Just wrote our leaders about this last week. I think the tension is we float in between “Do we spend time on that?” to “Do we solve that?” Sometimes asking questions in themselves are what’s most important, and students need to know that.

Great point. There are different types of “tough questions” Some are just hard to answer because we don’t know the answers to those things. Some are hard because they reveal pain. I also find it’s ok to say- “Let’s dig into that idea together.” I like that you are allowing other students to give their input as well. I think (and I’m sure you are) with questions- like the one you mentioned we have be careful not to let the simple question turn into a full on student debate- if they are not being respectful. There are no “stupid questions,’ sometimes just ones we have no clue about.

William-
This is so true. I love that- and really encourage my team mates to do that within their small group setting. I think we do need to process, but also gives you the opportunity to let them know that you heard them.

Kevin,
Those are the ones that break your heart the most.

I’d say something empathetic, and that we need to talk it through. Something like: “Wow, that must have really hurt. It’s a tough question that I really can’t answer right now in small group. Why don’t we go out for hot chocolate after the group is over.”

That gives you time to think and pray and allows you to give the kind of one-on-one attention a hard question like that deserves.

“When does the hurt go away?”