God makes us stronger when we lift others Up
How much of our lives and thoughts revolve around our own worries, disappointments, or perceived problems? If we're honest, much of our emotional energy is spent looking inward. This subtle self-absorption is one of the many ways our selfish nature quietly takes hold.
Yet something remarkable happens when we turn our attention away from ourselves and toward someone else.
When we serve others, encourage the discouraged, comfort the hurting, or simply listen to someone in need, our own burdens begin to lose their weight. God has a beautiful way of strengthening us while we are strengthening someone else. In lifting others up, He lifts us up as well.
I discovered this truth in my own recovery through Alcoholics Anonymous. Some of the greatest healing I've ever experienced didn't come while focusing on myself—it came while serving others. There is something extraordinary that happens when a newcomer asks, "Will you sponsor me?" Suddenly, a space is created in my heart for someone else. Where there once seemed to be room only for my own fears, resentments, and troubles, God makes room for love.
I've heard many people in recovery say, “When you think life has gotten to busy, you get another sponsee”.
Our first thought may be, How can I possibly fit one more thing into my life?
But God whispers something different.
"Say yes. I'll give you more. I'll make you stronger so you can serve this person."
And He always does.
I've never met anyone who sincerely accepted that responsibility and found themselves with less. Instead, they found greater purpose, deeper faith, and a stronger relationship with God. The strength wasn't theirs—it was God's, given in the very act of serving someone else.
It's amazing that even when we convince ourselves we have no time or nothing left to give, we somehow find the strength when someone genuinely needs us. Perhaps that's because service isn't a drain on the soul—it is nourishment for it.
The path to peace is often found in purpose, and purpose is so often found in serving others. No matter what we're facing today, there is someone carrying a heavier burden, someone longing for hope, kindness, or simply to know they are not alone.
The kingdom of God is upside down from the world. Greatness is found in humility. Strength is found in service. Blessing is found in giving.
Today, look for the person who needs God—or simply needs you—the most. You may discover that while you were helping them, God was quietly healing and strengthening you.
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me."
— Matthew 25:35–36 (NIV)
“Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?... When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?”
— Matthew 25:37–39 (NIV)
"The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'"
— Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
