Unfortunately, hardships and loss are natural and expected facts of life, but their certainty does not make dealing with them any easier. During such times, it is all too easy to lose hope, faith, and overall motivation in life. Grief can bring an array of emotions such as anger, guilt, loneliness, and hopelessness as well as unhealthy coping mechanisms.
As paradoxical as it seems, the pain of grief can actually benefit us. Pain can be purposeful.
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28
Our testimonies can inspire others, be the motivation needed to improve our own lives and health, create a supportive community that encourages and uplifts each other, or simply remind us that our precious time on earth is limited and not to be wasted.
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."- 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Suggestions for grieving in a healthy way
Embrace your emotions. All of them! One technique is to designate a pillow as an "emotions pillow" and let it be the object of any emotions you feel. When angry, punch it! If you are feeling lonely or sad, hug and cry into it.
Surround yourself with supportive and
compassionate people. Isolation during this vulnerable time can be detrimental to your healing. "Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up." -Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10
Talk it out with someone. Whether it be a therapist, a local or virtual grief group, friends, and/or family. Bottling up your pain will only cause it to manifest in other ways, including physical ailments. If there are things that you do not feel comfortable sharing with anyone, journal your emotions and thoughts. The point is to let it out!
Last, but not least, PRAY! During the height of grief, it is all too easy to abandon your relationship with God, especially if you are angry with Him about the loss. He already knows what you are going through and has promised to never abandon you, so just tell Him what you are feeling. Ask for strength and clarity during this hard time. He will give you all you need.
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."- Matthew 5:4
Grieving is a very personal experience and is unique to each person. There is no timeline for the process and there is no "right way" to respond to loss. However, choose a way that will ultimately give God glory and will honor whomever you have lost.
Written by Ashley R. (Flourishing Faith Ministries - Editor)