Daily Devotionals

Warm Comfort During Times of Grief

Posted in Suffering/Healing

Scripture: “You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy that I might sing praises to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give You thanks forever.” – Psalm 30:11-12 

We lost our daughter in April. Ever since then, people have told me they don’t know what to say to me. Finding the right words or response when someone has experienced loss can be hard. Understanding this first-hand, I now can offer some guidance.  

It’s alright to acknowledge that Kacy is no longer with us. It may make us cry or it may not- it depends on the day. Even if it does make us cry, it’s okay. We suffered a great loss, and it’s good for us to cry. After the recent All Saints Sunday service, someone came up to me and gave me a great big, long hug. She didn’t even say a word to me. The hug said it all. 

Sometimes it feels too awkward to acknowledge one’s loss. So just asking how the grieving person is doing, in general, is ok. Any outreach of acknowledgment is ok. 

Jesus suffered a loss when his friend Lazuras died. Jesus was sad that his friend had died. He even cried. Lazaras’ sisters asked Jesus why he didn’t come sooner so he could have saved him from dying. Jesus had his reasons: he delayed coming sooner in order to show the power of God by bringing Lazarus back to life. He did all his miracles to show God’s power. 

With God’s help, Jesus also will help us with our pain and suffering. That holds true for those who have suffered a great loss, like we have, as well as those who have suffered other kinds of pain. He loves us and doesn’t want to see his children hurting. He does what he does for his reasons. We may not see those reasons in our lifetime, but I believe him with my heart. 

Personally, I must believe that Kacy’s going to heaven at this time was for the good. As hard as that may be to believe sometimes, I must keep that thought in my head and in my heart. 

We will always be grieving our loss, but the pain will lessen. When you see us, do not be sad for us. Kacy is in heaven with our Lord and no longer must suffer the pains that she was going through. When you see us, don’t be afraid to share a smile, handshake, or a hug. You are comforting us without saying a word.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, please help us all be mindful of those who have lost loved ones. Help us to be supportive by offering a caring hug, a warm smile, or asking about them in general. Let them know that we can be there for them without even having to say a word. Amen.

Submitted by Kathy Winterhalter