Kevin DeYoung has a very helpful post this morning considering ways to minister to the sick and dying. His counsel is excellent for both pastor and layman. I found his eighth point particularly important:
Don’t interrupt. Ask follow up questions. Be slow to correct their thinking. If they need to be challenged, do it after they know you care and take their feelings seriously. Nothing is more discouraging than a friend or pastor who quickly corrects all fears and immediately shines up all your struggles.
For the rest of DeYoung’s counsel, go here. And by God’s grace we will minster well to the sick and dying among us.
Permanent Things 