Generally, it's worse when they are little and can't communicate precisely what's wrong, but even my adult children elicit the same desires and feelings. Sometimes all I can do is hold them, knowing that it's not enough.
Part of this is an issue with my hero complex. I want to solve other people's problems. I want to be the one that people can count on. But so often I do not have the abilities, skills, or authority to solve the problems that I come across. With my children, I should be the ultimate hero, and thus not being able to help makes me believe that I have failed by an even greater degree.
Still, trying is important, being there is important, and praying is important. Hopefully, doing those things for my children at least helps them feel loved in their time of distress.