If you do not know what to say to those in heartache, just be there with them. Open up your hearts and your homes, make yourself available to them, and help them to grieve. Remind them of the light of Christ when they are in the darkness of sorrows.

We have all dealt with a loss or heartbreak of some kind in our lives. Tragedies can strike out of nowhere, and when they do they hit hard. Some people have felt pain that is so extremely potent and horrific that it may seem that they are left alone, drowning in a sea with no hope in sight. One of the beautiful things about belonging to a church and Christian community is the familial care that is unlike any other. It not only gives us an opportunity to receive care, but also to come alongside others and be there when they need us most, which is especially valuable when they have no other family members to whom they can turn.

As Christians we are called in Romans 12:15 to rejoice with those who rejoice, and we are also called to weep with those who weep. This verse, in fact, is located in a section of the Bible that is often labeled “The Marks of a True Christian.” So what can we do to fulfill this command? What are ways that we can be a comfort to others? What are things we can do to find peace and comfort?

1. Attend church and be present.

Making ourselves available to the preaching of the Word and communion of the saints is one of the most important things we can do, whether that be seeking comfort or being there to give it. Surrounding ourselves with our brothers and sisters in Christ and opening ourselves up to what the Scriptures have to say through the preaching and teaching of Christ’s “under-shepherds” will sometimes give us timely answers to our sorrows or what to say to those grieving. It will also allow us to get out of our own heads and sorrows and share them with those who genuinely care for us as we share in communion and fellowship. Do not face your griefs alone. Find comfort in God, his Word, and his people. Enter into the proverbial arms of Christ by entering into his church.

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