Loss vs. GainSample

Personal Loss

Now that we have the biblical truth before us, let’s take a look at personal loss. Since personal loss in this life is, well, personal. Since God is a personal God, it would make sense that He would provide personal things for His creation when they suffer loss. And He does just that. He provides three very personal things in our situations of personal loss.

First, He provides a Person in His Son, Jesus Christ. The gospel writer, Matthew, records Jesus’ last words to His disciples. Jesus says, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” which is the promise of Christ Himself. He will never leave you nor forsake you. He is always with you to the end of the age, which is eternity. The word “Amen”, means so be it or count on it. In our times of loss, God first gives us His Son, always and for all time.

Second, God provides a purpose. God tells us in Ecclesiastes that there is a time and a season for everything, including loss. There is a time to die, to weep, to break down, to mourn and to lose. Notice though that He also provides a time to be born, to heal, to build up, to laugh, to dance and to gain. God tells us that there will be loss – personal loss – which is part of life. However, He also provides gain, which is also a part of life. In the midst of loss God also provides gain.

Finally, God provides a place. John records Jesus’ words when He said, “Do not be troubled”. Why? Because Christ is with us. His next word is “believe”. To believe is the contrast to a troubled heart. He says, “I go to prepare a place for you… and I will come again to get you… so that where I am you will be.” Jesus Himself has promised an eternal home. Jesus has promised His return, and to be with us forever.

When we experience personal loss in this life, God provides a Person in Jesus. He provides a purpose, that loss and gain are part of His plan on earth. He also provides a place – an eternal home with Jesus. God is with us in our personal loss. That is a promise to hold on to.