TRIGGERS: THE AWFUL ROLLER COASTER OF GRIEF

Rain-filled view of a roller coaster as a visual for the grief roller coaster

Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts … Read More

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT DEATH?

Open Bible in perspective

Here’s the challenging truth: God never promised that we would not die in this world. In fact, Scripture teaches the opposite. This earthly life is temporary — eternal life is the promise that follows. Life on this earth is not guaranteed to last forever. This is a hard subject, but one worth exploring, so let’s dive in. 10+ Important Bible … Read More

DREADED FIRST TIMES: FACING THE UNEXPECTED MOMENTS OF GRIEF

Woman having moments of grief and sadness sitting on a couch

Your journey through grief and healing will involve many ups and downs. As you confront the reality of the loss and learn to move forward, your struggle begins to change.  The overwhelming waves of grief become less frequent, and some of them will even become less intense.  But after the numbness begins to wear off, and you begin to return … Read More

ADJUSTING TO YOUR NEW REALITY: LIFE AFTER LOSS

Road bending away around a hill, representing the future, and life after loss

You’ve lost someone important to you. It can feel overwhelming, and like you can’t cope sometimes. This kind of grief is a natural response to loss. But with each new day, with the help of a support group of friends, family, and perhaps mental health professionals, you will find your grief feels more bearable. That you can continue living. Your … Read More

7 TIPS FOR NAVIGATING HOLIDAY GRIEF WELL

Woman looking sadly at Christmas tree, representing holiday grief

Have you ever been startled by a loud, unpleasant noise that made you instantly turn away? That’s how holiday grief can feel. For someone who is grieving through the holidays, the sounds of the season—music, laughter, and greetings—can feel overwhelming. What sounds like joy to others may feel loud and harsh to your aching heart. The decorations, events, and festive … Read More

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT CREMATION?

Hand holding a white rose

 “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.” —I Thessalonians 4:13-14 (NIV) The … Read More

IS IT WRONG TO QUESTION GOD WHEN LIFE IMPLODES?

Picture of a Bible open to James 1:5-6 with question marks floating over the text on how to question God

When one’s life implodes due to tragedy or unexpected loss, it’s normal to wonder why. To think about what could have been, if different choices had been made?  And that wondering often turns to questions for God, because God knew this was going to happen, and didn’t prevent it. That’s a hard place to find yourself. Especially if you’ve been … Read More

THE COMPLICATED GRIEF SUICIDE LOSS SURVIVORS FACE

 Grief is pain beyond comprehension for those who have not yet felt it. It can feel hopeless, and it is a sobering realization that you will never see the one you love in your earthly life again. Grieving a suicide is a uniquely complex form of grief. There are a lot of emotions and a lot of complexity that you … Read More

GRIEF CARE: HOW TO SUPPORT THOSE DEALING WITH GRIEF

Losing a loved one is difficult. Someone you cared about and may have even seen on a daily basis is now no longer with you. It’s a drastic change, and it can leave us feeling hopeless. That’s why grief care is important.  Grief care is a ministry to reach out to people who are hurting. Maybe that is right after … Read More

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH SUICIDE GRIEF?

When you lose someone to suicide, your world is rocked in unique ways. Whether or not you suspected there was a possibility, this grief journey is difficult.  The impact of suicide loss can leave you feeling lost and disoriented, wondering what to do and how to cope with the weight of grief, pain, and confusion. There are aspects of grief … Read More