How to comfort the terminally ill

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 

the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 

who comforts us in all our affliction, 

so that we may be able to comfort those 

who are in any affliction, 

with the comfort with which we 

ourselves are comforted by God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV

I think the hardest thing for people who know someone who is terminally ill is to know what to say or do. In order to avoid saying or doing the wrong thing, they/we sometimes avoid the person, which is wrong of course and so unnecessary. It's really very simple...just be there for the person.
     - After first hearing the news, just let them know that you're praying for them. Even if the person isn't religious, it is so helpful to know that others care enough to pray.
My late husband was so moved to learn that so many people were praying for him. People in other states, whole churches and prayer chains sent him cards letting him know that he was being prayed for and that they cared about him.
     - There were days when he was home alone and it lifted his spirits to have people visit; even just to have someone drop in and watch television with him.
     - It's okay and often preferred to talk about normal things and act like everything is fine. The person is reminded of the illness enough as it is without making it the topic of every conversation.
     - Don't buy the person "things" that are meant to help him/her cope, like "how to" manuals, healing stones, or the latest "as seen on Dr. Oz" remedy. Cards and prayers are the best gifts of all. 

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Let's pray for someone we know who is facing a potentially terminal illness. I'll post daily reminders on:
twitter @7DegreesOfMe
instagram @archadia27
facebook group 7th Hour Prayer Power