"Just be positive!" "God only gives you what you can handle." "Others have it harder."

People mean well when they say these phrases. They intend to offer comfort and help during difficult times. Yet, ask yourself, do these self-help phrases actually offer comfort to you, or do they make things feel worse?

Author Faith Doerr has heard her fair share of these phrases during struggles in her life. And she knows first-hand how they feel like "nails on a chalkboard" from the receiving end. If these phrases don't offer comfort, then is there something that can? Scripture. God's Word is full of true comfort that can help you in times of trouble and distress. Take a look at eight self-help phrases to see how they can actually do the opposite of their intentions, then turn to the Bible to find real words of comfort you can offer to those who need it.

Each chapter includes a Journal Prompt, Scripture verses, a prayer, "Gentle Reminders," and responses for when you hear these eight phrases. Learn how to offer real comfort and hope to those in your life through Scripture in God's Encouraging Word.