What to say when a friend opens up

1. I’m listening for as long as you want to talk.
2. How does/did it feel telling me?
3. I’m so glad you shared this.  That can’t have been easy and it means a lot that you trust me.
4. Can you explain a little more about X?  I want to make sure I understand what you’re saying.
5. This doesn’t change how much I care about you and our friendship.
6. This doesn’t change how much God loves you and is committed to you.
7. I don’t have quick or easy answers, but I’m committed to supporting you as best I can; I’d love to hear how I can do this if you have ideas.
8. Things change. I can’t promise they’ll immediately get better but if you look back at your life you’ll see — problems shift, people shift, we shift, prayers are answered.
9. There is a way through. For a Christian the worst thing is never the last thing. We have hope.
10. I don’t know much about X, can you tell me about it?
11. I don’t know about X, but I will find out more.
12. I’m sorry you’ve been dealing with this.
13. What might God be doing in you through this?
14. Even if you don’t have hope for your future right now, I do.
15. None of us have got it together. That’s where the gospel begins!
16. There is hope and help. That’s where the gospel leads!
17. Does anyone else know? What other support are you getting?
18. I’d be happy to talk about this again. How would you feel if X was there?
19. Unless I feel you’re in danger, I won’t share this information without your consent.
20. Would you like me to pray for us?

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