![]() The Scriptures make it clear that God heeds the cries of the oppressed and that on the Day of Judgment all evildoers will be dealt with according to their deeds (Rev. I am convinced that the idea of universal salvation fails to capture some important elements in the Bible’s teachings about the requirements of divine justice. ![]() I do worry, though, about their wishing that it were not so clear. I have often heard the opposite from evangelical friends: “I would like to be a universalist, but I really see no biblical basis for the view that everyone will be saved in the end.” It is reassuring that those who express this sentiment usually acknowledge that the Bible is clear on the subject. Having spent my career in evangelical institutions, I have signed many theological statements affirming the realities of heaven and hell, and I have always done so in good faith.īut here is something that would surprise many of my fellow evangelicals: I don’t even want to be a universalist. There is nothing surprising about my saying that. While, in most circumstances, it's a good idea to give a friend time to come around to the idea of seeking help, if you think someone is in danger or is at risk as a result of what’s going on, it’s important that you seek help immediately.I am not a universalist. It may also mean that if and when they’re ready to seek help, they might not feel comfortable about coming to you for support. If you avoid your friend, it’s likely to make them feel isolated. If you try to pressure or force a friend to get help, it may come from a good place, but it can actually have the opposite effect to what you intend and could turn your friend off seeking help altogether. Set some limits on things you’re willing and not willing to do – and stick to them! (For example, work out if you're comfortable about accompanying them to their appointments.)ĭon’t force the issue or put pressure on them You’re not going to be able to be there for someone at every moment of every day. Talk through how you’re feeling with someone you trust. It can be really frustrating, and make you feel helpless, if a friend won’t let you help them. That way, if they decide they’re ready to seek help, you’ll be able to give them some direction about who to go and see. Give suggestions, if and when your friend reaches out to you and asks for your advice.ĭo a bit of research into what help is available in your area that could be useful for your friend. Listen to your friend when they need to talk. But you can still be there for your friend you might just need to take a different approach to the way you’re supporting them.Ĭontinue to be supportive. If your offers of advice and support are being rejected, you may feel like you’re powerless to do anything. ![]() How to be there for someone who isn’t ready to seek help Coming around to the realisation that they're going through a rough patch can be scary and difficult, so it's understandable that they may take some time before deciding to seek help. If things are really getting to someone you care about, it’s important to understand that making a decision to seek help can be a tough thing for them to do.
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