How is it with your soul?

 

John Wesley was the founder of the Methodist Church within the Church of England. Originally ordained an Anglican priest in 1728, he led a society called the Holy Club, which was unsuccessful, and he returned to London two years later. He joined a religious society called the Moravian Christians, and on the 24th of May 1738, he experienced what was called his evangelical conversion. Subsequently, he left the Moravians and developed his own ministry...the Methodist Church. 

So, why this background? Partly so that you would know who I was talking about, and partly because I thought it was interesting. You can find this and much more here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wesley

Recently, I came across a devotional that mentioned John Wesley and I found it very interesting, so I investigated further. The original wording, "How does your soul prosper," has since become, "How is it with your soul," and the devotional brought up an interesting thought. How often do we ask others, "How are you," and expect a smile and "fine," or "I could be better"? Most folks withhold how they really are because they figure their sorrows, worries or other issues are really not of interest to the one who asked, purely out of courtesy. 

Still, I wonder how would it be if we actually gave a person that opportunity, that outlet to tell someone how it is with them? Most folks will avoid that like the plague...they've done their duty, they were polite and friendly, maybe smiled as they asked, then beat feet to get away before they get a long, drawn-out story. Have we, as a society become so selfish, so self-centered, that we won't take the time to minister to those who need someone to talk to? To share their burdens, their concerns? I'm not advocating gossip, no, far from it. What I am saying, is, take the time. Be there for someone who needs it. No need to give a fix-it response if it isn't asked for. No need for comparison conversation. Just be the shoulder that is needed, and pray for that person, either in person, right then and there, or in your daily prayer time. Ask if you can share the situation with others, even anonymously, so they, too can pray...don't just arbitrarily share. If they say no, then honor their request, but you still should pray for the situation. 

I don't know about you, but the question, "How are you" just doesn't seem to fit the situation anymore. Too many things going on, too many people keeping things to themselves, worried others might think them to be needy or whiney. No, "How is it with your soul" sounds like the question that needs to be asked, then stick around and listen, and pray. Be there for those who need to tell someone how it is with their soul.

So, how is it with your soul today?