Yes, Jesus wept and mourned with His loved ones in that devastatingly heartbreaking moment. And the fact that He can identify with my pain is so comforting to me.
You want to know the best thing someone said to me in the middle of my grief?
I was standing in the midst of all the tears falling down on black dresses and black suits on that grey funeral day. My heels were sinking into the grass. I was staring down at an ant pile. The ants were running like mad around a footprint that had squashed their home.
I was wondering if I stood in that pile and let them sting me a million times if maybe that pain would distract me from my soul pain. At least I knew how to soothe physical pain.
Suddenly, this little pigtailed girl skipped by me and exclaimed, “I hate ants.”
And that was hands-down the best thing anyone said that day.
Because she just entered in right where I was. Noticed where I was focused in that moment and just said something basic. Normal. Obvious.
Yes, there is a place for solid Christian answers from well-intentioned friends. Absolutely.
But then there’s also a place to weep with a hurting friend from the depths of your soul.
God help us to know the difference between helpful and hurtful Christian answers.
Dear Lord, thank You for being there in my darkest time. I know You are real and You are the only one who can bring comfort to seemingly impossible situations. Please help me speak Your truth to those around me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
TRUTH FOR TODAY:
Romans 12:15-16a, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another.” (NIV)
Proverbs 15:23, “A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word!” (NIV)
RELATED RESOURCES:
We may live in a broken world, but inner peace and security are still possible. Discover how in Lysa TerKeurst’s book, Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl. Lysa will help you watch God use disappointments for good and find incredible joy as you live your faith out every day. You can order your copy here.
REFLECT AND RESPOND:
Think of someone in your life who is going through a really tough situation. How can you make a difference in their life today?
It may involve serving them and making sure their physical needs are met during this difficult time. Allow God to lead you as you try to serve your friend best.
