Don't Ever Say to a Hurting Person, "I Know Exactly How You're Feeling"

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit" (Psalm 34:18).

Only God fully knows the extent of our pain. Grief. Sorrow. Failure.

It's why we should never say to a hurting person, "I know how you feel."

Why? Because you don't. You have not been through exactly what this person has been through. You have not walked through every step of life in their shoes.

Yes, you may have experienced a similar situation, enabling you to practice empathy. However, it's impossible for one human being to experience the exact same feelings as another. But God's understanding knows no limits. He understands us fully.

Here's the best thing you can do for those who are hurting: Practice the ministry of presence. Simply sit beside them. Be there for them. Care for them. Love them.

And if you must say something, tell them of God's great love for them. And his promise to heal their hurts and bind their wounds (Psalm 147:3).

Sometimes sitting in silence is the best way to offer comfort. Let your physical presence be your strongest statement of support.

Your loving presence will be what the suffering person will never forget.