Grieving over a loved one is an experience that, sooner or later, we all go through. We grieve because of our love for another person. My father died after a brief illness and left a huge heart hole. To help me overcome my grief, I spent the next five months meditating on the Psalms. Then there came a day when I moved on to my regular devotional time. The wound in my heart had healed as the Lord ministered to me.
Today you may be grieving over the loss of a loved one and wondering why you can’t seem to move forward as you would like. When we are experiencing grief, it isn’t easy to think we will be better. But remember, the Lord is always there during our grief, and we can be thankful as believers for our hope in Jesus.
Joseph and his Brothers Grieve over the Loss of Their Father
Jacob had a long life that included many trials as the Lord refined him. Then as a significantly older man, Jacob died and went to heaven. His earthly life was over, but his children and grandchildren would continue their journey, greatly missing their loved one. Although Jacob was elderly, that did not negate the grief his loved ones felt for him. Genesis 49:33 When Jacob had finished this charge to his sons, he drew his feet into the bed, breathed his last, and joined his ancestors in death. Joseph threw himself on his father and wept over him and kissed him.[1]
Responding Biblically to Grief
In this world, we will experience grief. Be encouraged; Jesus defeated death once and for all on the cross. We should not be surprised to experience a wave of grief coming over us, even if our loss was long ago. A Biblical response to grieving does not mean we ignore the pain or don’t have hope. Our faith grows stronger as we rely on the Lord, who helps us work through our grief. Philippians 4:13For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. 14 Even so, you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty. [2]
Jesus also spoke about grief. Matthew 5:4God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. [3] As we grieve, Jesus brings supernatural comfort and healing as we look to Him. Remember, it is alright to talk about your grief. Also, keep reminding yourself that the Lord loves you, and that grief can never separate us from the love of God. He is our reliable refuge.
Sometimes we need to climb into the Lord’s lap like a small child climbs into their mother’s lap for comfort. As believers, we have hope eternal, and one day however long, we will be united with our loved ones.
To learn more about grieving over a loved one, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/joseph-forgives-his-brothers
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.