Do you ever clam up when you try to offer emotional comfort? And no matter what you say, it doesn’t seem to help? I can relate.

For example, waiting in line at a funeral is mentally agonizing. My sincere intention is to show respect to the deceased and their family while I overthink what to say. In less tense situations, I still fumble, and ponder my awkward silence or rough feedback for days. Good news! When we don’t know what to say, God does.

During my quiet time with God, He revealed the reason for our struggles and actions to take.

He helped me realize my intentions are sincere, even though my attempts at showing compassion are off. Fear of my influence blocks my ability to sense God’s desire for the hurting. The best gesture might be silent listening, a gentle hug, or a kind word. Only God truly knows what the heart desires. But if I’m consumed by worry, I’m focused on myself, not God.

Is God a Priority? Take a FREE quiz

When We Don’t Know What to Say…God Does. 5 Steps to help us get out of God’s way.

1. God first. A reminder that God must be the #1 priority in all things. With Him at the forefront, our actions will reflect His ways over ours.
2. Prayer. Before, during and after difficult situations with others, pray to God for guidance. Ask Him to remove my insecurities and allow the Holy Spirit to lead.
3. Biblical Immersion. I find myself the weakest when I’ve neglected to study the Bible daily. Yes, we all fall short. God expects us to go deep and study the Gospels. In order to be more Christ-like, we must understand God’s Word to follow Jesus.
4. Show compassion. The hallmark attribute of Jesus. When in doubt, lean on compassion. God has the answer, not us. Sometimes the most powerful display of compassion is sharing tears in silence.
5. Pray with others. As believers, we’re given opportunities to share the Lord’s message. Especially in turbulent times, praying aloud with the suffering can be the most powerful display of God’s mercy and His message. Building confidence with public prayer comes from deepening our knowledge of God and practice, practice, practice. Did I say practice?

Through God, we are empowered to tackle the challenges of any situation with more love and compassion by following His ways above our fears.

Remember, when we don’t know what to say…God does.

Battling emotional pain? Check out FACING THE MIND TRAP – a Christian novel by Teresa Devine

God bless your journey!