Right From The Heart 1-Minute DevotionsSample

Crisis of Grief

It isn't a pleasant thought, but at various points in life many of the people we love most are going to die -- parents, spouses, friends, siblings, and sometimes, children. The stats on death are 100%. For everyone who lives, death eventually comes. We don't want to think about it, but it's a reality of life.

When it comes, we need to remember the stages of grief -- shock, numbness, denial, anger, depression, and eventually acceptance. In going through the various stages of grief, hold on to these thoughts:

* It's a process; it can't be rushed, but it doesn't last forever.

* With the help of God, it can be a time of growth. If you don't know God, get to know Him.

* Seek the help of others. We all need the support of others to get through it.

* Remember that the first year is the toughest. Don't try to make major decisions right away; give yourself some time.

* If your loved one was a Christian, you can live with the hope that you can see them again. This comes when you also know Christ.

Grief is tough, but with God's help and the help of others, you can make it.