notesbynora

Grief is one of the heaviest burdens a human heart can carry. When someone we love is gone—whether through death, estrangement, or brokenness—the world feels dimmer, quieter, and unfamiliar. The days can feel endless, the nights unbearable. In those moments, we find ourselves asking: How do I keep breathing? Where do I go when despair threatens to drown me?

The Word of God does not ignore our grief. Instead, it meets us there. Psalm 34:18 promises: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” God does not step away when we are shattered. He draws near. Even when we cannot feel Him, He is bending low, whispering comfort into our souls.

The Scriptures remind us that loss is not the end of the story. In Revelation 21:4, we are told: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” This is not just a distant promise—it is the anchor for our weary hearts. Our loved ones are not forgotten, and neither are we.

When sorrow feels unbearable, we cling to Jesus’ own words in John 16:33: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Grief may visit, but it cannot have the final word.

How do we exist in the day-to-day without those we love? The answer is not in pretending the pain isn’t there, but in surrendering it—sometimes moment by moment—to the One who carries us. Jesus Himself grieved at the tomb of His friend Lazarus. He understands our tears. He does not ask us to erase our sadness, but to place it in His hands.

Isaiah 40:31 reminds us: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” When we cannot imagine running, God gives us just enough strength to walk. When we cannot walk, He gives us enough strength to stand.

To be an overcomer does not mean we stop missing those we’ve lost. It means grief does not destroy our faith. It means we choose, even in trembling, to trust that God’s love is greater than our sorrow. It means we believe that one day, joy will return, and the grave will not have the last say.

Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 12:9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” In our weakness, God’s strength shows up. And that is how we endure—not with our own might, but with His grace poured into every cracked and broken place.

Prayer

Father, in the valley of grief, hold us close. When desperation threatens to overtake us, be our rescue. When weakness overwhelms us, be our strength. Teach us to live day by day, leaning on You, until we are reunited with those we love in Your presence. Remind us that we are not abandoned, but held. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.