Grief is a journey, not a straight line, but a process. Through a biblical lens, we can understand it like this:

Stage 1: Denial

"This can't be happening." But even in the shock, God is still present. Find comfort in this verse: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed." - Psalm 34:18

Stage 2: Anger

"Why, God?" It's important to know that God can handle your questions and invites your honesty. Find comfort in Psalm 62:8: "O my people, trust in Him at all times. Pour out your heart to Him, for God is our refuge."

Stage 3: Bargaining

"If only I had..." During this part of grief, remember that His grace covers our regrets. Call to mind Philippians 3:13-14: "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Stage 4: Depression

"I'm overwhelmed with sadness." This stage of the grieving process is heavy, and it may feel like you can't move on, like there's no hope for tomorrow. When you feel this way, remember Psalm 23:4: "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

Stage 5: Acceptance

"This is my reality now." Accepting what has happened doesn't mean forgetting, but it does mean trusting that God can bring healing over time. Even though this is our reality now, we have the hope of heaven to sustain us until we see Jesus face-to-face. Remember these words: "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory." - Colossians 3:1-4

You're not weak for grieving; you're human. God meets us in our pain. Feel what you need to feel, and let Him carry you through it.

If you need help navigating the grieving process, we're here to help. Contact our team today. You don't have to go through this alone!