I’ve learned that we never get over grief. It becomes a traveling companion as we proceed through our lives. We discover that despite our losses, life does go on.
And one day, when we hear the name of that special someone, and we smile instead of cry, we know we have turned a corner in our journeys. We become grateful for those we have loved, and we want to share that sense of gratitude with the world.
Today I want to share five habits for finding joy as you journey through grief.
Be Still.
Too often, we busy ourselves to avoid facing the obvious, the inevitable. Remember, God is there with us, in the valley of the shadow of death. Psalm 46 describes a refuge, solace in the shadow of His wing. Feel that sense of security. “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, NIV).
Realize you are not alone.
When you feel lonely and scared, realize that God’s Son is standing near, protecting you even from your mental battles. Others have successfully maneuvered their grief journeys, and you will too. Join a faith-based grief support group. You will be amazed at what you have to offer them. “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you” (Deuteronomy 31:8, NLT).
Take care of your well-being.
Learn to care for yourself as you have cared for others. Be patient; there is no timetable for grief. Check-in with your physician and/or a Christian therapist or spiritual counselor for additional help and support, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30, NIV).
Help someone.
One of the healthiest habits to develop is actively seeking ways to aid someone else. Invite someone for daily walks or a cup of tea, or a game of pickleball; you both will benefit from exercise and fellowship. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10, NIV).
Trust in God.
I’m learning the more I come to know God, through studying His Word and fellowshipping with other believers, the bigger and stronger my God becomes. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV).
Psalm 23 has encouraged countless generations of believers struggling with mighty troubles – and it’s as true today as the day King David wrote the words. We need to remember that God promises to refresh our souls, to guide us along the right paths. Even in the darkest valleys, we don’t fear evil because God is always with us. His goodness, mercy, and love will follow us all the days of our lives until the day we go to dwell in the house of the Lord forever, surrounded by our loved ones.
I’d love to hear from you, and together we can discover how to find joy along the journey.
What a wonderful, uplifting message for so many of us suffering grief or loss–and the news these days is full of tragedies, so we need those reminders of where we stand in God’s world.
Cindy, it is so easy to get lost in the suffering and grief surrounding us. More than ever, we need to remain in God’s Word as we stand in His world. Blessings, my friend.
I’ve have friends who’ve lost a spouse recently that I’m going to share this good, applicable, and hopeful advice with.
Candyce, I appreciate you sharing the information. Our journey and the lessons we have learned are essential to share with others.
Regards,
Jackie
Jackie, your postings uplift me and so many others as we travel with you on our lives journey. I am thankful for our Lords peace and comfort through every trail we encounter. But, as you state, we also need to rely on HIS WORD as our guide plus take ME time, as you mentioned. Thank you
Aunt Mattie, you are uplifting to me on life’s journey. So grateful God blessed our family with such a rich legacy to follow.
Love,
Jackie
Wonderful words of encouragement. I have traveled through loss of dear loved ones, many major health issues and disappointments but ‘Through it All’ my God has been with me. Your words of wisdom also apply as ways I sought help. May our Lord continue to bless you.
Wendy, yes, “Through It All,” there was Jesus. Amen and amen.
Hugs,
Jackie
I’m in my second year of grief after the loss of my loved one. Your insights are right on target, especially your statement of “There’s no timeline for grief.” It’s a painful journey, but God does send joy in the smiles and laughter of grandchildren, the loveliness of spring flowers, and the kindness of friends. Thank you for taking on this difficult topic–your message is helpful and hopeful. Wishing you blessings.
Katherine, I am sorry for your loss. We travel the road of grief together as we learn to lean into the peace of God’s love. So good to read you are finding joy along your journey. Sharing that wisdom with others will be a comfort to you as well. Take care of yourself as you have cared for others. Remember, God is always by our side.
Regards,
Jackie
Your heartfelt advice and supporting biblical wisdom are invaluable. I know I will face this stage of life in the not too distant future. So I plan to revisit this post to avail myself of your wisdom and faith journey.
Cathy, your love for your family, is evident to all who know you. You guide others in their time of need, knowing how important it is to care for the caregivers. Your Faith4Caregivers is a beautiful ministry. So grateful to God for bringing us together.
Jackie
Wonderful post. I would have never made it through losing my Dad without God and my grief counselor. I love the scriptures you added.
Jennifer, so glad you found comfort in the post. It indeed was guided by God’s Word and the Holy Spirit. I am holding you and your family up in prayer.
Friends in Christ,
Jackie