Grace to Grieve: After the Loss of a ChildSample

Acknowledge Your Good

It is easy to forget all the positive attributes of ourselves when grief and feelings of shame consume us. 'My body failed me.' This thought resonates with many women who have suffered child loss. You feel shame that this body God created to bring about the miracle and blessing of new life has failed you. You may feel ugly and worthless. I did. Depending on what stage you suffered your loss, you may have even experienced what should have been the joy of an everchanging body created to nourish your child. But now, the thoughts of your ever-changing body only haunt you and add to the mental and emotional trauma of your loss.

Despite if you believe your body has failed you and is the source of your shame—Despite if you believe you are ugly and worthless—Despite if you believe that nothing good is left in your body and all virtue has been depleted, God has made you so wonderfully complex. Not only did He knit you together (Ps. 139:13), He created you in His own image (Gen. 1:26). You are a reflection of our Heavenly Father. You are a work of art fashioned by the Ultimate Creator.

Today, take some time to reflect on one of God's greatest miracles--you. Reflect on the wonders of your body and the miracle and value of your life. Write your good in the form of affirmations (even if it takes several days) and refer to them as needed.

Prayer: Lord, despite what I may feel about myself and about my body, I know that you are the Master Creator. Help me remember that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, masterfully crafted by Your hands. Restore my vision of myself—a vision that I am great, powerful, and, most importantly, valuable. Amen.