The death of a spouse, a child, or a close friend may seem more than a human heart can hold. Although we all will face death in time, how do we wrestle with it when it strikes a loved one?
Losing a loved one to death is one of the most complex separations on earth.
Coping with Death
For the Christian, there is eternity. As C. S. Lewis put it, “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” Though we know heaven is real, it’s hard to get past the hurt of losing someone precious.
Thankfully, when we turn to God for help, He never fails. Reading through the promises of God’s Word brings life to our hurting souls. And death can be viewed in light of eternity.
The compassion and love of God with the comfort that comes from the Holy Spirit will surround us in times of grief. Focusing on the things above will put our brief life on earth into proper perspective. Grief and loss are devastating, yet God’s grace comes to the weeping heart.
God’s Love and Compassion Comforts Us
The shortest verse in the 66 books and 31,102 verses of the Bible reveals God’s deep love and compassion in these two words: Jesus wept! The death of Jesus’ dear friend Lazarus is a fitting story.
Although Jesus knew Lazarus had been dead for four days, He told his disciples, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it” (John 11:4).
With the recent loss of my father, everyday since has somehow seemed more painful than the one before. But, I cannot allow my grief and heartbreak to completely take me over. And, most days I can honestly say I do not see how I make it through. The still constant dreams I have of my dad, the little things here and there that remind me of him somehow. Like whenever I see a John Wayne western on tv, or the smell of cornbread baking, & just watching football on Sundays….which we would always do together. All these things now bring me to absolute tears…I do not even watch a football game anymore, because watching sports together was one of my dad and I ‘s most enjoyed moments we spent together…I just miss him so bad. For I know he is with the Lord now, and I will see him again soon, and that is what keeps me going. I know that death is just merely a moment in time, for I will get to spend eternity in heaven with him by my side.
