father threatened to kill him! Can you find other words of encouragement from Jonathan to David in 1 Samuel Chapter 20, especially in verses 12-17? And how did Jonathan’s words and actions, as reported in Chapter 20, likely affect David?