Words of Condolence

Words of condolence are a simple acknowledgement that can be incredibly meaningful to a suffering person. Gestures like holding a hand or giving a hug, can be as powerful as words of comfort for sympathy expression in a time of need.

The simple act of sending a card, or just sharing tears and memories together are gestures any of us can make.

We don’t have to take away the pain, and it’s a good thing, since we can’t do that anyway. Likewise, we can share our own grief, let others walk alongside, encouraging and supporting us. A listening ear or a shoulder to lean on works wonders when words of condolence are hard to find.

Bereavement Verses

When sending Christian sympathy cards, words of condolence must be chosen carefully. Faith can be tested in times of grief, and it’s important to be sensitive to emotions that can change rapidly. Even the most devout believers can struggle with feelings of doubt, fear and anger in times of tragedy.

Once again, we can find guidance in the Holy Bible to help us with appropriate bereavement verses that are comforting words of condolence.

Romans 12:15 admonishes us to “Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” In Corinthians 11:29 we are reminded to follow Jesus’ direction to, “Bear ye one another's burdens.” Interesting that both of these scriptures speak to actions rather than words.

Not-So-Helpful Comments or What Not to Say

• “All things work together for good for those who love God” can be heard as “ Get a grip, it is all going to work out fine.”



• “God will never give you more than you can handle” can comes across as “ You can handle this if you lean on God.”



• “Is there sin in your life?” can sound judgmental like “This is your fault. If you get right with God, you’ll be fine.”



• “God is in control” implies that “You shouldn’t be worried or sad, it is all in God’s plan”.



• “Have you prayed about it?” again can infer that it is “your fault, if you had been praying, this wouldn’t have happened.”



• “Just have faith.” can imply “Your fault, you didn’t have enough faith, you doubted”

Comforting Words of Condolence for Christians

• May God wrap you in His arms and comfort you during this time.



• May the love of those around you and the love of God, comfort you through the days ahead.



• May God make Himself very real to you and comfort you with his Grace.



• May the peace of the Lord be with you.



• May you know the peace of God that passes all understanding.

General Words of Condolence

• Sending you sincere and warm thoughts and prayers.



• Words cannot adequately express our love for you, we send our thoughts and prayers for your comfort and peace.



• Please know that we share in your sorrow and lift you up in prayer.



• Loving thoughts and warm hugs to you in your time of sorrow.



• May you find comfort in knowing how much you are loved.

Sympathy Messages