From the first death of a pet to losing an aging relative, sooner or later we will all experience some sort of grief or loss. During these times, it is important to remember God’s promises that He has given throughout Scripture. Let’s explore a few of these promises.
One promise is Romans 8:18: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
God is acknowledging that there will, in fact, be suffering in this temporal, broken world. Sin, death, and the devil mean we will all mourn loss here on earth and experience pain. But what we experience in our lives now is unimaginably different than the glory God will give us in eternal life. No matter what we grieve here, those who have faith have eternity in heaven to look forward to. We can be confident that our Christian loved one is enjoying eternity in heaven with Jesus. One day everything will be made right. We will all be resurrected from the dead and reunited with all of our loved ones who went ahead of us in faith. After that, we will live for eternity in heaven with our Lord Jesus.
Remember, the suffering here on earth is temporary. Our perfect life with God is eternal.
Another promise is from 2 Corinthians 1:3-4: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
In this passage we see a promise and a command. God will provide comfort to you in your suffering. Through the prayer of those around you and God’s loving mercy, you will navigate your grief and continue living your life. However, there is another side to this coin. God also sends you to pray with and comfort those around you who are going through tough times. This may be as simple as saying a prayer for that person. You can also help provide for their physical needs during times of trouble. Sometimes people do this by making food for the person or helping to get the person’s mind off of their grief (Even if just briefly).
The most important thing to remember is that God is in control.
He is more powerful than death. This is true even when it feels like he is not listening or doesn’t care. If there is nothing else that you can think to do in grief, prayer of powerful, so remember to use it!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for this day in your creation. Thank you for all the blessings that I have in my life. Holy Spirit, please create in me the words to say to those around me experiencing grief and comfort me in my own struggles. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Journal
- When is a time that you have had grief? How do God work through others to help you?
- How can you help share God’s promises with those around you who may be grieving?
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