Grief is a universal experience that many of us try to avoid. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a dream, or a relationship, we often feel compelled to stay strong, to move on quickly, and to suppress our sorrow. Yet, the Bible shows us that grief is not only a natural response to loss—it’s a holy one.
Grief is woven into the fabric of Scripture. Think of King David, a man after God’s own heart, who didn’t shy away from lamenting before the Lord. In Psalm 13, David cries, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?” He pours out his heart in anguish, showing us that God can handle our deepest sorrows. The Psalms, full of raw emotion, serve as a powerful reminder that God invites us to bring our grief to Him.
Even Jesus, who embodies divine love and strength, grieved. In John 11:35, we find the shortest verse in the Bible: “Jesus wept.” These two words carry profound significance. Jesus knew He would raise Lazarus from the dead, yet He wept with compassion for His friends and for the pain death causes. His tears remind us that mourning is not a sign of weakness but of love.
Grief is also a pathway to healing. Ecclesiastes 3:4 tells us there is “a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” This verse recognizes the rhythm of life—grief is a season, not a permanent state. Denying ourselves the chance to mourn can stall our healing and keep us from experiencing the comfort God offers.
In Matthew 5:4, Jesus promises, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Mourning creates space for God’s comfort to enter. He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), and in our grief, we find His presence in ways we might otherwise miss.
So, allow yourself to grieve. It’s biblical. It’s not a lack of faith to mourn; rather, it’s an expression of faith to trust God with your pain. As we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we do not walk alone. We grieve, but we grieve with hope, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Let your heart ache if it needs to. Cry out to God if you must. And know that in the process, He will heal, comfort, and restore you in His perfect time.
Pastor Jacob Biswell