Good Grief: Learning to Lament With JobSample

GOOD GRIEF

“I thought I could describe a state; make a matter of sorrow. Sorrow, however, turns out to be not a state, but a process.” C.S. Lewis

Lewis wrote these words in his book “A Grief Observed,” after the death of his beloved wife. In his own journey with grief, he realized it takes time and effort to work through a deep loss.

Grief is unfortunately a universal experience. How we process it and go through it can look different. The events that move us into seasons of grief can look different. It’s important to note that in the context of this plan we’re looking at grief as a loss IN life, not just a loss OF life. For some, the depths of grief might be caused by the death of a loved one, for others, it might be the loss of a job or relationship or a life-altering medical diagnosis. What moves us into grief is unique. As followers of Jesus, we are given a way to work through grief and take our deepest pain, hurts, sorrow, and longings to our Father. It’s called lament.

In his book “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament,” author Mark Vroegop describes lament as a “minor key song”. He further explains that lament is the way Christians grieve. Learning to lament doesn’t change our circumstances, but it can teach us how to process and live with our grief in a biblical way that honors God. We’ll heal and grow through our lamenting. It is good to bring our pain to God. He can handle it.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

Perhaps deep grief is just a memory for you right now. Maybe that season has passed, and the pain of the loss feels different now. Or perhaps your grief is still fresh like a gaping, open wound. Wherever you find yourself at this moment, the Father sees you and loves you. It might be painful to examine your grief and reflect on the circumstances and memories. If you find yourself overwhelmed throughout this plan, please pause and take a moment to talk to the Father. Reach out to someone you trust. We aren’t meant to grieve alone.

Journaling and writing out your thoughts and feelings is a great way to process the hard things of life. This week as you work through this plan use a journal or even the notes app on your phone to write your thoughts as you work through the “Ask Yourself and Journal” section.

Ask Yourself and Journal:

-What is a situation in my life where I grieved?

-How did I feel God’s closeness during that time?

Pause to Pray: Father God, this (insert name of event/situation that has caused you pain and suffering), hurts me so much. I know that I can’t continue without your closeness. Father, I know you’re here with me. Open my heart and mind to receive your care especially when I’m hurting…