Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #19 — Social Outreach

Picture: Counsel #19 — Social Outreach CR 50.1

As a young person who follows Jesus, you can use your social interactions to bring dignity, encouragement, and hope to people who feel invisible or forgotten. For those you’re close to, call or text them if they’re going through a rough time. Let them know you’re praying for them, and that God still cares. CR 50.2

If you’re on the job, invite the quiet coworker to join your group at lunch. For people you don’t know, you can still use Instagram or Facebook to raise awareness for causes that support the poor, fight injustice, or care for the vulnerable. Instead of ignoring someone who looks different or seems distant, start a conversation, learn their story, and treat them with respect.^[50] CR 50.3

In terms of hands-on serving the community, you can visit a local shelter with friends, serve food, help pack hygiene kits, or start a clothing drive in your school or youth group. Even offering tutoring or rides to someone who can’t afford things will make a difference. Jesus’s entire earthly ministry was reaching those that needed the most help, and you can do the same. CR 50.4

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40 NIV CR 50.5

“His servants in like manner must go forth to sow.” Ellen White in Lift Him Up, p. 69 CR 50.6

Reflect: Have you ever used social media for spiritual outreach? CR 50.7