• I am so sorry to hear about the difficulties you are going through.  Will you please tell me more to help me understand?
  • What are the most common emotions that you've been experiencing through this?
  • Do you have friends or family nearby that you can talk to?  Have they been helpful?
  • Have you heard things from well-meaning friends in the midst of suffering that have been painful?  What were those things and why were they so painful to you?
  • Are there questions that have arisen in your heart in the midst of this experience that we can explore together?
  • Are there certain times of day, places, or circumstances where you find the hurt especially difficult?
  • It's often said that God will use the difficult times in life to bring about good things.  That may not be a comfort right now, but do you believe that might be true for you someday?
  • I know it's hard to discuss sometimes, but where do you see God in all of this?  Would you say He has met you in the midst of this or has He felt distant?  Or a little of both?
  • Practicing thankfulness may seem unnatural during this difficult time, but can you see yourself looking beyond your pain and thanking God by faith for His presence?
  • How can I best come alongside you in love and carry this burden with you?
  • In what areas do you need comfort and encouragement the most?
  • Learning to live again is a process.  Can you find a starting point?
  • Would you give me permission to be praying for you in the coming weeks/months?
  • Is there anything you need from me right now to help you get through another day?
  • What has God been teaching you through this tough experience?  About Himself, about you, about others, about life?
  • Are you able to fix your eyes on Jesus so that you do not “grow weary and lose heart?” (Hebrews 12:1-4)
  • Do you “cast all your cares” on Him?  Do you still believe He cares for you? (1 Peter 5:7)
  • Have you taken time to be honest before God about how you feel? Are you feeling any anger toward God?  Have you told Him that?
  • Do you believe that God has your best interests at heart?
  • How has this tough experience affected your relationship with the important people in your life?  Spouse, kids, friends, etc.
  • Have you examined what part you may have played in your current circumstances?
  • Have you forgiven others who may have hurt you, or have you nursed the hurt?
  • Have you made a list of all the things you can thank God for even now?
  • Have you considered the powerful testimony you are setting for those around you? (Acts 16:22-31)
  • Are you aware of how often God's word describes people in troubles, especially the Psalms and in the Book of Job?  Can we discuss that together?
  • Do you see your suffering in light of eternity? (2 Corinthians 4:18)
  • Have you talked to your pastor or local church leadership about your current sufferings and how to seek God in the midst of them?
  • Do you have a local church home that can help meet your physical and emotional needs?