Help for the Hurting

Bible Reading: Job 2:11

Abe watched his brother Moe go into his room and slam the door behind him.

Moe was in high school and lately had been acting super moody. Abe was confused by this, as his brother was usually so cheerful.

He decided to talk to his grandfather about it. “I don’t get it, Grandpa. Did I do something wrong? Moe has been avoiding me lately—or worse, yelling at me and calling me names!”

“Has he been acting differently around others as well, or just you?” Grandpa asked.

Abe shrugged. “I don’t know—I haven’t seen him talk to Mom or Dad much lately. And none of his friends have been over in a while. But Moe used to play video games with me almost every day, and now he mostly ignores me. I must have done something wrong to upset him, but I have no idea what I did!” He looked at his grandpa. “You’re always watching those cop shows. Can you tell me what I did wrong?”

Grandpa smiled. “Abe, I think I know why Moe is acting like this, and it’s not your fault. Ever since I learned that he and Sara had broken up, I’ve noticed he hasn’t been his usual self—though I didn’t know it had gotten this bad. I think he might be feeling depressed, and that can look like many things—like anger, sadness, or laziness. But it isn’t your fault.”

Abe perked up at this. “You mean, I didn’t do anything wrong?”

“No, you didn’t. Broken relationships are painful, and Moe needs time to grieve. I think the best thing we can do for him is give him space and let him know we love him. By showing him we care about him, even when he ignores us or gets angry, we’ll be reminding him that Jesus loves him and will help him through this. And since it sounds like Moe might be dealing with feelings of depression, we should also talk to your parents about getting him help.”

“And we should pray for him too, right?” Abe asked.

Grandpa nodded. “Yes. Let’s do that now.” • Alex Childs

How About You?

Do you know someone like Moe? Or maybe you’re feeling down yourself. Painful circumstances can make people feel sad or angry for a long time.* But Jesus came to give us life, and we can remember the joy of His love and know He’s with us even when we don’t feel happy. If a friend needs encouragement, share Jesus’ love with them by letting them know you care.

* If you or someone you know is dealing with intense feelings of anger or sadness, tell a trusted adult so they can help.

Today’s Key Verse:
Romans 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Show love to those who are hurting