Today’s guest post comes to us from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

We’re all human. So it makes sense that our hearts often hurt for people impacted by tragedies here and abroad—tragedies that can leave us feeling helpless.

What can we do in response to the violence and destruction around us?

1. Pray Deeply

“Prayer is the Christian’s greatest weapon.” —Billy Graham

As believers, we look up. We seek out God through prayer—and trust in His sovereignty.

Scripture tells us prayer is one of our most powerful resources. But how can you pray more deeply?

When you don’t have any words, or when you feel like you’re beating down God’s door with the same prayer day after day, ask God’s Holy Spirit to help you. The Bible tells us the Holy Spirit is an intercessor for us and cries out to God on our behalf.

2. Immerse Yourself in God’s Word

When you feel as if your very soul hurts from news reports of another shooting, evil act or disaster, how do you find comfort?

There is a place of refuge. The Bible tells us, “Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him” (Proverbs 30:5).

3. Guard Your Heart

“Grief can kill a person emotionally and physically. If not counteracted with God’s strength and power, our personal weakness may debilitate us.” —Billy Graham

Do our minds ever erase graphic images such as horrifying footage from tragic events?

You may have experienced what’s called secondary trauma from viewing video clips and photos on TV and social media. It’s important to recognize how these lasting impressions can affect you, as they can be physically, emotionally and spiritually damaging.

Click here to read the full article and to read more ways to respond in troubled times.

Your partner in ministry,

Nelson

P.S. Pastors are not immune from crisis and often find it challenging to manage personal crisis while leading the church. My friend and fellow teaching pastor Kerrick Thomas knows this all too well. In his new resource, The Pastor in Personal Crisis, you’ll hear his story and discover some practical steps on how to overcome the inevitable trials while still serving and thriving in ministry!

Click here to learn more about this powerful new resource.

© Nelson Searcy. All Rights Reserved.

About Nelson Searcy

Nelson Searcy is an experienced church growth strategist, pastor, church planter and coach, consulting with churches around the world. As founder of Church Leader Insights and the Renegade Pastors Network, he has personally trained more than 3,500 church leaders in over 45 denominations through live events, seminars and monthly coaching. Nelson is also the Founding and Lead Pastor of The Journey Church, with locations across New York City and in Boca Raton, FL. Nelson and his church routinely appear on lists such as “The 50 Most Influential Churches” and “The 25 Most Innovative Leaders.” He is the author of over 100 church growth resources and 18+ books, including The Renegade Pastor: Abandoning Average in Your Life, Ministry and The Difference Maker: Using Your Everyday Life for Eternal Impact, and At the Cross with the People Who Were There. He and his wife, Kelley, have one son, Alexander.