After Grief – Joy Restored

Since the onset of the pandemic, so many people have lost loved ones. Most of us have been touched by the death of a friend or family member. The U.S. Census Bureau reports deaths increased by 19% between 2019 and 2020 following the pandemic. It’s reported to be the largest spike in mortality in 100 years.

Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.
─ John 16:22 NIV

You were not created for grief. God’s original plan was for all of us to live forever in this lifetime, but Adam and Eve chose differently and death entered our once perfect world. God knew the human condition before He ever created us, so He set a plan in motion to redeem us through His Son.  But the consequences of disobedience from the beginning is the why behind our sorrow.

A time will come when no one can take away your joy.

God also knew we’d have sorrow when we are separated by the death of those we love. Our verse today is Jesus’ words to His disciples as He tried to prepare them for His death, burial, resurrection and ascension. At the time, they didn’t understand what He was trying to convey to them. But He sent the Holy Spirit to give them understanding and comfort.

Although the separation from those you love who have died is painful, the Holy Spirit is with you to help you process the grief and restore your joy. Just as Jesus promised His followers they would see Him again; you too will see those you loved who accepted Him before they moved to their eternal home.  

Today’s One Thing

Give voice to your grief today. Talk to someone you trust and know will pray for you. Speak with them honestly about how you feel. Ask the Holy Spirit to comfort you during this temporary separation, and receive joy by faith, believing it will be restored to you.

Go Deeper

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