Biblical Answer

Showing Kindness to Friends When They're Sad

When a friend is sad, it can be challenging to know how to respond in a way that is helpful and kind. However, ignoring their emotions or pretending that everything is okay can be detrimental to their well-being. Instead, it's essential to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. One way to show kindness is to simply be present with your friend, listening to them without judgment or trying to offer solutions. Sometimes, people who are struggling with depression or other emotional challenges may not be in the mood for "happy" interactions, but they still need our affection and support.

As the Bible reminds us, "A friend loves at all times" (Proverbs 17:17). This means that we should be willing to put in the effort to show kindness and love to our friends, even when it's not easy. One practical way to do this is by giving them physical affection, such as hugs. Research has shown that people need physical touch to feel loved and valued, and hugs can be a powerful way to show kindness and compassion. Even if your friend is resistant to hugs at first, it can be a way to break through their defenses and show them that you care.

In addition to being present and showing physical affection, it's also important to be patient and understanding. People who are struggling with emotional challenges may not be able to respond in the way that we want them to, and they may need time to process their emotions. As the Bible says, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34). This means that we should be willing to love and care for our friends, even when it's not easy, and to show them kindness and compassion in practical ways. By doing so, we can help them feel seen, heard, and valued, and we can build stronger, more meaningful relationships with them.