What do you say to someone struggling to make it?

In an April 2009 interview in True Love Magazine, Tyler Perry was asked the question, What would you say to someone who is struggling to make it? He referred to Joseph's response in dealing with hardship, "I would tell them the fascinating story of Joseph in the Bible - he always dreamt. Even when there was a famine in the land, he still dreamt and he did an amazing thing - he gave. And that's what I would say to people - give. Give, even when it doesn't make sense. It doesn't have to be money, but if you have something to share with people, do it. It will bring blessings in your life. When you have a dream that God has given you, the dream will start to believe for you. You will meet people who will believe in you, but whatever you do, don't stop. Keep moving."

Do you agree or disagree with Tyler Perry? What would you say to someone who is struggling to make it?

Here are a few replies from the Jesus Saves Ministries Social Network:

Reply by Therese Warrick on October 30, 2009 at 9:55pm

Rev. Price, I really like this discussion topic. It hits home for me because I have been that person who has had to struggle to make it, and sometimes I still struggle with certain things in my life, especially as a single parent. I read Tyler's answer and he is certainly on point. I deal with my struggles by praying, I pray believing God that He will see me through. I also deal with my struggles by getting in the Word and by seeking out my prayer partner, and asking believers to intercede on my behalf.

I would say to someone who is struggling to make it to keep on going, don't give up, just hold on to God's hand, don't let it go; just keep on praying, pray morning, noon and night, pray anywhere and everywhere, just pray, but pray believing that God will make a way. Speak life and affirm what it is that he/she is seeking, that is, financial blessing, job promotion, getting out of depression and disappointment, whatever it is, just speak life over the situation.

I am reminded of Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 "Two people are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. If one falls down, the other can help him up. But it is bad for the person who is alone and falls, because no one is there to help.

Reply by Rev. Angela Lee Price on November 4, 2009 at 9:12am

I am glad to see at least one of the prosperity preachers backing away from the distorted prosperity gospel to focus on the ministry of Jesus Christ thereby presenting a more balance message of hope. I believe telling the truth in love is the best thing one can do in the midst of struggle and suffering. The Bible tells us that speaking the truth is love helps us as Christians become mature, grow up in Jesus, and to not be tossed "to and fro" by every wind of teaching and schemes of deceitful men (Ephesians 4:14-20). The best thing we can do as a general rule is tell the truth and not try to water it down or distort it in any way. Some of the struggles we face we bring on ourselves. The Lord says, "My people perish for lack of knowledge."

Reply by Jazlyn on October 31, 2009 at 12:14am

I believe that we all were put here to tend to one another. Often times i will go out of my way to help a stranger and it feels good. I dont look for anything in return, I just do it.....

Reply by Rev. Angela Lee Price on November 4, 2009 at 9:19am

There is scripture for what you just said, "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms" 1Peter 4:10-11. When we use our spiritual gifts, we extend God's grace to one another. One of the spiritual gifts God gives to believers is the gift of giving.

Reply by Jazlyn on November 4, 2009 at 9:57pm
Angela, I will read 1Peter, thank you for the reference.


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