God's Grace is Sufficient!
I wanted to remind you that God loves you and to encourage you that your loss wasn't meaningless. While God doesn't always give us explanations, He gives us assurances. God assures us that every trouble we encounter produces a peculiar blessing that is much greater than the trouble. God has something much more significant in store for you. He is a Promise-Keeper! God is faithful!
Grief is normal. Feelings are neither right nor wrong. Having them doesn't make you unspiritual or weak, and not having them doesn't make you spiritual or strong. Please acknowledge your feelings and choose God's will, regardless of your feelings, and He'll strengthen you to handle your grief. Denial only amplifies emotion. God's redemptive plans include suffering, but His grace and power are sufficient to provide whatever you need to bring you to a better position over time.
Also, bask in God's Word throughout your grieving process. God's Word has wisdom and comfort for dealing with stress, anxiety, loneliness, anger, bitterness, hopeless feelings, depression, and suicidal thoughts. God's Presence, His Word, and our connection through Prayer with Him are some of the primary ways that He comforts us!
Reflect on these promises:
"This momentary affliction we suffer will bring us a tremendous and eternal glory, much greater than the trouble." 2 Corinthians 4:7.
"You [God] have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy" Psalm 30:12.
"To all who mourn, God will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair." Isaiah 61:3
"Even a tree has more hope! If it is cut down, it will sprout again and grow new branches." Job 14:7
"Our real power comes from God and not from us. We often suffer, but we are never crushed. Even when we don't know what to do, we never give up. In times of trouble, God is with us, and when we are knocked down, we get up again." 2 Corinthians 4:8-9.
Here's a prayer for you:
Lord God help the family embrace grief with Your comfort and peace to experience the true healing that comes from You.
Grant them Your renewed hope, strength, protection, and provision to get through this challenging season. You know what they need, so I ask that you provide for their every need by your great power, in Jesus' name. Amen!
I love you,
Mike Prah, Pastor
