To Those Losing a Loved One: The Gradual GoodbyeSýnishorn

When we feel responsible and helpless, hear the Lord whispering to us, “The one you love is Mine."

We don't have to like it or understand it. Trust God and love Him.

When people say, “Be strong…” it doesn’t mean we can’t hurt or wobble during the struggle, but to find our strength in the Lord. This is not just a physical but also a spiritual battle.

The more we fill our mind and heart with God’s promises, the easier it is to go on.

When we wonder why the Lord doesn’t just take our loved one now and avoid further suffering, stay open to all He is doing that we can’t see. Trust His wise and loving plan, and His perfect timing.

Keep your heart open to the special love messages from the Lord to you. Listen for your Shepherd's voice.

Tell them that when Jesus comes to get them, it’s okay. Go with Him, and we will meet them there.

We may not be able to be with them at the exact moment they go, and that's okay. The most important thing we can do is to walk with them as far as we can through the valley and lovingly usher them into the presence of Jesus. 

….and there we will never again say goodbye.

We hope this plan encouraged you as you say your gradual goodbye. Welby O'Brien shares more helpful steps as you walk through grief in her book Goodbye for Now: Practical Help and Personal Hope for Those Who Grieve at http://www.welbyo.com