As the holiday season approaches rapidly my heart goes to those who may not find the holiday season as enjoyable as they once did. Yes I write from experience. When you face the holidays without a loved one, or a loved one has passed around the holiday season, grief arises at times when you may or may not expect it.

I looked up several definitions of grief. One was deep sorrow. Another definition was an overflow of love and natural emotion. Honestly, I can see that both of those are accurate. Deep sorrow at the loss of one that your heart overflowed with love for.

I do not claim to be an expert on grief. But I have and still do experience grief years after Randy went to join God in heaven. While not an expert – I know it's still hard at times – but I also know that we have a God that loves us and, in those times, (well, all times) God does not leave our side.

So, if you are dealing with loss or even just hard times I want to encourage you with scripture, because truly that is the best way to deal with and work through those hard times.

Soak in God’s promise!!!

Psalms 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Psalms 147:3 "He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds."

Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Matthew 11:28-29 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."

John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

I pray that if you are dealing with a loss or going through hard times that you can hang onto these promises! That you would allow God to comfort you and guide you through. I know these are just a few verses and there are so many more!

I leave you with one final verse to consider as we enter this season.

Romans 12:15 "Rejoice with those who rejoice: mourn with those who mourn."

We can still rejoice in our mourning – we have the hope of Jesus Christ!! Praise God for that.

Glenda