Last evening I went to my friend’s dad’s viewing. I couldn’t think of anything to say, so today I want to share Bible verses for the grieving to help others in a similar environment.
When I saw her next to her mom who was next to the casket, it just all seemed so surreal. My mind flashed back to 1977 when I’d hang out at their house. Things seemed simpler then. Her dad always seemed happy. I remember his laugh. He was such a pleasure to be around. How could 44 years have passed by? It didn’t seem possible.
When I approached my friend, suddenly I had no words; no words of comfort or encouragement. I held back tears until I got outside…it’s so difficult to lose a dad, even knowing he’s at peace and in Heaven with our loving Father. My own dad passed away a couple of years ago and still, I think of things to tell him or share with him before realizing they’ll have to wait until we’re together again.
The world has seen so much death over the last two years. It’s amazing in an overwhelming sort of way. It’s not just Covid either. There has been an increase in deaths from other causes, too. I believe God is preparing us for the return of His Son. I also believe this is an opportunity for us as the Church to be a definitive light in the world. We need to lift up one another especially through the trials.
Bible Verses For The Grieving
As I wrote above, I didn’t have any words for my friend yesterday. It’s easier for me to communicate through writing. So, for her, her family, and everyone who is grieving I’d like to share (NKJV):
- Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4
- My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26
- Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26
- For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, we lift up our brothers and sisters who are grieving. Please fill their hearts with comfort that they may feel Your peace. We know those who are with you are joyous and that we will be reunited with them someday. Still, our flesh mourns their earthly absence. Please heal the heavy hearts, Lord, and use these times of tribulation to draw us closer to You. Please unite us, Lord, that we may show the world Your love, grace, and mercy. Thank You for the hope we have in You, and for being with us every hour of every day. We praise Your holy name, and it’s in Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen.
