There are seasons when you're one of the people carrying the stretcher, and there are seasons when you're the one on it. Both are a part of following Jesus.

So, what do we do when we're the one on the stretcher? It's something many of us don't like to think about, but needing help is an inevitable part of life. As Christians, it can often feel more natural to turn toward others and offer help than to humble ourselves and receive it.

That's what Steve, Rich, and Sarah are talking about this week. Steve candidly shares how difficult this can be for him, especially as a pastor. He reflects on what it was like to navigate ministry and grief after losing his first wife, Pam, in the late '80s. His initial instinct was to carry the burden himself, but the Lord softened his heart and helped him recognize the support he needed from the body of believers around him.

Suffering has a way of bringing humility into our lives in a beautiful way. Even Jesus allowed others to help Him as He made His way to the cross.

Through personal stories and practical examples, this conversation explores what it looks like to humbly receive help when we're walking through difficult seasons. It's a reminder that needing others isn't a failure, it's part of the Christian life. And there is so much beauty in being part of a community that carries one another.

Save this episode for the next time you find yourself on the stretcher, and share it with someone who may need to be reminded that they don't have to carry it alone.

Check out Episodes 63 & 64 of Resident Strangers on suffering (audio only)

Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥

Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list

Questions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com

If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.