- Don’t stay too long.
- Don’t lecture them about what they should do. Ask about their condition but don’t try to play doctor. Make any suggestions carefully.
- Don’t try to force them to be happy. If possible cheer them up but don’t try to be a comedian. People in pain are not in the mood (Ecc. 3:4; Prov. 25:20).
- Don’t tell them about everybody else’s problems (or yours).
- Don’t tell them they look tired, bad, sick, or pale.
- Weigh each situation by its own circumstances as to what to say, how long to stay, or what to talk about.
- Respect the feelings of sick people first.
- Remember that most sick people love prayer.
- Offer to help and make sure you mean it.
- Do something kind such as bringing flowers.
Remember that Jesus said, “I was sick and you visited me” (Matt. 25:36)!