How much do we actually want to help someone? It might be (but not always) found in how we word our willingness to help. If we tell someone—“Let me know if I can help”—then they may never ask, as it’s on them to initiate the request. If we ask someone—“Do you need any help?” or “Is there something I can do to help?”—that is an easy way for them to give a one-word answer, “No.” If we ask someone—“What can I do to help?”—it is rather open and vague, but again, an easy way for them to say, “Nothing. I’m good.”
Don’t misunderstand. Offering to help someone is always a good idea. And there is nothing wrong with any of the above questions. But, what if our offers to help were a little more proactive. For example, go and visit in their home. Then, just start washing dishes (or whatever). “I’m going to wash your dishes and wipe your counters. I’ve got time for two more projects. What would be most helpful today?” Sometimes the “love” by which we “serve one another” (Gal. 5:13; 6:10) needs to take the initiative.
