Ever been in awkward situations where we would like to say something to someone but just don't know what to say. A death in a family, and you would like to offer condolences but you just don't know what to say.  You find a person you know has developed an incurable illness...and you don't know what to say.  Maybe it's a suicide, a divorce, or a parent with a "problem child" - a wayward brother or sister in Christ, struggling with overwhelming circumstances and sin...and you don't know what to say.

Usually, because we don't know what to say, we fall back on statements like: "if there is anything you need, just give me a call."; or "if I can be of some help, just let me know."  Most can't tell you what they need, or  how to help when they themselves don't know. But they are searching for something to grasp to help ease their pain.  This is where we should show the love of God in our life.  2 Cor. 1:3-5

Something to help in picking them up could be telling them you don't know what to say (honesty- it's the best policy), but "I promise that you will be first in my prayers, and will continue to keep you there."  It's ok that you don't know how to fix the problem - "I know that you are hurting, and I don't have to know what the problem is...but I want you to know that I really care and really love you."

Remember, "actions speak louder than words".  A hug or a hand on the shoulder covers a dictionary full of words if it is sincere.  Without sincerity, words or actions are as empty as a bucket with no bottom.

Just don't let the opportunity to reach out to someone pass because you "don't know what to say". They need Christ's love in you.