It appears that one of the effects of the current pandemic is the number of people re-evaluating their lives and making significant changes. Retirement, school decisions, career changes, moving, downsizing, and reconnecting are just a few of the transitions I have noticed in many of the people I know. In addition to these purposeful shifts, are the changes people face every day – many of those not by choice: empty nest, divorce, loss of loved one, job loss, financial difficulty, etc.
It is difficult to know how to help in many of these situations, but we can be intentional about noticing those in the midst of transition and strive to do what can to offer them encouragement.
8 ways to encourage those in the midst of change:
1.Be a friend.
Reach out to check on those you know that are in a time of transition in their lives. Ask how they are doing and let them know you are thinking of them. Each of the tips below are practical ways to live this out, but being consistent through the time of changing will speak to the sincerity of your friendship.
2. Extend an invitation.
Times of change or transition can seem the most lonely. Invite someone that is dealing with change to go out for coffee or a meal. Ask them to join you in church or Bible study. Include them in your family’s plans or bring them into your circle of friends. Let them know that they are not alone.
3. Listen (without offering advice).
Call and ask how they are doing and then listen. Sit with them and offer your presence and nonjudgemental ear. Be a sounding board as they work through their options, their ideas, and their grief.
4. Offer a helping hand.
Fix a meal, clean their house, help fold laundry, pick up groceries, run errands, mow the grass, weed the flower bed, take out the trash, babysit, make a list, go to the post office, make phone calls, help pack, drive to the doctor’s appointment, feed the dog – whatever the needs, offer to help – or when appropriate just do it.
5. Speak or write words of encouragement.
Send a note, make the call, say the words. Here are few good ones:
“I hear you.”
“I love you.”
“I am thinking about you.”
“I am praying for you.”
“You are important to me.”
“You are on my mind.”
“Your friendship is a blessing to me.”
“I want to be an encouragement to you.”
“How can I specifically pray for you?”
6. Share helpful resources.
Times of transition can be lonely, confusing, and overwhelming. If you have been through a similar transition or change, you likely have helpful resources you can share. If not, connect them with another friend who shares the experience.
7. Pray.
Pray for God’s direction, strength, and help in the midst of the transition. Ask how you can specifically pray. Send a note to remind them you are praying. Follow up to know how you can continue to pray. Pray with them whenever possible.
8. Remember the blessings.
It can be very hard to see the blessings in the midst of transition. Help them to recall the blessings by asking specifically and pointing out the good that is happening. Consider writing the blessing down for them so they can look back over those later or suggesting that they journal the blessings they see.