Crises may be personal, congregational, societal, national, or even global. But if there are those in the sphere of the preacher’s influence and spiritual care who have been affected, they need a word from the Lord to help them cope.

This word should be sensitive. The message should start by building a bridge to hurting people as the preacher assures them he is well aware of what they are going through. If the crisis has encompassed the preacher, it would be appropriate for him to share personal reactions. It is also helpful to note that in times of trauma, no one needs a heavy sermon. The remarks should be relatively brief, but hopefully helpful.

Then, the message should be informative. Biblical examples of similar crises could be outlined. An explanation of how a sovereign God allows humans to choose how they will act—and determines that they will live with the consequences of their choices—somewhat helps to explain how crises happen. It should be readily admitted that there ...