Building One Another  

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. I Thessalonians 5:11

Be a Rope Holder!

Dear Friend

Something Walt Ungerer, a pastor and friend, said to me many years ago came to mind while I was reading the story of the conversion of Saul.

After Saul’s dramatic encounter with Jesus, he began to preach about Jesus and a plot arose to kill him, “but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket.” Acts 9:25*

Walt asked the question, “Who are your rope holders?” Who, in your moment of crisis, are the people who will stand with you, who hold on to the ropes that carry you in some situation, who trust our Lord to guide and to sustain you?

Rope holders are among the most precious people in our lives. They may be friends, relatives, associates, neighbors or people we know in the church we attend. Whoever they are, their heart is to support your heart and your heart is to support theirs.

If you become aware of a person you know facing some rough situation, will you be his or her rope holder? Jesus said to his followers, “You are those who have stood by me in my trials.” Luke 22:28 The Apostle Paul said, “But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength.” 2 Timothy 4:17.

Be a rope holder, standing by in the time of trial and offering strength! Consider who your rope holders people are and, if possible, thank them for standing with you!

Joy to you - Stan

© Copyright 2022 E. Stanley Ott

Scripture from the ESV

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1. Who are the people who have held you up in moments of crisis or difficulty?
2. Describe one such situation and how the person, "held your rope?"
3. Name a few people in your world who could use a rope holder - and ways you will follow through with them.

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