Sit With Them First

Your friend is sitting across from you, turning a coffee cup between their hands. They’ve barely slept, and halfway through telling you what happened, their voice breaks. You want to help, so your mind starts gathering answers. Maybe they should make a call, try something different, or look at the bright side. But before you offer anything, you notice they’re struggling just to finish the sentence.

Paul’s instruction in Romans 12:15 asks us to enter another person’s joy or sorrow with them. That takes patience, especially when their pain makes us uncomfortable. Jesus showed this tenderness when He wept beside those grieving Lazarus, even knowing what He was about to do. There is room for wise advice and practical help, but love also makes room for tears. When someone opens their heart today, listen long enough to understand what they’re carrying. Let them finish. Ask what would help. You can trust God with what you cannot resolve while offering the care you can give.