Belly Rub

Belly Rub

If you have pets, the four legged furry kind, you’ve probably noticed that the one thing that they love to do most is to roll over onto their backs and have their bellies rubbed. Even if they love playing fetch, sleeping, or rubbing against your leg as they walk by, it’s very hard for them to resist a good belly rub now and then. Many will even forgo the much loved “treat” to have someone take their hand and slowly caress their abdomen (If you rub too quickly, their leg starts to do a jig).

Many people are the same. I don’t mean that they want a literal belly rub, but most folks like to be stroked every now and then. A “thank you” or “good job,” said at the right time, can give so much pleasure, especially when it isn’t being sought. “Thinking of your” and “praying for you” also let people know that you are thinking of them, letting them know that someone really cares. “May I help?” can go very far in making someone feel better. Not saying anything, but just being there when needed is one of the most subtle, yet powerful ways to comfort someone.

If you look around you, especially at your local church congregation, you will see brothers and sisters who could probably use a “belly rub” every now and then. Most of the people you see are very involved, in one way or another in Christ's work. Just think of the pleasure or sense of fulfillment that you could give with just a few words or a card sent in earnest, or even volunteering to help in one of our many ministries if needed. Your words or your presence might be the thing that makes a difference for someone.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”