Finding Hope in Times of Grief

November 17 is not just another day. It’s the day that made me ”N8Sis1.” It’s the day that my baby brother, Nathan (N8), was born.

I am so thankful that the Lord saw fit to give my family the gift of Nathan on this day….and that’s exactly what his name means: “Gift of God.”

Nathan would have been 31 today and it’s hard to swallow the last time we saw him was when he was 25.

…but on Nathan’s first earthly birthday after he went to heaven, I opened my Bible to this scripture: And the  day of one’s death is better than the day of one’s birth. Ecclesiastes 7:1

So, even though he doesn’t need his earthly birthday anymore, we are still celebrating that he is part of our family and that we will, one day, be with Him forever!

My mom’s “banner verse” for her life is:

“I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living” Psalm 27:13.

…and she is blessed to have a unique piece by our sweet friend, Caroline, which beautifully displays this verse as a constant reminder in a prominent place in my parent’s home. It is an exceptionally special reminder today….on Nathan’s birthday!

original artwork by Caroline Simas of Multiple Blessings

Blessings on your November 17 as you remain confident that you WILL see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!

Sovereign Over Us by Aaron Keyes

There is strength within the sorrow, There is beauty in our tears
You meet us in our mourning, With a love that casts out fear
You are working in our waiting, Sanctifying us
When beyond our understanding, You're teaching us to trust

Your plans are still to prosper, You have not forgotten us
You're with us in the fire and the flood
Faithful forever, Perfect in love
You are sovereign over us

You are wisdom unimagined, Who could understand your ways
Reigning high above the heavens, Reaching down in endless grace
Youʼre the Lifter of the lowly, Compassionate and kind
You surround and You uphold me, Your promises are my delight

Even what the enemy means for evil
You turn it for our good, You turn it for our good and for your glory
Even in the valley You are faithful
Youʼre working for our good, Youʼre working for our good and for your glory

I ran across this list and 100% agreed with every myth. Do I have any witnesses out there? Which myth has been an exceptional challenge for you in dealing with your own grief?

Grief is a natural response to loss, and it can unfold in many ways. Unfortunately, well-intentioned onlookers …often say things that mistakenly imply to the bereaved that there’s a “right” way to grieve.

Myth 1: It’s possible to cry too much.

If any of you women happen to be looking for a Bible Study, Glenda is leading a very timely one on the Book of James, and the good news is it is available online.

Why is it so timely? Because it is on the topic of TRIALS–unprecedented trials! It is not too late to join us here–especially you moms out there. Come chime in. We would love to have you.

Now, a timely testimony of trials . . . and perhaps an album to help you get your praise on even in the midst of your own trials. You may remember this worship leader from this post.

Don’t you love it when you’re at the point where you need a big boost and at that very moment, the Lord gives you exactly what you need just when you need it?

I did not attend our church tonight and a sweet friend was sure to send me encouragement via this song right when she got home. Bless her because I received it JUST when I needed it. Thank you, Jesus!

I know it will bless you, too, as you embark on another full week of putting one foot in front of another.

Click here to see video:
Still_Central2.flv&vidTitle=Sanctuary

Still
Hillsong United

Hide me now
Under your wings
Cover me
within your mighty hand

When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God

Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know his power
In quietness and trust

We have randomly selected our Comfort Food {Giveaway!} winner using random.org. Shauna Mulligan will be receiving the $75 package from Sympathy Food!

Shauna said:

I love the food idea and the ham seems to be such a practical package… My husband is in end stage lung disease and in hospice care. This site helps me remember I have to go on, his death doesn’t end my life also. I am also following on FB

God bless you, Shauna. We hope this gift will bless you and your family as you walk through theses days. Congratulations on winning! Please give us your email address within 48 hours so we can make sure you get your gift!

…and THANK YOU, Sympathy Food for hosting this generous giveaway! We look forward to working with you more in the future!