Comforting Words

We all struggle with what to say at a funeral, or to a friend who has had something bad happen to them.  Here are some words to say that truly comfort, and some to avoid:

Words of Comfort

This is hard.  (Hug)

I’m always going to remember their (smile, laugh, that time when)

I’ll never understand why this happened. 

You aren’t alone

When X happened to me I felt (shocked, angry, frustrated, depressed)  I’d like to call you in the next couple weeks for coffee and I’d be happy to listen to your experience.

I would love to help in some way – I could do X or Y, which would help?

Put on your calendar to call the person in the next weeks & months ahead.  Don't wait for them to call you!

Feelings aren’t right or wrong, they just are.

We all grieve differently.   You are normal.

What NOT to  Say

I know how you feel.

This is just like when X happened to me.

Don’t cry.  Be Strong.  Don’t say that.  Don’t feel that way.

Everything happens for a reason.

This must be a part of God’s plan.

God never gives us more than we can handle.

This is for the best.

S/He is in a better place.

Let me know if you need anything.

God needed another angel in heaven.

These might sound spiritual but they do more harm than good -- avoid them at all costs!!!

After preaching this on Sunday, a friend came up to me and responded that he had just been at a funeral for someone who had been a great runner. He was trying to think of something to say to the widow
He first thought of saying:  "Jesus must have needed a great runner on the track team"
But
then he thought better and reworded it to:  "If there is a track team in heaven, John is sure on it"
much better.
A simple rephrase can make a big difference in theology and comfort.