Pr. 25:20: “Like one who takes away a garment in cold weather, and like vinegar on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.”
This is an interesting verse. Of course we want to cheer up those around us who have a heavy heart, but this verse is speaking more about not showing a caring attitude toward those around us who are hurting.
When we were camping a few weeks ago, there was one night when I was so cold that I couldn’t sleep. At some point, my husband became aware of how cold I was and he gave me his toboggan. Normally, I would have tried to refuse, worrying that he might need it; however, that night I was so cold I was almost in pain and I certainly wasn’t sleeping at all. I accepted the toboggan with only an intense thank you.
Him giving me that garment when I needed it most was like such a relief, and was the start of a more restful and pleasant night.
Most of us care. I have no doubt that most of us care enough to try to offer help and encouragement to someone who is hurting or in need. Sometimes, however, we can be moving so fast or be so consumed in our own affairs that we maybe don’t notice their pain. When we’re singing our songs of cheer, it’s good to take notice if those around us aren’t singing along. If we recognize a long face in the presence of our cheer, we may need to stop and find out if there is some encouragement needed.
We don’t want people to think we don’t care. Of course we don’t want them to hurt. It’s certainly ok for sing songs of cheer; however, upon noticing a heavy heart around us, we need to be quick to show concern and to offer a warm garment of encouragement. It may just be the start of a more restful and pleasant pilgrimage.
Carrying an extra garment,
jamie
considering the word 