Tips for Ministering to Someone in Crisis | LG Guide March 2026
As we make disciples and train leaders, seasons will come when people will be walking through a season of crisis. Discipling people in crisis requires a slightly different process.
When ministering to someone in crisis:
1.Try to get a one-to-one meeting to assess if they can share in a small group setting.
It is not always beneficial for someone in a crisis to share in a larger group. They may not feel safe, or the members of the group may not be able to empathize adequately with the person in crisis.
Meeting with them in a one-to-one setting will allow them to process with a safe leader first to let some “pressure out” and allow the leader to make an assessment of next steps.
2. If you can’t get a one-to-one, strategically cluster the group so that the person has a safe cluster to share.
Sometimes, a one-to-one at the group instead of clustering is better.
If another safe person is available, then cluster so that the person in crisis feels safe to share.
3. In the cluster or one-to-one, ditch the guide to allow the person to unpack their sould.
Practice S.L.A.P.P.
Start the conversation, creating a safe space where they can share
Listen: practice incarnational listening
Ask follow-up questions, don’t jump to advice giving.
Pray for their situation and invite the Holy Spirit to comfort and bring guidance.
Proclaim God’s truth to give guidance and encouragement.
4. Until the person is comfortable sharing with a larger group, keep the cluster and one-to-one consistent.
The goal would be for them to join the entire group and share with others. This helps with healing, but this should not be rushed.
Until then, keep meeting one-on-one with the goal of starting the One2One book or other discipleship material, and keep the clusters consistent.
Tips for ministering to a person in crisis:
Create a “judgment-free zone.
Make sure everyone in the cluster or group knows to refrain from judgment.
Practice your “poker face.”
Give them vision beyond their circumstance.
Slowly enlarge the circle with safe others who can empathize, support, and pray.
Be consistent.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
What stood out to you from this teaching that was new or something you can apply today? Explain.
Are you facing any situations where you are ministering to someone in crisis? What are you learning from that situation?
PRAYER POINTS:
Pray for one another to lead and love people well, particularly when they are facing a crisis.
Pray for one another for any challenging situations we may be facing personally.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Men’s Huddle:
Calling all men! Join us on March 7th for our second "Men’s Huddle," featuring Pastor Tim Johnson, a former college football national and Super Bowl champion. This event will include a time of worship, food, fellowship, impartation, and inspiration aimed at helping us grow in godliness and biblical manhood. For more information, visit pearlside.org/lifematters.
UPCOMING CLASSES:
Freedom Weekend:
Kapolei Women’s Freedom Weekend, Saturday, March 7, from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm at Lanakila Baptist School
Kapolei Men’s Freedom Weekend, Saturday, March 14, from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm at Lanakila Baptist School
Main Campus Men’s Freedom Weekend, Saturday, March 28, from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm in Classroom 1 at Main Campus
Kahala Men’s Freedom Weekend, Saturday, April 25, from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm in Classroom 1 at Main Campus
Discipleship Track:
Ewa Discipleship Track, Sundays, March 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, from 10:30 am - 12:00 pm at Ewa Elementary School Library
Kahala Discipleship Track, Sundays, April 12, 19, 26, May 3, & 17, from 10:30 am - 12:00 pm at Kahala Elementary Conference Room.
