Everybody experiences loss. It’s the most unfortunate part of this earthly life, having to say goodbye to someone we love. The thing about grief is this: there is no ONE right way to handle it. Everybody is different. Our circumstances and emotional makeup are all different. Perhaps this is why God put so many different examples of loss in the Bible. So we would know we are not alone if we handle a loss differently than others around us. (I will share a few of those examples with you today.)
One thing we all must remember, and we do have in common: when it comes to grieving, we must give it to God. All the pain, the sorrow, sadness and tears. Any anger, fear, and loneliness must be brought to our heavenly Father. Pray. Seek the grace of God. His peace and joy can fill your soul, even in the midst of your sadness.
The Shunamite Woman
In the book of 2 Kings in scripture we read about a woman who wanted a child for years, and couldn’t have one. One day, because of her faithfulness, God finally answered her prayers, and she had a little boy. As that boy grew, there came a time he died in his mother’s arms.
Her method for handling grief?
Determination. She very matter-of-factly loaded up what she needed and began a journey to talk to the man of God. She was determined that all would be well once God had the final say in the situation. And it was. She put the situation in God’s hands, and told everyone along the way that everything was fine.
Mary and Martha
In the book of John we learn Mary and Martha’s brother Lazarus had died. Everyone had hoped Jesus would come before it was too late, and would heal Lazarus. But Jesus didn’t arrive “on time”. These two sisters had very different ways of reacting in their grief.
Martha
This woman left the others who had come to comfort her, and had to talk to Jesus. She spent “alone time” with her savior, pouring her heart out to him.
Mary
Mary sat in the house, surrounded by her loved ones. Perhaps the closeness of family and friends was what was comforting to her in those days after losing her brother. However, we also read that when she realized just how close Jesus was, and how he desired for her to draw near to him, she went immediately. It’s okay to surround yourself with loved ones while grieving. But don’t forget where the ultimate comfort for your soul comes from.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4
But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
1 Thessalonians 4:13
The bottom line…
Grief is a part of our life here on earth. Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed about how you handle it. The tears can be cleansing. The memories heartwarming. Just remember: God is with you. Loss of loved ones is something we go THROUGH, not land in and dwell there forever. That’s not how God intended it for us. Praying for your heart, my friend, if you have lost a loved one recently. May God heal our hearts together through His word, His Holy Spirit and our walk with Him.
Thank you. Well said 👏 👌 👍
An excellent and timely reminder. It is easy to get ‘bogged down’ in the loss of a dearly loved friend/family member. Falling back on the Word, the Grace and Protection, the Comfort of our Heavenly Father is what we should do to help alleviate the pain and sense of aloneness. Praying constantly for others in a time of loss is the best thing and sometimes the only thing we can do. Our God is not only good, but He’s GREAT. He will give just what we need, when it is needed most. Be still and feel his love…
Such great reminders! This brought back the sermon on the Shunamite woman that Bro. Jerry Harris brought during revival. Having to watch from home actually helped me focus better and I went back several times to review parts. Never advocating missing services unless physically unable, but God sure got my attention on that one! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and relating each to God’s Word!