by David Chadwick
Grief is real. But thankfully, because of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, we now have access to restored communion with the Father, the blood of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. A life surrendered to Jesus gives us a new operating system rather than the evil, dysfunctional one by which Satan wants to keep the world ensnared. Because of this we can grieve differently.
I want you to know you can experience good grief. Understand that grief is real. Find friends with whom you can process your grief. Grieve openly, as needed. Remember that everyone grieves. And today’s final tip? Grieve with hope!
1 Thessalonians 4:13 says that we do not grieve as those who have no hope. We know there is more to the story because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I’ve walked through grief with people who have no faith and it’s so painful to watch. They have no hope whatsoever. No context for their pain. No words to give eternal perspective. It’s starkly different from walking with those who have faith and therefore display great hope!
What is that great hope? That blessed hope mentioned in Titus 2:13 that gives us strength no matter what we may be facing? It’s the hope that knows Jesus is coming back for his bride. He has made a way for us to get back to the Father. This hope never disappoints.
It’s the hope that we will see our fellow believing friends and family members again! It’s the hope that heaven is real. There will be a day in the world to come where there will be no more pain, tears, trials, or turmoil. A place is being prepared for us right now without any more grief (John 14:2-6). This should give all believers great hope!
I implore each of you. Grieve with hope. Allow the waves of grief to take you where they need you to go, but don’t stop there. Receive the comfort and compassion of Jesus and others in your pain and then get back up and keep swimming! Your fortitude and decision to not give up will pave the way for others to do the same when they experience grief.
The Gospel of Jesus is a “to you, thru you” Gospel. Jesus came TO us because he wants to move THROUGH us to reach others. So as you cultivate good grief, you will be able to help so many others do the same. Keep enduring, saints! “Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:3). Use your pain to help others going through what you have gone through (2 Corinthians 1:4).
Jesus is coming back soon!