You Don’t Have to Fix It: Loving People in Pain

Have you ever had someone trust you with something heavy, and suddenly you’re not sure what to say?

A friend tells you their marriage is falling apart. A volunteer quietly admits they’re exhausted and thinking about stepping away. You want to respond well, but your mind races. What if trust isn’t about having the perfect words, but about showing up with steadiness, humility, and care?

In this episode, hosts Tanner Smith and Sarah Johnson are joined by Holly Wilson from Safe Haven Ministries to talk about what trustworthiness looks like in real relationships, especially when someone shares a painful story.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why judgment is often self-protection, and how to step out of it

• How body language, pacing, and presence communicate safety

• What to do when you’re out of your depth, and why honesty builds trust

Show Notes

• Safe Haven Ministries — Learn more about their work supporting individuals impacted by domestic violence and human trafficking: safehavenministries.org

• Slowing Down Guide — A formation guide from The Colossian Forum for practicing presence and steadiness in moments of stress. Download here!

• Hope in Your Inbox — The Colossian Forum’s weekly newsletter with practices, reflections, and encouragement. Subscribe here: colossianforum.org/newsletter

• Fred Rogers quote: “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. The people we trust with that important talk can help us know that we are not alone.”

• Scripture: Mark 5:25–34 — Jesus’ unhurried, attentive response to the woman who touches the hem of his garment

If you’re interested in learning more about The Colossian Forum, visit our website colossianforum.org, and follow us on social media @colossianforum.