The Value of Support

Support can be defined as bearing the weight of, providing aid or strength, defending, or providing a foundation. Those definitions would probably describe some of the nurturing relationships that exist with various people in your life. There aren't too many things that are more valuable than having a great support system. Christ reminds us in John 15:12-13 to love each other as He loved us. "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."

Here are a few examples of support:

• You've been laid off your job and now you depend on others for financial support.
• Your neighbor needs her grass cut and you offer to help her out for free.
• You've started a new business and now a mentor provides you with moral support.
• The nursing home down the street needs volunteers and you gladly sign up.
• Death creeps into your family and you're immediately surrounded with love & unconditional support.
• Your place of worship & its leaders help you to grow spiritually and in return you begin to serve with different ministries to provide several levels of support.
• Being a parent is much easier with the support of a spouse, grandparents, etc.
• It's your freshmen year in college and you are adopted by a junior studying the same major and they offer to show you the ropes.
• You've taken sick and you are trusting a team of doctors and nurse to provide you with all the care and support that you need.
• You join a local cause to help save a country destroyed by a recent tragedy.
  

Willingness to provide some level of support to others should be a part of your DNA. If you're normally the one on the receiving end, start thinking of ways that you can sow into others. It doesn't have to be anything major you can actually start off taking tiny steps. Before long you will be so caught up in helping and loving on others that it won't seem like a chore but something that you adore.

On the other end of the spectrum is being open to receive support. If you've experienced a hardship in life or entered a phase in life where you seem to be faced with a plethora of unanswered questions, don't be too ashamed to reach out to others for help. God gives some people the gift of giving and they are fulfilling their purpose in life when they are allowed the privilege to bless you. Of course, someone providing support shouldn't be abused or confused but honored, respected and appreciated. When you've experienced someone who will sow into you with no strings attached, it will ignite a fire in you to keep the circle of love and support going.

Being supportive is contagious! It works both ways and adds great value to everyone's life.