How can we offer safe care?

God is concerned about safety and protection. He is a refuge: a place of safety where we can be protected from danger, where we can hide and feel safe from harm. God is a shield of protection, a rock to hide behind, a wing to take shelter beneath, a father in whose arms we are safely embraced.

One day we will be safe forever in Christ from all threats and dangers. But, even now, God is concerned that His church is a place of care and growth, safe from harmful words and actions (think James, for example, and warnings against favouritism, gossip, in-fighting and anger).

In our pastoral care we want to reflect that safety. None of us wants to do harm. Instead, we want to offer help, protection and relief. We want to be safe and trustworthy carers of others. How can we grow in offering safe care?