God created us as complex creatures, capable of feeling and sensing a whole garden of emotions. Made in the image of our Creator, we can both grieve the wrongs of this world, and celebrate the sweetness of this life. This 2-week reading plan will lead us through a series of passages from Scripture that examine the seasons of mourning and dancing in the life of a believer. In the written responses here on the site, our writers will enter into this tension, articulating their personal experiences with grief and joy in hopes of freeing you to explore your own. By immersing our hearts and minds in God’s Word, and honestly presenting our laments to Him, may we remember that God is present with us, He is good, and He is faithful.
On the day our daughter died, I planted flowers.
It was April in Tennessee, and the reality that my child was hanging in a precarious balance between life and death, in part because my womb was acting as her life support, was never far from my mind. That Monday morning, I kissed my husband and weekend guests out the door, then helped my toddler son get dressed and fed him yogurt and Cheerios for breakfast.
Even while death was happening, so was life.
That Monday morning, we blew bubbles. We played on the swing set. I read a book on the back porch, and we snacked on strawberries. When my toddler was fast asleep in his crib, I slipped my hands into a pair of old gardening gloves, knelt in the dirt, and got to work with my spade. Bent over my pregnant belly, hands in the soil, the evidence of life kicked and turned within me. The gravity of the moment was lost on me at the time, but I see it now.
Planting.
Acting on hope.
Believing promises.
Burying seeds in the darkness.
Knowing a thing can only produce something beautiful if it dies first (John 12:24). Ecclesiastes 3 tells us there is a time for every matter under heaven.
A time to be born, and a time to die.
A time to plant, and a time to uproot.
A time to weep, and a time to laugh.
A time to mourn, and a time to dance.
For our precious daughter, that Monday afternoon in April was a time to die. For us, it was a time to mourn. But it was also a time to actively hope in promises that life comes from death. It was a time to dance because our child was in the presence of her Savior.
That day, not knowing what the night would hold, the Lord led me through the motions of actively hoping and believing that death brings life. An object lesson of the resurrection in my soil-covered hands, I could not have known these would be some of the last turns and kicks I’d ever feel. And so, I planted.
Life and death are not respecters of each other. Mourning and dancing—they don’t always take turns. Not in my story, not in yours, not in our world. While people celebrate weddings and first steps and the sweetness of life, the broken world continues to break our hearts, sometimes at the very same time. The tension is there—wondering when to celebrate and when to cry. Often the best thing we can do is acknowledge that tension and do both, seeking the Lord as we navigate the complexities of this world.
We must never stop mourning brokenness. It is right to mourn. And we must never cease to celebrate life and beauty. It is right to dance. Because of Christ, life comes from death. Because of Christ, we will dance again.
“Truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice.
You will become sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy” (John 16:20).
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1,033 thoughts on "A Time to Mourn and a Time to Dance"
A new perspective. I feel guilt when I am confused by outcomes of situations or angry when a prayer isn’t answered the way I thought or if I’ve been moping about something instead of being the joyful believer. But I know now that God wants every part of us. Even the sides that are the not so pretty and joyful. I also know now that it’s okay to feel joy when the world tells us we shouldn’t.
Reading the devotion and your comments make me feel less alone in this season of grief and loss. Thank you for sharing about your daughter and how the Lord is still guiding you through this deep loss. Much love.
We will dance again! I needed to hear this today!
Thank you Raechel for sharing your story. I miscarried a few weeks ago right before Christmas. It was our first pregnancy and we had barely found out we were expecting before we learned we would never meet our baby. I have already been wandering through a desert season with God and feeling lost and abandoned by Him. I know that isn’t true, but I haven’t felt His presence or connected to Him in months so the loss of our little life felt like a another wave pulling me under before I’d gotten my bearings from the last wave. I used to study with She Reads Truth regularly and came back trying to find something to help draw me in again and this study caught my eye. I’m praying God will meet me here.
Praying for you, Natalie. That our Savior would envelop you in His loving arms and wipe away every tear.
My son died shortly after birth. The birth was traumatic with multiple complications. Everything that I feared going wrong, did. It’s been just a little over seven months, and I’m having a hard time finding God in this. I don’t have living children, but I desperately want to have them. My second loss.
Somedays I feel like I’m going through the motions. I know what to do, and I do it. I go to work. I cook dinner. I chat with my coworkers. I do all the things, and then come home and sob. It’s hard for me to envision being happy again. Hoping I can catch glimpses of joy in this study.
I had to put my dog down last week and she was with me for 10 years. And 4 days later my grandpa died. It has felt like every one of my favorite people were leaving me and my heart was breaking. So I hoping this study will help with the feeling of guilt and feeling alone.
My dad died last week. I am also struggling with
Needing this Devo a lot right now. My husband and I are newly married (about three months) and I am preparing to say goodbye to him for 10 months for Basic Military training as well as Tech School. It will be the longest we have ever been a part and affectively means we will spend our first months of marriage thousands of miles apart. I am heart broken. While I do not mourn death, I am preparing to be separated from my other half at a time we need each other most. Reading in 1 Peter this morning “in this you rejoice, so that the tested genuineness of your faith – more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire – may be found to result in praise and glory” is what I have been needing to hear from the Lord. This trial, though a test of our faith in God and love for one another, will only develop in us strength and love much richer than before. So thankful for this devotional. ❤️
Beautiful I love the idea of a garden and planting and just the life and death.
Only with God are we able to see life out of pain. We are not alone. God mourns with us when we lose a loved one and celebrates with us the fact that we will see them one day in heaven being reunited with family and the Lord together.
I love this though of joy and life happening even though there’s pain… that God is in it all and he isn’t afraid of our messes.
This is only the first day and I can already feel a weight coming off of my heart. My best friend, and best person I’ve ever known, passed away in a car accident two months ago. I’ve been struggling with grief but I feel hopeful that God can give me peace through this study ❤️
My husband convinced me to go to church one more time. Durning that service I begged God to be the one to take my baby and not force me to do it. I couldn’t afford the D&C and I would have to have that constant reminder. I begged in prayer and he answered. It was a traumatic night but my baby passed naturally. That Monday we got the clean ultrasound showing no tissue and no baby. While my heart was hurting I was also given relief because I was no longer a walking casket for my first child with my husband. Later that Monday I asked my husband if we could make our baby and we did. My baby Lael fully belonged to God. I will never know why God took Lael from us but there will always be apart of our heart meant for them.
I needed this.. I lost my baby too… for weeks my body held on to the baby when it should have let go. The weekend before I was to a D&C to remove the baby I broke. I was angry. I hated God and everyone around me.
God is so good! I have been going through a similar situation and it’s so sweet this is the first study I picked up. Thank you for sharing!
Last summer two close friends died, about two months apart. Then just before Christmas my grandma died. A week ago my mother. It took a year before I didn’t feel so much pain from the grief of losing one of my friends. We texted daily then she was just gone. I’ve lost my mother in the same way, both from brain aneurysms. My heart is so heavy and I am struggling so much. Everyone reminds me that immense grief comes from immense love, but right now I’m not sure it’s helpful. I miss her so much. I know God is keeping me and my family from drowning in our grief, I hope through this study I’ll continue to see His strength during this difficult time.
Courtney, I’m so sorry for your loss. I just lost my mom and, like you, I can’t imagine my life without her. I never knew grief could be this painful. Sending you prayers. May God comfort us as we navigate through this time.
Thanks for always sharing such truths!!! Reminding us of the Greatest Truth of All
Thank You for always sharing such truths!! And reminding us of the greatest Truth of All!!!
Thanks for always sharing such T
Thank you for sharing this. I’ve been struggling with trusting God since we lost our baby and this has helped me let go of that fear and anger.
Reading day one made me feel not alone. I recently lost my mother July 6th, 2022. I bought this book a long time ago, and recently remembered I had books in my bag. I didn’t think anything of it until I read it. God knows exactly what we need, when we think we won’t need it.
Excited to dive into this study! Prayers for everyone.
There’s nothing better than God.
He turns graves into gardens…mourning to dancing.
There’s nothing better than God.
My papa just joined our Savior on Thursday afternoon. The moments with family we spend laughing and thinking of all the wonderful memories we created with him. And in the silence, I break. I can’t imagine life without him by my side but he with exactly where he wants to be. My kids are mourning and they’re so young and their papa was their world. Hearing their pain creates a whole new level of pain that I can’t handle. God has paved the path to our healing we’re just trying to navigate it.
I just miscarried our last baby two days ago, and I will be celebrating my brother’s birthday in a few days. It is such a hard juxtaposition of emotions, but I related so much with this first reading and am embracing the freedom to both mourn and dance in this season. I am so comforted by my Jesus and His presence near me in all of these ups and downs.
There is a time for everything and either way , he will still be there and stay faithful
Learning to do both is not easy. But I’m working on it.
Needed this encouragement today as I navigate mourning a miscarriage of my first baby a few months ago and the difficulty of getting pregnant again, but also being joyful of the life God is creating in others and hopeful that he will bless me with a child again in the future.
I found out that I was pregnant with our first child on December 9, 2021 and started a long and traumatic miscarriage process on December
I had a second trimester loss three weeks ago and am still very much in the throes of grief. However, my first son turns 1st birthday is tomorrow and so this weekend, we celebrate him. I mourn his brother and dance for my baby’s birthday.
My husband and I found out last week that we had miscarried our first precious baby. While it’s a season of mourning, we also rejoice in the hope of eternity and seeing our precious baby angel again.
I lost a baby in January. I just recently found out I’m pregnant again. I’m in the odd place of mourning a child, but being thankful for the new life that grows. There is a time for everything.
** lost my first child at 10 weeks along. This message speaks to me in such a dark time right now.
I found out I was pregnant Feb1just lost my first
Thankful I’m starting this plan right now. Where I am in life right now, this is so fitting. ❤️
Starting the year with the expectation and knowledge that it will bring both mourning and dance. 2021 was hard and beautiful and I know 2022 holds the same. Trying to dig in to my faith and find comfort and purpose here
Just lost my best friend. Sitting here at 12 am on New Years not sure how to start this year. My wedding is in a few months and now my maid of honor is gone and I’m already struggling with my dad not being able to walk me down the aisle too. I’m glad God brought me to this devotion at this very moment. He knew what I needed to start this year.
I am so excited to start this plan. The perfect devotional for these times ♥️
I lost my grandmother, I find her in psalms every time that I open the scripture
My mother died from Covid-19 seven months ago. I’ve been devastated. She had just come to live with us two months before, and she and I had so many plans to do together. I feel cheated of time with her by Covid. I needed this reading today. I need to realize that it’s okay to mourn and to dance. It may take awhile to get to the dancing part, but I know this only lasts for a season.
I lost my mom, in March 2013. She had lived with us for 21 years and to be honest I was at peace with her passing. She left a hole in our hearts but she was so tired of the battle she was fighting. It was a blessing for her and for my grandchildren and kids. They learned death wasn’t to be feared. Since then I have lost about 15 people. My dad, stepmom, uncle, mother-in-law, my great niece, my son-in-laws grandparents, 6 friends and the biggest was my husband. I tell you this because I went on autopilot. I was never angry, I just kept moving forward. Being busy kept me sane. When my husband, of 29 years, passed people told me I was angry with God but that wasn’t true. Although he died unexpectedly I realized he was sicker than he told me. Finally God started taking me on a journey of recovery. I didn’t know how to be a 1 after being a 2 for so many years. A had to learn a new normal. I did ok until I was challenged to surrender Chuck to God. Then I lost it. What I discovered was I was afraid to do that because if he was gone then I might disappear because we were so connected. I am okay with it now (after 4 years). In two weeks God and I will hold our first meeting of Women of Heart, A Journey Through Grief. I am very excited. I can breathe again.
I lost my mom, in March 2013. She had lived with us for 21 years and to be honest I was at peace with her passing. She left a hole in our hearts but she was so tired of the battle she was fighting. It was a blessing for her and for my grandchildren and kids. They learned death wasn’t to be feared. Since then I have lost about 15 people. My dad, stepmom, uncle, mother-in-law, my great niece, my son-in-laws grandparents, 6 friends and the biggest was my husband. I tell you this because I went on autopilot. I was never angry, I just kept moving forward. Being busy kept me sane. When my husband, of 29 years, passed people told me I was angry with God but that wasn’t true. Although he died unexpectedly I realized he was sicker than he told me.
I just started this study because I have tried to handle my grief of loosing my husband 2 years ago Halloween without any help. We were married 46 years. I have prayed. But I kinda blamed God. I didn’t loose my faith, but I just didn’t feel like I should. I have been healing my faith and trust with God through SRT studies and I am feeling blessed by God with all He does in my life. I just feel that I need to understand more about mourning and my grief.
I lost my fiancé not even two months ago & I must say this devotional is speaking to me tonight. ❤️
December 2020 my grandfather passed away, at the same time that was happening, My father got COVID-19 just as badly as you could get it. He was intubated the day before my grandpas funeral, and the day of my grandpas funeral, a whole other side to my father we didn’t ever know began to unravel and come out in his absence. Infidelity. My father was intubated for 17 days, in long term care for much longer. That January, I also became engaged. My husband asked my mom and siblings permission to marry me, and even though I didn’t want it at the time, he didn’t get to ask my dad. Something we’d always dreamed about. The last thing I said to my dad before he was intubated was that he better get better because I was pretty sure I was going to have a wedding in 2021 and he needed to walk me down the aisle. We’d always dreamt of that and the father daughter dance. Now I was faced with the reality he might not even be at my wedding, and even if he could be, I wasn’t sure I wanted him there. I could go on about the massive heartbreaks that were happening in the short months leading up to our wedding, but suffice it to say I deeply know the feeling of walking in the time of dancing and mourning at the same time. There’s much healing left to happen, but I’m so thankful the Lord knows we sometimes need the greatest joy in the deepest heartbreak, because we otherwise might not be able to make it through.
December 2020 my grandfather passed away, at the same time that was happening, My father got COVID-19 just as badly as you could get it. He was intubated the day before my grandpas funeral, and the day of my grandpas funeral, a whole other side to my father we didn’t ever know began to unravel and come out in his absence. Infidelity. My father was intubated for 17 days, in long term care for much longer. That January, I also became engaged. My husband asked my mom and siblings permission to marry me, and even though I didn’t want it at the time, he didn’t get to ask my dad. Something we’d always dreamed about. The last thing I said to my dad before he was intubated was that he better get better because I was pretty sure I was going to have a wedding in 2021 and he needed to walk me down the aisle. We’d always dreamt of that and the father daughter dance. Now I was faced with the reality he might not even be at my wedding, and even if he could be, I wasn’t sure I wanted him there. I could go on about the massive heartbreaks that were happening in the short months leading up to our wedding, but suffice it to say I deeply know the feeling of walking in the time of dancing and mourning at the same time. There’s much healing kedt
December 2020 my grandfather passed away, at the same time that was happening, My father got COVID-19 just as badly as you could get it. He was intubated the day before my grandpas funeral, and the day of my grandpas funeral, a whole other side to my father we didn’t ever know began to unravel and come out in his absence. Infidelity. My father was intubated for 17 days, in long term care for much longer. That January, I also became engaged. My husband asked my mom and siblings permission to marry me, and even though I didn’t want it at the time, he didn’t get to ask my dad. Something we’d always dreamed about. The last thing I said to my dad before he was intubated was that he better get better because I was pretty sure I was going to have a wedding in 2021 and he needed to walk mw
❤️
Amen.
I am coming back to this study. My straight forward response is I need to just to catch up on some of the studies I left behind. In truth is the anniversary, the month I lost my dad. I met my dad on his death bed. It’s been 19 years of mourning, of what if’s, if heart shattering, crying and screaming at God. Why? Why should my family get to suffer? Why do I have to fight an endless battle. Now I am seeing why, seeing what the good lord prepared me
I am coming back to this study. My straight forward response is I need to just to catch up on some of the studies I left behind. In truth is the anniversary, the month I lost
We lost our daughter February of this year to stillbirth. We know that joy will come again. Thank you for this study. We know God is giving us this season of mourning and we know dancing will come soon.
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I lost my father in March after a short and devastating battle with cancer. We found out about his terminal diagnosis 2 weeks after I shared I was expecting his first grandchild. She is now 7 weeks old. Not having him physically here is a void I can feel deep in my heart. But I know that I feel it so deeply because of the love, because of the joy we shared. I know he would be so in love with this gift, our beautiful and healthy girl.
We fostered a little girl for over two years. We got her at 10mo. She left our home a few weeks ago and the same week we were told she was leaving, we were asked to take in another sibling group. We didn’t want to. Our hearts were breaking. I didn’t feel like I had anything left to give. I prayed. I prayed for clarity and answers. The message was clear. We took the boys and said goodbye to our sweet girl. I miss her so much. Some days the pain feels too hard to deal with but God is greatest and He knows best.
My mom died in a car fire in January, two weeks ago I lost my grandma (mom) and one week ago I lost my moms boyfriend whose been in our life for seven years. This year has been full of loss, but I’m learning to find my faith and peace in GOD.
I lost my dad 2.5 weeks ago. This is the hardest and newest journey I’ve dealt with and I have no idea where to go. It’s like God is my only source in this and He’s placing the right people in my life for this. I’m glad my dad gave his whole life to Jesus a week before his death it just hurts so much as the weeks go by life gets harder.
My mother died just over a month ago. She was young, her death unexpected, and our relationship strained and fraught with trauma. It has been a difficult season of mourning. But in the midst of that, I have 4 children of my own who need cared for. We celebrated two birthdays during this time of mourning. This tension of mourning and dancing together in the same time and space is sometimes more than I can bear. But it is also full of healing.
We lost our son 4 weeks ago. I miss him every day. I’m so thankful he is with his Creator who loves him, but I can’t help but wish he were here with us.
This. As I continue my journey on planet earth, having lost my youngest child 9 years ago, these words fill my soul with the peace and permission I need to be ok with doing earthly things such as tearing up at someone else’s child’s wedding. It’s ok to celebrate that child while mourning my own. I so needed this.
Loving this study
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This completely changed the way I view life and death, mourning and dancing, so intertwined.
Praying for everyone, I’m so glad we all have a place to come! So thankful for that.
Lord please heal me and reveal to me when it’s time to plant and time to uproot, time to tear down and time to build.
I turned 31 this year and my heart also is aching from hopes differed. My life is not what I thought or hoped it would be. My sister in Christ all I can say is you are not alone. You are not forgotten and you are loved. I wrote your name down in my journal so I will pray for you.
I Iost my mom a week ago tomorrow. I am 30 weeks pregnant with my first child, a baby girl. For everything there is a season, I am still in the thick of the numbness and sadness but it gives me hope to know that with strength from God I will be able to both grieve this loss and celebrate the beautiful life I am bringing into the world. Where there is death there is life. I have prayed that God show me the way to heal and he has done so by leading me here.
I lost my dad a month ago and everyday I wake up thinking today it’s going to hurt a little less that never happens but every time I get overwhelmed with the emotions I ask God to give me divine peace, comfort and strength so I can get through it and I see Him…and His grace.
I have been struggling with anxiety and loss for the past years. I didn’t realise until recently that I needed healing from this. It has been hard keeping closer to God but I keep pressing on. I know he never left my side. His promises will never fail.
I just know I’m gonna love this plan! I must share and admit that I’ve done my fair share of mourning and fair share of grieving. Recently in late 2020 my grandfather passed away…he was old and it was his time to go and he was suffering and wanted the suffering to stop so he passed. I know now that that’s what was best for him but in that very moment I didn’t think that….in fact I felt angry and revengeful. I didn’t even stop to think about how he had lost everyone in his life but me and my sister’s. When I realized this I felt so guilty but he talked to me and I finally felt a since of relief. Since his death was so recent I don’t see me dancing yet but rather still mourning. I hope by the time I’m done reading this plan and doing what I need to do I can finally start dancing to his death. If you see this grandad I want you to know I love you so much and so glad you’re no longer suffering :)
Thirty-three days ago, I comforted my Mommy as she made her transition from mortal to immortality and I am still in deep sadness and mourning. This study has come just in time because I’m due to return to work in two weeks. Life must go on but it is hard. I look forward to God’s healing.
Yes!!
Still mourning and lamenting the death of my father, who after receiving a life-saving heart and double lung transplant, died 2 weeks later of sepsis…God had never been so obviously present in hearing our prayers and pleas and fasting to provide an absolute miracle during a pandemic, only to feel so absent as if we had been abandoned just a few days later…it was an unbelievable rollercoaster of ups and downs for months as we prayed and fasted for him to stay alive to make it to transplant, his transplant surgeon got COVID which meant no offers as long as he was sick, and then to get such a rare transplant during the pandemic, so many doctors and nurses testified to the absolute miracle that had taken place, yet he died 2 weeks later…still trying to find the silver lining because it feels like we were sucker-punched, blindsided…the most difficult thing about grief as a Christian is to know the truth in your head, yet feel something completely different in your heart
Kathryn-praying now for you and the heaviness you feel. May God give you strength and use you in this place! I am also a nurse, dealing with life/death. My heartbreak in life is watching my husband fight cancer and all the side effects of chemo. Being a care taker is exhausting also
Emily, so sorry to read of your loss. It’s okay to be sad. It’s okay to wonder why and not understand. I pray God will fill you with strength and peace until the day you get to see her again.
I am a brand new nurse in a high-acuity ICU. I see pain and death everyday I walk through our hospital doors. It has weighed heavily on me. I am so glad I found this study. Jesus gives me the strength to grieve, hope, and go back day after day.
I will turn 31 tomorrow and my heart aches with unmet expectations. This is not what I thought my life would look like.
I also turned 31 at the beginning of this year. My heart aches with hopes deferred. My life is not what I planned it would be. All I can say is You Are Not Alone. You are not forgotten and you are loved. I wrote your name down in my journal so I can remember to pray for you.
My dad passed away in July. I still find myself overcome with sadness and brokenness 5 months later. There are more good days than bad days now, but not a day goes by that my heart still doesn’t hurt from the loss. I am so glad I’ve found this study!
2020 has been a year of loss for me. The impact of Covid-19 seems minor compared to the other grief and loss I’ve experienced. And, like she said, mourning and dancing do not always take turns. It has been a HARD last 4 months. My marriage… my youngest son… uncertainty in pregnancy after 2 other miscarriages… and then my dad passing away suddenly from a stroke the week before Thanksgiving…
Yet, even now I am pregnant and about to have a baby in February.
God, as I start this study, please help me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation… help me to continually trust You amidst this storm. I can see I am not alone. That is comforting. Please, God, I humbly ask for Your mercy.
I lost my dad two weeks ago. I have had to push my grief aside to help my mother who is deep in grief after losing her husband of 52 years. My spirit needs this study. I am comforted in knowing that even when I cannot vocalize the grief, my Jesus knows, and He is interceding on my behalf.
I am so sorry for your loss, Adrienne. I am here for similar reasons. It is good to know we are not alone.
I’m glad I found this study. My mom passed 18 years ago on Thanksgiving, and I still struggle with celebrating the holiday knowing she’d want me to focus on the good, yet feeling her loss. It actually seems to get harder as the years go by.
Praying for your heart to be content within the Lord’s loving kindness tonight.
Praying for everyone in grief and mourning. You’re seen.
I am just now listening to this study on the podcast and you referred to a lamenting worksheet. Where can I find that?
praying for everyone. i am grieving the lost of an old friend.
I lost my son to an overdose in March. I’m struggling each day. It will be six months in a few days and I’m broken. He was only 26. I am still numb from it all and I don’t know how to push through and find joy anymore.
Oh Trudi I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. What you’re describing sounds very normal for grief. The numbness. I don’t know if you need to push through. It’s ok to grieve and mourn and as time goes on and you have moments to catch your breath in between grief and pain, the joy moments can start appearing again. I don’t think mourning and dancing can’t exist in the same moment and it’s ok to feel broken when you suffer such a big loss. Praying for you and that when you can catch a joy glimpse, it can sustain you for the moment when the grief hits yet again.
My mom passed away very suddenly March 2019. I’m so hurt and sad over the lack of understanding of grief as a Christian. I have been told about all the things I should be grateful for or had people telling me God is using this to teach me a lesson. This whole experience has hurt my relationship with God and this study is already such a balm. I want all of you other grieved ones out there to know God is a God of love and He has defeated death and there isn’t any lesson you that you had to have that means your mom (insert your loved one) had to die so you could. If anyone need love and support or any resources or encouragement during this time please don’t hesitate to reply to this message. ❤️❤️❤️
I needed this today. Tomorrow will be the 5 year anniversary of my moms passing. This has given me comfort that I so needed
This was much needed. Praying for others as well who are mourning and that their mourning turns to joy. ❤️
I lost my grandma few years back to colon cancer. I took care off her while on hospice. I was with her in final moments. I felt such emptiness knowing my best friends was gone. I miss her everyday. However, she was in so much pain and I know she is pain free with our savior. I miss her everyday and even more on the special moments in my life.
I lost a dear friend of mine over the weekend. I do not have much experience with loss through death and have really struggled with her sudden departure. I know she is safely in the arms of Jesus and no longer suffering. I hope this study will help my heart heal.
Thank you for this reading. I am grieving the loss of my Dad. He took his life 11 days ago and we are devastated. This brings me comfort as I (we) mourn.
A dear friend, and wife of our pastor just lost her daughter at just under 22 weeks gestation. In seeking wisdom in mourning with her and her husband this study is truly an answer to prayer.
I might be the only guy but as someone who has seen the vanity of life and how frail it is. I am going to enjoy this study. The world is grieving right now as it’s changing and has changed so much.
I have been struggling deeply with some depression and anger and anxiety lately. I know I need to keep pressing towards Jesus and I know his love is in the mourning and the dancing. It is a tough season right now.
I just lost our son, I was 16 weeks pregnant and the surgery that was supposed to be what saved him, killed him. I heard his heart all the way till that last moment. I’m struggling, there were so many unknowns. But leaning into God is what is helping me. I’m hoping this plan will guide me to all the places in the bible I can turn to on the really bad days.
I’ve been battling depression for years and this past year, it has seemed like it all came crashing down on me. I’m mourning the loss of hope right now. Some days it’s there and clear, some days I’m grasping for it in the dark. This study will hopefully help me in knowing that God loves me, is with me, and understands my feelings. I am not alone and one day, all this pain will make sense.
I’m a high school senior who is graduating in two days. I am mourning my senior year and everything that comes along with it, but I am celebrating a big accomplishment in my life. This helped me understand that it is okay for me to feel both, and to trust God in where he is taking me and how he has chosen this grievance for me. Thank you!
I lost my older brother in December and am still struggling with it, this plan will hopefully help me to see that good things can come from terrible pain.
My grandma was sent home on hospices with days to live. This study is helping me through this time
My husband and I have been walking in our infertility for four years now with two losses along the way. There are seasons where we diligently “try” and others where it is not in the forefront of my mind. We’re currently in a time of diligence and it is HARD to remain hopeful and upbeat. I’m eager to dive into this study and be reminded of God’s good promises.
This all sounds very difficult. Prayers for you today.
Thanks for sharing your story. My husband died unexpectedly at 35 last year. I miss him and am still mourning. I also love my life and feel so blessed. God has been so faithful to me! It is hard to explain to others or even process myself that grief and joy can co-exist. It can be overwhelming. I’m glad there are others who understand how I feel.
I had a miscarriage last month that has rocked me to my core. I am here to lament the death of my daughter and to begin to see some hope from Him.
As I was looking through these plans, my heart caught a bit when I saw the title. This week, I know of two children who made their way to the Father, in my mind, far too soon. As a mother myself, I think this is the biggest fear of my life and I continue to fight it and give, regive and give again the precious children He entrusted to me for however they or I am here. There is a time to mourn…and rejoice. I’m grateful this study was here.
During this year (2020) everyone is going through their own storms! While my husband and I are as well with his father we are joyful with the purchase of our new home! This study guide is so fitting for what we are going through! So happy to dig deeper!
Thank you for your words, Jessie. I often feel that I am too mourning a mother who is alive. It is both strange and painful. The feel like that God brought me this plan right when I needed it for more reasons beyond the pandemic. I pray that the Lord brings you healing through this plan that I hope to also find.
I have been wrestling with my past issues and mourning a relationship that, by no lacking of trying to preserve, has been ended. I’m mourning a mother that is still alove on this Earth. And it breaks my heart.
I believe this study will transform my heart.
Day 1 and I am already crying healing tears.
So perfect for me today – my heart needed this ❤️
I’m amazed at the timeliness of this study. I’ve wrestled between the realities of mourning and dancing through this new season we’re all walking through during this pandemic. However, through God’s word today I have a strange sense of excitement to see how God will move us to be in awe of him. I’m grateful to know him as comforter and am praying for courage to follow his spirit through the unknown of what’s ahead.
Perfect timing for this…mourn my grades is ok..mourn my lost job is ok…
I lost my grandma going on 5 years ago. She was my best friend. I was with her when she passed in a very heart wrenching scene. I’ve never fully processed it to the point to giving it to God. I am going to work through these emotions during this next two weeks. I know it is going to be a life long process though.
I lost my grandparents when I was a young woman like you. With time God truly does turn the mourning into dancing. He replaces the pain of loss with wonderfully sweet memories and a deep gratitude that I was blessed to have such wonderful people in my life. I don’t feel sadness when I think of them, I feel joy and know that I will see them again. I prayed that this transition will happen soon for you before I posted this.
I love God’s perfect timing and how starting this study came at just the right time. I mourn for all the lives lost during this pandemic. The jobs lost. The social distancing and not getting to see family, friends, fellow church members. But I rejoice as well. God has given us time to reflect on what’s important, to draw near to Him and pour out our hearts. This time has made me grateful for so much. My job—both the ability to work from home and gracious compensation from my company. My apartment. My roommate. Modern technology that allows us to connect with so many loved ones from afar. “Sorrowful, yet rejoicing.”
This is exactly what I’ve been needing to read. Thank you for sharing this with us, and I’m already excited to continue this reading plan tomorrow.
I originally bought this study years ago to approach my grief with losing my dad suddenly. I have yet to work through it. I come this morning also mourning my marriage that seems inevitable to fail again (we were married once before, divorced, and reconciled… only to be here again). I am weary and broken and desperate for peace and healing.
I’m walking a path very similar. My marriage is over and I am lost and wondering when the mourning will turn to dancing. Praying for strength for you, Rachel. He will hold us up and walk with us through this time.
Today, in the midst of what we thought was a routine hospital stay for low blood counts, my husband’s oncologist told us that our last possible chemotherapy treatment had failed and that my husband (at 23 years old) is effectively chemo resistant with no options for surgery or radiation. We are completely broken, but in the midst of it all, I keep returning to how loving and faithful God is and how no matter the outcome he will see us through. I keep thanking God for sharing my husband with us and asking him to move mountains if his time with us is not up yet. Today, was a earth shattering day. But I was also in awe of the amazing hospital staff God brought into our lives who have cared for and loved us countless times over the past 2 years. 8 nurses came by our room to give us hugs and tell us how much they love us and that they are praying for us. Through this experience God has given me a taste of the bittersweet joy that you can encounter in the midst of tragedy. So today we grieve, but tomorrow, we will pick ourselves back up again, continue to praise God for all he does for us, and continue to believe in faith for another day. Came to SRT today to bolster my faith, and stumbled across this study, which is right where I’m at.
Can’t imagine what you are going through. But I know our Lord is holding you and mourning with you. May you be overwhelmed by his light in this darkness and his love in your deepest brokenness. May he fill you with the hope and knowledge that eternity awaits us all.
So good. We must never cease mourning brokenness but also never cease celebrating beauty. I needed this in my season
I am mourning my marriage. It’s not over but after 13 years and many trials ..it’s in the trenches & were having to work hard right now to get it back. With 3 babes, life seems heavy, so I am mourning the happiness in my home. Praying to find peace with this Devo while my heart and marriage is healing
So happy I found this…I truly need this study after my 2019. My brother passed away in may and my family was, and still is heartbroken. My mother took it the worse, which didn’t do her cancer any good, it made it so much worse. After selling her home (my childhood home) and both of us moving into my grandmothers home (before I left for college) she had decided that she didn’t want to be poked and prodded with any kind of treatments any more. And in October she passed away while I was holding her hand…I miss her so very much but I know she is not suffering any more and is dancing with and in the presence of our savior. Everyday is hard missing my brother, and my mother who was my best friend, but I get through one step at a time with God.
This was so needed. I purchased this study two years ago while my mom was passing and I finally had the courage to read it today. ❤️
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I needed this ❤️
Thank you. I’m navigating the painful road of separation and divorce, along with single parenting. Sometimes it feels like everyone around me is celebrating a marriage, a new baby, a promotion, a new house…
This is encouraging that God sits with us in our pain.
I really needed this today. I am struggling with self harm and depression.. this gave me a little bit of hope. Thank you. Also please pray for me ❤️❤️❤️
Praying for your Seaira. May the God of mourning and dancing bring you comfort, and peace.
Praying for you. Thank you for sharing. ❤️
Just download this app and this was the first thing I see…. my best friend of 20 years committed suicide in September and this is exactly what I need
This is a timely study for me right now. I have, as any person who lives, does, experience mourning and dancing both. But right now I’m asking God to help me have a real heart for the lost while not focusing on that and allowing me to feel like it’s okay to be joyful as well.
Praising God that we aren’t alone in these struggles. Mourning sometimes feeling like you are on a really sad lonely island but after reading your comments I am so aware that we are in this together! Praying for you all today! Thankful for a Savior to makes things beautiful in His time!
I am so glad I found this website and this stud in particular. My mom died very suddenly last January 26th. With the 1st anniversary of her death next weekend, I hope to gain strength from this study. I know she is with Jesus, so I have peace but miss her so very much.
When my mother died I felt the same way
With diagnoses of chronic infections and increasing allergies, it has been a time of mourning for a few years. In the last few months I have been forced to slow down and start being more present in my life, and it has given me a look into the reasons I also have to dance amongst all of this suffering. At times, I’m able to enjoy spending time with my family and hoping for the future, and at other times I feel the weight of hidden illness and life threatening symptoms always sitting in waiting in the shadows and cry out to God in anguish and fear. I hope to find more hope through this study.
Hurting with some recent not great news from our doctor about trying to conceive but we still have hope and faith that God will fill our hearts. I have no doubt that this desire in my heart isn’t just there to be there. I’m going to mourn, thank God for this trial and keep praying for a miracle. I know he will provide.
I lost my sister to cancer a month ago…. she believed in the Lord so that gives me a little peace…. I still can’t believe she is gone. My heart is weary from trying to understand….. I know His ways our not our own, but still the loss is still there.
My heart breaks for you, Trudy. Thank you for sharing. I believe one of our greatest responsibilities as believers is to pray for those who are hurting and our greatest privilege is to dance with those who celebrate, even friends we haven’t met yet .
Prayers for all of you ❤️
We lost our 5 year-old granddaughter on October 22..
I thought my heart would not survive the grief. But, here we all are…. still mourning, but not devastated beyond repair. God is Good – even in the darkest of valleys… His loving light still finds us. She now dances in His presence, free. We mourn and rejoice and wait for our time to see her whole – for the very first time.
♥️♥️♥️
i never used to think i would be okay after my best friend passed away on january 7, 2017… 4 days after my 15th birthday. she wasn’t even 16. people told me it would be okay, and they said it would get better… but no one in the midst of grief wants to hear that. i didn’t believe it… i thought i would be depressed forever. but almost 3 years later, i can say that it has gotten better, at least a little. i feel happy & full of joy that she’s in such a perfect place with the creator of the universe by her side. so many miracles have happened since she passed & of course i miss her more than anything, but seeing beauty come from ashes really gives me hope & sureness that there is a God & he provides, always. i’m here to say that, even though it doesn’t feel like it at all, it will be okay. you will heal, you will travel through every stage of grief over & over, but if you truly lean on God & desire his goodness, you will get through it. merry christmas ❤️
God knows what we need. My husband and I are going through a season of sorrow— not from loss of life, but a lost connection with one another. My emotions this Christmas season have been all of the place, but I find comfort in the reminder that it is ok to have a tension of feelings. I am thankful for this devotional today. I needed to hear that it’s ok to be mourn and find joy at the same time.
I have turned away from my usual daily devotions for the last six months. My first love died by suicide in June, just an hour after calling me asking if I could meet up, but I was at work and had no idea what was going on. We broke up 7 years ago after I had an abortion, but still remained close friends and familial with one another. Truly, we were soulmates, but young and inexperienced at life when tragedy (though admittedly self inflicted, though I have to say despite any backlash I may receive – it was the right choice for us). A week after, the man I thought I would actually spend my life with broke things off after seeing the heartache the death caused.
I turned away from the Lord in how angry, sad, and distraught I was.
Today, I was called past the annual Christmas advent to instead find this plan. And though it has already broken me in just the first page, I find healing in the brokenness. The Lord sat with me this morning and told me that indeed, my sorrow will turn to joy, but to take my heart and place it in His hands once more.
Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
John 13:7
Hi sweet Valerie, thank you for sharing your story. In Matt 18:12-14 Jesus says that God goes after the 1. I believe all of heaven was celebrating you giving your heart to Jesus again. ✨
I am in a season of deep grief. We found out at our 20 week ultrasound that our sweet baby girl will not survive for more than a few hours at most when she is born. We prayed and prayed for this pregnancy and then to feel like the Lord is taking her from me is so painful. We are now in a season of waiting for her birth (I’m 27 weeks now) and still Praying that God will somehow redeem this intense pain for His glory. Hoping this study will bring some peace to our anxious souls.
I just read your comment and felt compelled strongly to stop and pray for you and your sweet daughter. Not sure what is currently going on in your pregnancy but know that people are lifting you up in prayers.
Praying for you!
6 months ago my husband lost his best friend and my close friend from an accident. . He was a great friend and was only 25. One month ago I lost my grandfather, one of the best men I’ve ever known. I pray that this study brings healing to many hearts, including my own. May the God of peace Himself give you all peace.
I lost my dear friend and pastor a couple weeks ago and I had a miscarriage a few months ago. Earlier this year I lost my step dad. This has been the most painful year of my life. It’s amazing how I find myself reaching out to God as nothing else satisfies or brings comfort. (Cookies only help so much…)
I have put off reading this plan because I’m in a season of serious mourning, lamenting, and depression. My husband and I have tried to conceive for 4 years, and even begun the foster adoption process, but after so many roadblocks and steps backwards in the process, we chose to put things on hold…maybe permanently, maybe temporarily. While I feel relief from the weight of stress it has lifted from our marriage, I am for the first time grieving my empty womb, and the still empty crib in the nursery we prayed over and decorated in anticipation of bringing children home this year. I keep praying for peace and that I can enjoy life right now, rather than dwell on what has not happened yet…or ever. That He’d turn my mourning into dancing. That God is enough and I’m satisfied in Him.
When I first saw the advertisements for this study, I knew it was something my heart needed, but I have been putting off getting started bc I knew the tender wounds it would unveil. This April, we welcomed our first child after years of praying, and in August I lost my mother to brain cancer that none of us saw coming. I find myself stuck between celebrating this new and exciting time in my life that I’ve longed for for years, and grieving that I’m not getting to experience this with my mom. This holiday season feels especially daunting knowing we will be celebrating these firsts with my son, and the firsts without her. Morning and dancing all at once. Im so thankful for the timing of this study and looking forward to digging into His word as these two seasons in my life collide.
Very much so what I needed to here since the passing of my father I have been in a rut.
I’m thankful for this study already, just beginning day 1. I have been in a season of just beginning to realize I have been mourning a past relationship in my life. It’s hard to live in the tension of letting go & hoping for more. Knowing that this pain won’t last forever. I’m thankful for the promises of Gods word & that those who mourn will be comforted. I’m praying for the strength to press on and know there is joy coming.
This reading plan came at the right point in my life, coming off from the heels of my grandmother’s death this year and my mother’s death back in 2017. Now, for the time to dance part is my having my son back in 2018. I often feel like after death -> something rises from the ashes. Either birth of someone new and/or marriage, engagement. It shows that from Christ we will be able to dance again. Reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 reminds me of my grandmother’s funeral. We need to praise God and his goodness. In the podcast – we are reminded that God doesn’t change – he remains the same.
This reading plan came at the right point in my life, coming off from the heels of my grandmother’s death this year and my mother’s death back in 2017. Now, for the time to dance part is my having my son back in 2018. I often feel like after death -> something rises from the ashes. Either birth of someone new and/or marriage, engagement. It shows that from Christ we will be able to dance again. Reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 reminds me of my grandmother’s funeral. We need to praise God and his goodness. In the podcast – we are reminded that God doesn’t change – he remains the same.
God has given our family hope. Our story turned out differently than the author, yet I still fear for my medically complex child. I think, does she look blue today? Did she get her meds? I still fear we could easily end up in the hospital over a fever. I fear those words, “She needs surgery.” God is helping me trust him and I returned to work for the first time in three years and Hannah loves her babysitters. She is going to preschool which is something I feared she would never get to do. God has been so faithful!
I’m not sure if I am mourning, by recently my uncle has decided to take a different direction when it comes to his relationship with God and we will no longer have him around on holidays. I pray with this study, I am able to feel a sense of happiness with this dark time
Today, I am praising God. I am dancing with Him. A few days ago, I was not. I god some very discouraging news from an ultrasound. But, through my Doctor, God has given me hope for things still ahead. He is always bigger and His provision is always there…even if it is not immediately apparent. Even if it’s for things yet to come and something I may not understand today.
As I read I am so moved by all of your testimony’s of love, grief, hope and faith. You are all beautiful examples of what mourning and dancing means. I am thankful for you all and dedicated to pray for you today ❤️ you are truly leaving a godly legacy to your families
Thank you for this. I have been blessed with so much dancing in my life.
A very close friend of the family, someone I’ve always considered to be a second father to me, was just diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. I’m still processing the news.
Perfect timing. I was just (I know) introduced to the idea of letting “opposite” emotions exist at the same time. What a beautiful thing it is too!
So beautifully written Raechel, true insight into what God intended for us with his words during this season of mourning and continuing to live❤️
A much needed read this evening! For more reason that I can count. Thank you. ❤️
This study is God’s perfect timing in my life right now, but why should that surprise me. We lost our almost 29-year old daughter to murder just 13 weeks ago today. She was a bystander in a neighbors quarrel. She knew you Lord and had a relationship ships with you and for that we are so thankful.
The part of Ecclesiasties 3 that really got to me and hit home was 3:5 a time to throw stones and a time to gather stones. Some days I just want to HURL stones Lord.
God’s timing is always perfect. I found this study the day after we found out we lost one of our 17 week old twins. So much grief and joy all at once as we mourn the loss of one baby but rejoice for the life of our baby boy. My husband and I have never experienced tension between mourning and dancing like this, but with the Lord and the truths of His Word there is hope. Thank you so much for sharing your story.
I lost my father to cancer on Father’s Day 2016. I will never forget sitting at his beside around 4:00 am in a roomful of sleeping people. My Grandmother, my Mom and myself were awake, and my Godly Grandmother asked me to read Psalms 23 aloud. It was one of the absolutely hardest things I have ever done. At sunrise my Father went to be with his Heavenly Father and his earthly Father. I still stand in amazement to this day at how peace and sorrow existed so strongly together on that day. It was the worst experience of my life yet at the same time, the most beautiful thing I have ever witnessed. Gods presence is so real, tangible, indescribable!
I lost my mom unexpectedly almost 5 years ago. I was devastated. We’re going through a tough time with our 16 year old son right now and I miss her terribly. She was so wise and supportive. My hope and faith in God has gotten me through all the ups and downs. He has given me the peace that passes all understanding over and over again.
God truly orchestrated this passage for me today. I came off of a intense night, and had been wrestling with doubts. I love how God reminds us of His love in the most gentle, Fatherly ways. He truly cares, overwhelmingly more than we could ever imagine, and wants us to have His joy, freedom, fulfillment, and righteousness in the life He has given us.
I lost my mom in May. We knew she was dying but none of us had any idea it would be this soon. She was my rock and the person that kept me sane. I’ve struggled so hard with her passing because I am the oldest but I live far away from the rest of my family. I haven’t been leaning on God. I haven’t been giving him my feelings or thoughts or grief, I’ve been struggling under the weight of it myself. Today I realized I can’t do it anymore. This plan popped up at the perfect time and I know it’s God way of saying “give it all to me”
Feeling grateful for this study , as my husband and I deal with secondary infertility and the struggle between cycles that fail but staying positive and happy for the son we do have is a tough balance.
I purchased the mourning and dancing books for my husband and I during his journey with cancer in 2016 and 2017. We anticipated his passing for 18 months, knowing only a miracle from God would change the course. At the same time we mourned his suffering, and the anticipated outcome, we mourned the estrangement of an adult child, his spouse, our grandchildren – gone from our lives by their choice. When you did this study at that time, I hoped that we could each write in our books, pouring out our grief for all that was going on, but also the scriptures God gave to comfort us, the good reports from doctors that gave us hope for more time together. But our time was filled with treatments, side effects, caregiving, and sometimes hearts so heavy that we had to cling to God, his word, his promises. I kept the books. I documented memories as best I could, hoping to go back and write about our grief – our mourning, and hopefully dancing later. I wrote much about our conversations, and some I held tightly to in my heart. My husband is now in heaven, so I’ll document the journey for us both. He went to be with Jesus still grieving over our family situation, and the heaviness of my heart. I rejoice his mourning, his pain, his tears, his sorrow are gone. I hope and pray for healing in my family, and I cling to the promise of eternity with Jesus – worshiping my Savior – o what a Savior – and I cling to the promise of no more tears, no more sorrow. Our hearts were forever changed through it all – clinging to God’s promises, feeling his love and compassion to a depth we likely would not reached but for the mourning. God, I ask you to give me the words to tell about this journey, and leave something for our grandchildren that gives them a deeper understanding of what a great God you are, and a desire to seek you with all their heart, soul, mind, body. All my hope is in you – for healing in my family, for more dancing along with the mourning, for eternal life with you. In Jesus Name.
I once overheard a testimony that a friend of my step father
A friend of my late step father gave.
He had stage 4 cancer and the doctor hand given him 6 more months to live. Then one day he stumbled upon a remedy that the Lord used to completely heal him. Here is the remedy:
Take 1 TBL spoon or Molasses and 1 TSP of baking soda in a mug of hot water. Add the water to the baking soda and molasses gradually, stir it very well in a wide breakable bowl first then sip it. Do this 3 times a day.
After doing this for I believe the first 3 months, the man told my step dad that the cancer was almost completely gone and the doctored were all shocked as they were sure that that cancer had taken up this man’s whole body. And in 6 months it was completely gone. I encourage all of you to try it without the dangerous Chamo. Please, DO NOT do chamo while taking this remedy. It won’t work.
Share it with other people that you know suffering from this dreadful evil called cancer. You have nothing to loose.
I plead the blood of Jesus Christ over the remedy as you believe it to work and free you completely from that illness in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thank you for sharing your heart and a little bit of your story with us
This is beyond perfect timing. As I drive to NC for my sister’s wedding, I just received news that one of my most loved coworkers suddenly passed away. This devotion was healing to my heart. Thank you for faithfully writing this devotion.
Thank you for making these wonderful resources.
“Whatever is, has already been, and whatever will be, already is. However God seeks justice for the persecuted.”
It’s comforting to know that none of our brokenness, grief, frustration or anger comes as a surprise to God. He knows what’s happened, how we feel, and all of our futures as he has written every word. I’m grateful that lamenting and hope do not have to be mutually exclusive, and that we have a savior who stands by us through both.
Mourning with those of you in a state of mourning! Blessings and prayers for you sweet people!
I am glad to have found this study today. I lost my father two weeks ago and having also lost my mother 9 years ago I am grieving and feel so lost. Thank you everyone for sharing. I know God is near I just wish I didn’t feel so sad. Xx
I lost my dad 9 years ago to a stroke. On the day we buried him I also lost a mother and sister…they disowned myself and another sister. It really has just hit me that I really never had the chance to mourn my dads passing. All of my emotions have gone into replaying over and over the scene outside the funeral home. The hurtful words spoken by all involved, myself included. I realize now that I’ve been so angry at my mom and sister that my dads death and the sadness of it all has been buried. Praying that I can finally grieve for him. Maybe, somehow, through that grief I can find understanding in all the rest. Praying for all of you!
Sam, I am praying that your relationship with your mother and sister be restored in Jesus’ name. That what has been done can be undone and made again, anew in Christ.
Oh how God works. Just came home from visiting my friend whose 29 year old is on life support with brain damage…but because it is so devastating, my daughter has taken the first steps to life,to recovery from alcohol.
My husband of almost 47 years suddenly & very unexpectedly passed away in July. He went on a short morning walk & never returned. I was still sleeping when my daughter woke me to say that he had been found unresponsive & that an ambulance had taken him to the hospital 20 minutes away. When we got there we were told that they were unable to revive him. My husband & I met when I was 14 & he was 15. It’s like he just walked out of my life after all these years together. I have never lived alone & I miss him terribly. He was the worship leader at our church & singing the songs that he used to sing & play on his guitar is very emotional for me. The holidays are coming & he won’t be leading us in Christmas carols at our family gathering this year. I pray that the Lord will get me through this very difficult time of mourning & that I will eventually learn to dance again.
So thankful, this plan came during the perfect time. Just this morning I was feeling down and asking God why he would put me through this situation if he loved me so much. Why would he want me to hurt and struggle if he loved me so much. I’m tired of being tired and hurting and being mad at him and I was asking him to help me deal with these emotions because I want to trust Him in that this is his will for my life. After reading this, it hit me, his tests might be hard, but it is only so we grow in him ❤️
This is my first time here, 23 days ago my son died while waiting on the light to turn green and a driver run him over because he didn’t see my son. My son was 20 years old and 2 days, he was my first. I’m seeking for guidance and how to strength myself in our creator.
Its funny how we always remember the joy in the hardest days of our lives, we pair the gut wrenching with the sweetness of life and whether the glaring opposition soothes us or proves all of our nightmares true it is still always a moment etched in our minds and on our hearts forever. I can recall each moment the day before and day of my husbands death. He was killed suddenly and tragically, leaving me to raise our 5 children, all under the age of 8. The details have sought to destroy me some days and yet they sooth me others. At first I felt guilty of the joy, that I Was forgetting him by celebrating, but then one day, suddenly I began to live! At first it was FOR him, I tried new and crazy food, rode roller coasters, laughed at terrible jokes, cranked the praise music and danced with the children like crazy bawling, messy people and I let the kids eat KD and processed cereal!! LOL Its been a long road. But there is joy, someday.
I’ve been reading The Longing for Motherhood and this lines up so closely. If you haven’t read, I greatly recommend that book. It’s all about having mourning and dancing can coincide and the need for both emotions for ourselves and to walk with others in.
I’m so excited for this study AND the new podcast! Thank you!
Praying for us all as we face our individual mournings during this study. And cling to the hope and promise that our mourning will turn into dancing. God show us how to navigate both in our lives and how to support each other. Amen.
I’ve never heard of She Reads Truth until yesterday, and it is good timing, God’s timing. One of my best friends very unexpectedly passed away just over a month ago. He was my age, 23. I know God is with me and my friend’s family, and He loves us, but it’s hard to feel Him. Even hard for me to invite Him in, I’ve almost wanted to work through this myself. I think I just want a quick fix, but I know I’m much better off clinging to Jesus and relying on Him to heal me and get me through each day.
I just want to say too, after reading some of these other comments, the faith some of you show in such incredible times of hardship is so inspiring. Two weeks before Garret passed away, I was thinking I really have nothing to complain about. Life is good. This is the hardest thing I’ve had to go through in my life, and I know there’s people who have endured more and much worse than I have by the time they are my age. This has all been very much a learning experience and opened my eyes to how tough life can be, which is just a testament to how important it is to truly love on people endlessly.
God bless you all
I lost a friend who was the same age and suddenly too. We grew up together, shouting half a block down to each other from our respective yards. My anger was so overwhelming at first. How could
God take my friend so soon? How dare He? But I only began to heal when I let God in. It’s been a slow process though. I suppose that’s how healing works. Not linear or easy or quick but back and forth, difficult and often drawn out. But God has been in this place too, long before us and He will lead us out. He is a bright light in all this darkness.
This is my first SRT study and I hope I can keep on track. Tonight I am mourning my sexual immorality / impurity and lust. This is very difficult for me.
For Greta.
Sweet blessings to you and many prayers as your heart dances with such sweetness and yet feels the conflict of huge sadness. Hugs and strength.
So grateful to open up to this s study. Haven’t been on for a couple of weeks as we just lost my mother-in-law to a house fire…she was found six feet from the door. Six feet. Grief. Mourning. Mixed with strength and joy. These are feelings we’ve been overwhelmed with the last few months. Up late tonight, listening to my husband and 3 children’s quiet, hopefully peaceful, sleep. I’ve taken turns cuddling each tonight, I can’t sleep, instead I’ve Treasured moments with each, and spent some time doing a bit of housework and dinner prep for tomorrow. Now I’m listening to the coyotes in the night. Hearing them matches the fear I have in my heart. Tomorrow is chemo and I dread the days to come. So tired at the end of the day teaching, I come straight home to bed, nothing left. I try not to mourn and grieve, but cancer has taken much in the past surgeries and days of chemo, and the years of medicine and wondering to come. I’m blessed it was found early enough that aggressive treatment has given me wonderful news and hope for the future. Happily near the end of chemo. The loss of his mother has been the almost breaking point. I’ve remained positive and upbeat throughout all of this…but it’s hard now. The feeling of hope seems to have been stolen from us. We pray much, I read much, I cry out to God much. I dance, I sing, I cry at night. Through it all, I’m grateful for the moments of laughter. The moments of closeness to God and my family and friends. The humbleness of accepting so much unexpected help and prayers. God has been good through it all. But still the grief mixed with joy. The mourning. Sometimes I’m lonely in this, trying to stay sunshine for everyone else. Trying to hide any pain. The quiet questions and fear in my head I want to shout out. I long for days of sunshine and light.
Prayers for you Hope !
Dearest sister, I encourage you to lament on Isaiah 53 4:5. Or better than this read the whole thing. I admire your strength. Always remember that it is promised in The Word that « joy cometh in the morning » I truly believe that The great Healer is going to bring you to a place of gladness. I like Isaiah 40:31 and I am going to believe it for you. Just keep looking up to the hills whence cometh your help… in the mean time declare healing over your life in Jesus’ name.
God loves you.
Hope, I feel as if there’s nothing I can say to truly express the depth of my empathy and love for you and your family, even though I’ve never met you. You are resilient and you are strong I pray that you and your family will experience healing to the fullest extent to which God has planned for you all, in the name of Jesus ❤️
This study is so special to me right now. While I am in a time of dancing (30 weeks pregnant with my first) I am also in a time of mourning (my 30 year old best friend has terminal brain cancer). ❤️
What I thought was going to be on my heart going into this study has really been the furthest thing from my mind. I am so grateful God put on my heart what I need to work through, mourn through and dance through in this study and I can’t wait to see what else is to come.
My mom passed away about 2 years ago. She was 46 and I was 23. I have no siblings but she was nearly like a sister to me we were so close. I miss her every day but over time I have grown to understand in my heart how faithful God is during both the mourning and dancing seasons. He is my constant love.
I’m so glad we are going through this study again. I just wrapped up with listening to the first episode of the new podcast too and it was so good to hear the truth about God and His steadfast promises to be with us in every trial. I am looking forward to every day of this study.
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When I did this study the first time my brother in law had died in 2014 my mother had just died in 2015 and my mother in law died in 2016. I could barely read the daily scripture and devotion as I was emotionally exhausted. When I saw they were bringing this back I was so glad that I could do it again with some distance from my grief. If will still be hard as 3 friends have lost their husbands in the last 2 months but I believe the Lord will help me gain some perspective this time that I missed last time. Plus, what a pleasure to read some of Raechel and Amanda’s writing again.
When I did this study the first time my brother in law had died in 2015 my mother had just died in 2016 and my mother in law died in 2016. I could barely read the daily scripture and devotion as I was emotionally exhausted. When I saw they were bringing this back I was so glad that I could do it again with some distance from my grief. If will still be hard as 3 friends have lost their husbands in the last 2 months but I believe the Lord will help me gain some perspective this time that I missed last time. Plus, what a pleasure
My husband and I just celebrated a year of marriage. While there have been so many moments of rejoicing, there have also been moments of mourning. Sometimes at the exact same time. We’ve rejoiced that we get to spend the rest of our lives together and yet we can each mourn the loss of our own individual freedom, wants, and desires. Melding two lives together is something so beautiful that I believe God designed for us to do. Each person sacrificing of themselves to mold into one. Something that I’ve learned is that just because something is hard, doesn’t mean that it can’t also be great. We mourn and we dance all at the same time.
This is beautiful… I’m in the same season of life as you. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you!
Some days we mourn over a loss that’s not death related but a loss nonetheless. Feels just like you are facing a terrible tragedy with no hope but then GOD…He is there right there with you and I thank Him that joy comes in the morning.
My son was stillborn in May. I remember the first time I laughed after he was born. It felt like such a betrayal to him. As time went on I soon became thankful for the joy that I could find on even the hardest days.
My sister passed away in September of this year from cancer. She was only in hospice for 7 days. I am from Kentucky, and most of my family still resides there, although I live in Florida with my husband and children, We always travel to Kentucky for Thanksgiving, and we will be making that trip again on Saturday. On the one hand, I am excited to see my family. On the other hand, it will be the first holiday without my sister, and the first time I’ve been back since her funeral. I am filled with a range of emotions. I haven’t been much of myself since her passing. I feel like someone on autopilot- going through the motions day to day. I try so hard to be “normal” around my kids, but when they aren’t around, I’m just meh. My husband was looking at pictures from 10 or so years ago, and he commented about how happy I looked. I long to have that joy again. I’m shocked by how awful the bags under my eyes are, and how my makeup doesn’t take them away. I know I need time, and I continually pray for God to grant me the peace that passes understanding,
It is a blessing to come across this study today. I list a brother 4 years ago November 16. My dear father August 19, 2018 to long standing copd. I Ended my engagement the following September because God revealed the man wasn’t in it for love. My precious mother and best friend 7 months later March 3, 2019 to a very quick year with aggressive oral cancer. She never smoked. For a solid year and three months I’ve grieved like I never realized was possible. The sadness is overwhelming. I am completely alone except for my youngest brother 800 miles away who looks at death in a very cavalier manner that I do not grasp. Of course he was not the caregiver to our brother and mother and I was. I get up every day because I know in my heart that God is not finished with me. Because my pets need to be loved. I refuse to believe that God will nit allow me to get through this season of grief and allow me to find true love and to dance again. Believe me when I say I wanted to go to God also. I rarely share my grief with others because I can feel they think I should move on. Thank you for allowing me to share. Thank you for this study. Blessings.
God will be the guide to help you through all of the grief you’ve experienced. Trust in Him and lean not on your own understanding. First15 is a free bible devotional app that has helped me daily. God’s blessing to you my sister in Christ. You are not alone.
You are never alone my sister in Christ. Trust in the Lord alone to guide and give you strength. First15 is a free daily devotional that has helped me in my walk. I pray that you will continue to seek the Lord and feel his presence.
This is so fitting for today. My best friend’s dad was put on comfort care today.
This is a study I wish I’d had 10 months ago. I was adopted by my stepfather when my mom remarried, and I’d recently reconnected with my biological grandparents. I’d put it off for years and by the time I reconnected, my grandmother was a couple years into a battle with dementia. I never had time to go visit (or never made the time) and then one day, sitting in church, I got the call from my aunt that my grandmother had passed away. It was a confusing time. Mourning the loss of my grandmother and the relationship we didn’t get to have. Feeling guilty for not connecting earlier. Feeling like I didn’t deserve to mourn because I hadn’t been around.
I dropped everything and went to the funeral. And stepping into that church was almost unbearable. Two steps into the church and I almost walked right back out. My husband caught my hand and encouraged me to stay. That helped, but honestly looking up and seeing God reflected all around me gave me the strength I needed. My grandfather was overcome with tears at seeing me for the first time in nearly 20 years. He hugged me close and told me that it was my presence that made the day bearable. It was a powerful sentiment, but admittedly one that made me uncomfortable and I felt even more guilty. I know that the circumstances that led to my adoption were not in my control, but I couldn’t help but feel that when I was old enough I should have done something. I hope that this study can help me as I still work through those feelings of loss and guilt and confusion.
This lament writing is difficult, but I worked my way through my first one. It helped me to get to the root of the problem — living with guilt. Not only has there been a great time of mourning over the death of my cousin, but I also harbored guilt that I could have stepped in more to help her before she chose to take her own life. The lament enabled me to lay this before the Lord. Thankful for His peace that surpasses all understanding.
I hope you will find some comfort from God during this study. My husband died in Feb, there are hard things to work through. Ultimately I know I can’t do this without Him. I hope you find that true for you too
This study today was such a blessing. Since we got married three years ago, my husband and I have seen six deaths in our family, the last of which was two weeks ago. I really hope and pray that through this study I can learn some of god’s word on this subject and that it can provide some space for emotional healing.
My mom passed away in July after being on life support for 8 days following a valve replacement surgery that didn’t work. It still doesn’t seem real. I didn’t get to go home for holidays often because of work and this was the year I was going to. So it’s making the holiday season really hard. I lost my dad 11 years ago to cancer and being single and in my 30s makes this more difficult. My friends haven’t gone through this yet so it’s hard for them to understand. I’ve been wrestling with God for a while now. Hoping this devotion will help me draw closer rather than push away from God.
This is so true of mourning and dancing. I once heard it explained that life is more like a set of railway tracks, each side needed and going in parallel just as joys and sorrows join together to make a life. For me my personal experience was when I was 12 years old, my grandma was murdered by her neighbour. It took many years at different stages to mourn different aspects related to her loss but also the way it affected my family and members of my family. Years later I married my incredible husband and his birthday is the exact date of the loss of my grandma. It always reminds me that God makes things beautiful in His time. Especially now that we have after forgiving and praying for my grandmas murderer Known and seen for ourselves that this man has come to know Christ in a very real way! God is always at work, we don’t see it all but when we see a glimpse it is His glory. Grace is amazing. Hope is too.
I am so thankful for this study! I have been grieving my infertility and childlessness for a long time and feel like I am just now finding joy in life again! I am looking forward to diving in and seeing what God’s Word says about joy and morning—thank you, She Reads Truth! I feel like God placed this study in my hands at just the right time!
I am praying for you Jennifer. I have been there. It is a tough, tough road. My husband Ans I’s story is long and complicated but we finally reached a point where kids were completely off the table in anyway, shape, or form. The best way I can describe it is (at least for me- it never become a scar. It more so resembles a scab. On my best days it remains in tact. Maybe a little itchy but manageable. But then there are those days-triggered by friends birthday parties, special holidays, seeing my husband watch a dad and son in a store, the list goes on and on- and well those are the days that scab re opens and it either feels really fresh and raw, perhaps bleeding for the first time or it just feels like everywhere I turn, what my eyes and ears are seeing is a blow to the heart and a heavy shaking of salt poured into the open wound.
Of course joy finds us again because we have a Savior who pursues in the darkest of places.
I help take care of my husbands Grandmother who has Alzheimer’s. We’re in the process of watching her decline and while hard we want her to be at home and comfortable until her last days.
I didn’t get to enjoy her before her journey began with ALZ but y’all. It’s difficult in a whole other way. I’m hoping this study can help me process and give us both peace in the coming days.
@Elizabeth Hinton,
I also lost my Dad to cancer when I was a little girl. He went to be with Jesus when he was 39, exactly one month before my 9th birthday. Hugs to you! <3
to Sarah and all the others sharing their losses, please know that you are never alone. What a blessed assurance, indeed, that God stands beside us when we weep and when we cry, as well as when we rejoice. I am thinking of you and praying for comfort and peace during times of trial. Better days are ahead. Amen.
Many are posting their losses of a loved one, so I feel a bit daft posting what I’ve been walking through with my family. I have defintiely experienced seasons of mourning from lost loved ones, but the season I am in now has been the most diffiuclt I have experience in my life: motherhood & family. I’ve suffered from PPD since my frist child (he’s 3yo). It’s something that has gripped me harder than I’d ever expected. We now have two toddlers and I love them dearly, but most days I mourn the identiy. I mourn being me and doing that things that I loved, the things that made me feel “special”. In additon, we’ve encountered financial setbacks. We sold our home recently to take the surplus and crush student loans and other debt (Dave Ramsey!!!) This was supposed to be a joyous time. Finally out from under the bondage of debt and being worreid about money, to being comfortable and at peace. 2 weeks before we closed on our house sale my husband was laid off from his job with 1 month of severance. We’ve had many blessings through this walk from family members and church members. I thank God every day for those he’s placed in our lives, but I’m mouring life a bit. I’m mourning the fact that my husband is depressed and doesn’t seem to have the drive to look for emplyement. I feel guilty even typing this because we haveso manhy blessings of a roof over our head, food inour pantry and family, but I’m mourning “what should have been”.
My father passed away a month before my 10th birthday after a long and strong battle with cancer. These verses always bring me tears and comfort as they were a large part of his service, as he was a farmer. Today was my first lesson with SRT after months of searching and talking with God and my church to bring me something that will help me grow in my faith and there couldn’t have been a better lesson to start!
I’m processing grief over three losses in the last three years. It started with my sister, then my Daddy, and this year my Papaw who was like my second dad.
I purchased this study back in May shortly after he passed, but I never could go through it. It feels like it’s time…even if I don’t really want to go there.
So I’m being brave and joining you all the next couple of weeks.
This is my first time at SRT. Given a severe health issue, I am homebound with the exception of doctor’s appointments. There has been many losses to mourn through this 25 years of increasing disability. The loss of community has been the hardest to navigate in these vacillating emotions. Years ago the Lord taught me through his word this precious truth about the coexistence of morning and dancing for those in Christ. And I can testify to that rich experience in my life.
But, I must admit that at the moment, lament has a greater hand in my heart as I find myself more alone in my grief. I don’t know about all of you, but I find grieving alone seems to make the grief more painful. Yes, I know our precious Lord is with me; he makes that evident to me and I am glad. Yet, I also see his beautiful design of the church is to be those who suffer together, weeping together.
My local church is in the midst of tornado recovery in which the church itself was severely damaged and the community around it looks like a war zone. I have grieved these losses with them through email and prayers the best I am able. Yet, I feel so disconnected from the opportunity to serve face-to-face alongside my brothers and sisters. As I hear of the stories of helping people get back on their feet, my heart is mixed with a joy of seeing the Lord care for others in need while continuing to plead for my own rescue. And not only mine, but the many other disabled and homebound people who are really invisible to the church and just seem to fall through the cracks. It’s especially difficult when the church itself is going through an acute catastrophe to be able to come alongside those in chronic devastation.
Yet, I know our God is good and is faithful to his promises that he will not forget the afflicted forever. We, the church, desperately need his help to live out his design. So I’m praying to the Lord of the harvest to send out the workers. And then, I was reminded in James to”be patient…until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door.”
So, like the prophets of old and Job, in the midst of all this pain, I aim to “remain steadfast” and not grumble, remembering “the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.” Trusting and waiting for him gives him glory and that will be for our joy!
I pray the Lord to lift up each of your faces to him in your own grief and to dance with you in your celebrations.
Diana, I have chronic health issues that keep me home bound so often. This has been going on for years. Chronic pain…I have felt invisible so often. So many things that I cannot do any more. The church does a good job of taking care of new moms, those who have just had surgery, and those with sudden emergencies; it has yet to learn how to care for those with long term illnesses, those of us whose needs will go on for years. We can be forgotten, because we have to stay home, and can’t always “ show up at the church building.” But so much of church life and ministry can be “done” in our homes! We need to get back to this. My life is not what I would like it to be, and I mourn that lost life, but evidently it’s what my Father wants. And I am so much closer to Him now than I used to be!
Just wanted you to know that you’re not alone. I too get incredibly lonely and long for community. Praying for you right now!
Susan P
Diana F and Susan Purvis. I so closely related to your responses. I have been diagnosed with over thirty debilitating illnesses, causing me to not have much of a life outside of the four walls of our tiny home. From the outside looking in, people see me as a picture of health because largely my illnesses are invisible and when I do venture out into public ( other than the hospital or doctors office), i am able to fake a smile and “put on a healthy front” in order to assuage people from feeling uncomfortable. However, those outings are so far and in between. I feel a lack of purpose, tremendous shame, and great frustration because having been an over achiever and struggled with perfectionism in the past leaves me feeling worthless when I am unable to even cook a meal for my husband.
As fas as we can see, in the decades I have been sick and now in recent years, things have gotten drastically worse. I have leaned into the fact that God answers our prayers but sometimes that answer is “no.” I could walk you though specific answers but it’s not needed at this time. All I am certain of is trusting that His, “No,” is because it opens up and is going to yield a greater yes for His kingdom and glory. That doesn’t mean I don’t desperately hurt and I struggle with why my story and the story my husband I have shared has been a continuously mountain climb—-
But i hope that my trust and reliance on Him in some way is visible to someone that doesn’t know Jesus or maybe even does and it starts a fire down in their soul. I also agree the church needs to do a better job at taking care of this population and not just members who have buzzword illnesses that people know about and receive lots of public attention. This is a hard fight.
Wow ! Thank you for sharing ! My mother in law had such tremendous faith ,I used to wonder how she went on after losing 2 children and two husbands but, she knew she’d be with them again so it kept her going . She would say “ have faith, put it all in God’s hands “ I try to follow that and am-so thankful to have God to take my burdens .
Thankful for this study at this time. At the beginning of the year I noticed it had become a new thing to take a word for the year. Everyone seemed to be doing it. I decided that was not anything I needed to do. However, the word Courage kept coming up. Like God was encouraging me to take this word on for the year. Of course, Courage is not a thing we like to embrace. The year began with my dad in the hospital/rehab center for three weeks, a trip overseas to encourage our son and his wife not to quit their ministry, my daughter’s miscarriage, my 54 year old husband having a heart attack and my closest aunt’s sudden death. That was all before June. I quickly realized Courage was the word for the year – whether I wanted it to be or not. I clung to verses like Joshua 1:9. Still clinging to it as the year is not over. There has been mourning and dancing throughout the whole year. Thankfully my son and his wife have been able to continue their ministry, my husband had made a tremendous recovery and my daughter is pregnant again. Yet, while this dance continues, there is still times of Courage ahead as the year comes to an end. My sweet daughter has had a hard pregnancy, with concerns that the baby may have to have immediate surgery as soon as she is born and maybe some life long health issues. Thankful for the fact that we have a God that is with us wherever we go – guiding us through this dance of life.
Carolyn Ann, your words brought tears to my eyes. I am so sorry this has been a difficult time for you. A lot of what you said, echos my own feelings about losing a relationship and the fear of trusting/ starting new again.
I will pray for you, especially these words: Oh to hope again. To love again. To trust again. To rebuild. And to live again.
Wow did God know I needed this study on this day. Heart break and loss can get overwhelming but God’s timing is perfect.
This study is hitting very close to home for me. I lost my father on September 29th to Pulmonary Fibrosis. He fought hard, but in the end his body was too tired to go on. Everyday has been a struggle. I’m finding some comfort in my Bible and devotionals, but my heart hurts so badly. I go between being so angry at God for taking him away from us and being glad my father is now standing in the glory of Jesus no longer suffering.
This study came at the perfect time in my life. I lost my father at the end of October, and we held a celebration of his life yesterday, rather than a funeral. Of course, we will mourn our tremendous loss, but we will also celebrate the life that he led and shared with us. I’m looking forward to this study as I pray it will help me through this difficult first holiday season, including his birthday in a couple of weeks. Thank you SRT for helping me to seek joy in this dark season.
❤️
I am thankful for this study. I wish I had it about 3 years ago. I was in a place of deep mourning while also trying to celebrate. My father left our family just a few weeks before my sisters wedding, a my own wedding that was a few months after. Trying to mourn the presence of a Father that rejected his whole family, while trying to cling to the Lord and the blessings of marriage that he was gifting me… was very hard. Needless to say, I think the middle grounds of mourning and dancing is more common than we think. Again, thank you for this study! I’m excited for it!
I listened to the podcast today and I felt a sense of relief. I have been going through a lot of things, work stress and personal stress/problems. It felt as if there is no OUT, but I know with God and with my Faith I can conquer anything.
My dad died 24 years ago on Nov 15, ten days before my wedding. My anniversary is always a reminder of mourning and rejoicing at the same time. This Nov I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Again, I find myself in this tension at the same time of year. Sorrowful yet always rejoicing! Looking forward to the day when all mourning is over.
This is a timely passage as today my one friend lays her mother to rest, while another friend gets to take her two year old home from the hospital for the first time in 3 months. We are rejoicing and grieving, and it is good to know God is here in the midst of both!
These words were food for my soul this morning. Our son Amos just passed away at 5 months old after a life of being chronically ill…I related so much to these words as I was his lifeline during pregnancy, and the burden was unreal most days. I always talk about the tension i feel as I mourn his being gone. I have so much hope in the truth that Jesus brings life in the darkest places. Hearing someone else share their story reinforces that hope this morning. Thank you. ❤️
This is my first time back to SRT after being away for awhile. I need to get back into the Word and find my way again.
I am not like many who have commented here who are mourning the death of a loved one. I am mourning the loss of my marriage.
My dreams. My expectations of what marriage was supposed to be. Loss of direction. Mourning the partnership that somehow died along the way. In my mourning I am angry that our marriage broke. That he quit. That I couldn’t fix it. That I wasn’t important enough to him. I AM enough. I just stopped being enough for him and he stopped caring.
This type of mourning is worse in some ways because I still see him at church or when we’re swapping kids for the weekend. For a while now I’ve been okay. Then it comes again, frustrations over problems that continue to not be resolved, some of the problems that caused me to leave that still haven’t been addressed yet.
Im also mourning my identity. As a person. As a woman. The same month we filed for divorce, I found out I was being laid off from my great paying state job, along with 115 others. I’ve now been away from that job for 6 weeks and just now sort of finding my way again. Loss of friendships. Loss of financial stability. Loss of security. Loss of direction. My new job is very slow going (I work based on direct contact with clients, so when I only have 2 appts all week, that’s all I get paid for). And having to shoulder all this myself, brings more waves of mourning and grief and anger over not having someone to do life with. Someone to lean on. Someone to help pick up the pieces and take the lead for awhile. It stopped being that years ago, I only just now had had enough of the toxicity and filed for divorce.
Now, I cry because I don’t know how to hope again. I read a comment someone posted that said “”It’s “accepting the tension that comes from holding both grief and hope in the same hand. Finding hope was not the absence of grief, but the acceptance of it and having the courage to keep moving forward. From a season of pain came beauty.”””
I’m having a hard time finding hope. Hope that I will find love. Hope that I will find a partner who loves God more than life itself. Hope that I will find a marriage that truly represents Godly love. Trusting someone again. Opening up to someone again, whether a man or anyone (I was betrayed by and stabbed in the back by someone at work who I used to go to church with).
I’ve been through a lot this past 12 months. So many changes. So much a season of being uprooted. Losing my direction. Becoming cynical and untrusting. Thinking, what’s the point of hoping again. I’ll just be disappointed anyway.
I believe God never wastes a hurt. He will see me through. I can’t do any of this without Him. He is my source and my strength. Out of my deepest hurt will come my ministry.
It just hurts in the meantime. I do good a lot of the time at making it through the days just fine. I’ve had a really good 5 weeks of reprieve, good mood, stability for a minute. It just comes and goes in waves, and when I sit still long enough, it’s overwhelming.
So I focus on what is going right and all the things I have to be thankful for. I believe we can’t know true joy without having experienced true sorrow. Maybe this all just means some awesome joy is on its way, just around the river bend. Because His word says weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning!
Looking for that joy around the corner. This year has been such a doozy, maybe there’s so much inexpressible joy ready to rush in behind it! Oh to hope again. To love again. To trust again. To rebuild. And to live again.
Carolyn Ann, I am so sorry to hear you are going through this. I want you to know that you are not alone in this. I too have mourned as you have. While my experience did not result in the end of my marriage, certain revelations on choices my husband had made resulted in a time of mourning for me, for us, because how I thought my marriage was going to be, who I thought my husband was going to be and who I thought he was, wasn’t true. My husband had a short term affair with another woman after we had 10 years together. While we struggled for the next year to work through our marriage, it was so tough. I had absolute moments of just anger and frustration and despair….and questions of..why am I going through this? Why me? What did I do to deserve it? And I knew those weren’t the right questions to ask, it was part of God’s plan for us. This experience…I still cry and have feelings towards it because it was so hard, but it brought both my husband and I closer to God. We joined a couples bible study. We fought hard over big discussions that were really important spiritually. We asked big questions of each other. And I also realized something huge….my husband is human. He’s going to let me down. Other people are going to let me down. But not God. He won’t let me down. He is there for me, and will always be there for me. He has a plan for me, bigger than my own. He won’t give me more than I can handle.
I know this is frustrating, and it hurts. And it’s going to hurt even at times when you think that you are over it! I remember I would be perfectly fine..going about my day, and then LITERALLY I would be sad or angry…and other than myself, my husband, and God….no one else knew. We didn’t tell anyone else what had happened to our marriage. To this day, no one else knows. We didn’t tell anyone because it wasn’t anyone else’s business. This was between my husband, myself, and God. We needed space to work out this process together, without anyone else’s input. Will I ever tell anyone else? Yes, when the time is right and it is appropriate to share the story. When I can reach out to someone else, like you Carolyn Ann, and let you know that you will someday be okay. You will be more than okay. It may not seem like it now. Or it may seem like it today, but then next week you may have a slump and hit a low moment…and that is okay. You do what you need to do. Read your Bible, rely on your prayer warriors, pray. I will be praying for you. Give it time, and remember that you are destined for something wonderful.
Hello Carolyn. I pray God grants you your heart desires. He sees you.
Such good words today. I just finished a book by Henry Nouwen called “Turning your Mourning into Dancing”. These have been days of lament. Hard days. Days I never thought I’d have to walk through. These have also been days of great gifts! I just got back from a family vacation of a lifetime. I know God is calling me His Beloved, and I still seek the Lord as I navigate the complexities of this world but it is so hard some days. Today will be a hard day, more hard days to come, but this is a good reminder again, my hope is in the Lord…the tension is real.
Hey ladies. Would you pray for me? I’m in the thick of it, three young kids, working for myself, trying to stay mentally and physically healthy, trying to connect in my marriage. I’m having trouble taking “pleasure in the toil.” These verses really popped for me, and if you could pray those words for me, I would be so grateful.
Today marks 5 years my daddy went to heaven. Additionally, this year I lost Mama, my first cousin who was like my brother as well as my brother in law. I was sitting at the breakfast table having coffee and I opened this email. Thank you for these words….this world is so hard sometimes. My hope is in Jesus and his promise of eternal life for those who believe. :)
I woke this morning after spending a night steeped in grief and between sobbing and crying out to the Lord how much I miss my son. We lost our grown son almost one year ago and we are left with trying to put the pieces of our hearts back together along with helping his wife and three small children navigate each day.
I opened this study this morning to find His perfect words for me! It is a balm of healing for my soul. Our comfort is knowing our son is with the Lord and even though we our separated now one day we will be reunited and how precious that will be!
Thank you for sharing and thanks be to God for His grace and comfort in our pain!
This is a timely study for me. Not because of a death of a loved one, but through this study I realized I havent really ‘mourned’ or dealt with al myriad of emotions and grief that came when I was diagnosed with cancer in 2016. The grief that comes with the treatments, losing the ovaries and breasts to surgery and cancer and cancer prevention. I havent fully processed it all, in trying to be strong for others, especially my kids. Thankful for this study, which I feel the Holy Spirit tugging on my heart, telling me its ok to grieve what has happened, to mourn over what has been lost through this trial, to take it to him and lay it at his feet. And most importantly, to expect and hope in his faithfulness, restoration, and healing power.
My mother passed away when I was 8. I wish I had more time to get to know her. I wish she was here to see me grow into the woman I am today. She’s in better hands and she’s no longer suffering. At least I know that.
I lost my husband of 42 years this summer to cancer after a long year of struggling. I miss him so much and so this study is very timely for me. We have 3 grown sons who also miss him but one who is especially struggling with the loss of his dad. Please pray for our family as we navigate this first year especially this holiday season. It’s hard to imagine having the joy or even desire to dance again but as these scriptures say, there will be a time for that again.
So well timed. My husband was killed in a random shooting three years ago. Gardening has been my therapy and I live this life with our now four year old daughter. To plant something that won’t be what you want for years, is to trust life will return with joy.
It has been almost a year since my Grandmother passed. We didn’t have a super connected relationship which is why I feel like her leaving was so hard. So many loose ends. I suppressed every ounce of how I felt to support my Dad through his grieving process, not wanting to be a burden. That was his mom which, in my mind, had to be substantially worse than me losing my grandmother. (Side Note: Don’t compare your grief to anyone else’s. You can both be different yet hurt the same.) But, the year passed and there were moments of joy and laughter. As I watch my 18-month-old, I’m reminded of new life and as I play her piano, I am reminded that God brings beauty from ashes.
I am currently going through a new season of mourning. As a pianist, my hands are critical. I just found out that I have a ligament and joint problem that is going to permanently impact my ability to play keys. I can continue to play, but with each time, I’ll exasperate my injury.
It was good to read Ecclesiastes to remember that there is a season for everything in our lives. Praying for clarity during these next few months.
I had never thought about the tension between mourning and dancing and how they often happen simultaneously. Jesus promises that we will have trouble, but he also promises us true joy! We don’t always know when these seasons will come into our lives, but we can trust him to walk with us through them.
A time to mourn and a time to dance….years ago when I started this study for the first time my brother was sentenced to prison and my family endured so much pain and mourning. As I begin this study a second time my brother has been released from prison and is now a Christian…..and now we dance. What a God moment as I thought of it this morning when I saw what the new study was!
The following quote from Nicole DeBoer has helped me navigate the journey of life I have been on:
It’s “accepting the tension that comes from holding both grief and hope in the same hand. Finding hope was not the absence of grief, but the acceptance of it and having the courage to keep moving forward. From a season of pain came beauty.”
Jesus walks with us through the seasons of both grief and hope in our lives.
May we take comfort in the fact that He is present and faithful through it all.
My aunt passed away suddenly yesterday afternoon. At 78 years old, she lived a good life that was devoted in service to God. While I know that she is finally Home, it is still hard knowing that we will not have the chance to see her again this side of heaven. I see God’s timing in this devotional so clearly. Please pray for my family as we work to celebrate her life and make the necessary arrangements.
My husband and I are doing this study after losing a close friend of ours unexpectedly. That loss brought on realizations other losses were never truly grieved, but I pushed away my grief focusing on the dancing without giving the time for the mourning. The loss of our friend is truly hard. I know the mourning will be continuous as daily moments bring up memories which will make us grief the loss again. Embracing the time to mourn is what I pray the study will help us do.
Powerful scriptures and a heartfelt message which seems timely for us all!
As I read all the comments, my heart breaks for each one of you. My heart breaks a little for myself as well. However, as I lift the SRT community up the Holy Spirit reminded me of the HOPE, the SURE HOPE that we all have in our LORD JESUS CHRIST.
When my daughter was struggling with something I would affirm her feelings but encourage her to only allow herself a set amount of time to be in that emotion. Once that time was past it was time for her to move forward. Almost like setting an emotional timer. This practice has been so helpful for me and my daughter!
Sending my love to you all! Asking God to bless you all with His tender mercy, gentleness, and love but then to lift you up with His power, truth, and hope!
Six years ago this past weekend, my 27-year-old brother died of colon cancer. It was the day after my 30th birthday. For years, it was kind of a dark joke that he didn’t die on my birthday because he didn’t want to spoil the celebration forever. But really, this is a hard time of year. In the course of two weeks we celebrate my birthday, mourn his death, and then his birthday comes five days later, chased immediately by Thanksgiving and the knowledge that our family will never be the same. I had not before considered that his death paired with a day of joy and celebration can make the whole thing easier. This year we celebrated my birthday with a group of friends around a bonfire, and I can talk about my brother without tears. It’s been a long time coming. I love, in hindsight, the combination of joy and mourning that God provides to help our family through this time of year.
This plan came at the perfect time. I lost my mother exactly a year ago this Thursday. This I’m sure will help me through this week.
So much hurt happening in these comments and my heart aches for every one of you. God, please being these women hope and the peace that truly passes all understanding. Please let them feel the love of this community of women. Comfort them, hold them and may they feel You drawing near. Amen.
Amen.
Death of a loved one is one of the hardest things we go through on this earth. I lost my sister and a dear friend both to cancer in the last three years. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t miss my sister and wish I could talk to her. But God has worked in my life in a way he would never had been able to if I had not gone through the mourning. He has placed people in my life I would have never met and I have grown closer to Him then I have been. I don’t have it all together but I do know that my God is real and someday I will see my sister and friend in Heaven. Thank you for this two week study at this time of year.
I am mourning the passing of my Dad, today is one month. I am morning the passing of my Mom again as I clean out their home. I know that I was not a perfect daughter, but he knew I loved him. It hurts that it seems his life is reduced in three piles, one to keep, one to donate and one is trash. But God, he reminds me, life begins at death. He had a good life, 77 years and many don’t make it to that age, I asked him if he had a bucket list and he said he did everything with my Mom. While I know I will weep and mourn, I am also happy and dancing that he is finally with my Mom and his family in heaven. I will have good and bad days, but I will lean heavily on my Savior. He is with us.
My mom passed away almost a year ago in December. A few days before Christmas. It’s so hard to grieve but know that she is dancing inHeaven because she loved God more than anyone I know. This study is coming at the exact right moment.
My spiritual mama passed away 3 weeks ago. My heart has shattered, but I have a husband, children, clients and life. Some days I can pull it off ok, but other days the grief washes over me like a wave. Praying for everyone else in this group too.
I desire to do all things well while acknowledging the impossibility of that desire. I went to live well, fully serving my Lord with gratitude for His goodness to me. I want to die well, anticipating seeing His face and hearing “Well done, good and faithful servant.” My mother has told me the manner of my birth. I know not what my manner of my death will be. What I do know is that God loved me at my birth for He gave life to me. I do know that God will love me at my death for He has written the date of my last earthly day in His book. Then… eternity with Him begins! I have mourned and danced throughout my life. What comforts me in the mourning times and what expands my joy in the dancing times is His overarching love. I don’t experience either one alone. He is with me in my mourning. He is with me in my dancing. I can lean on Him to hold me in His strong embrace, whether I am sobbing against His chest or I am laughing as He twirls me on the dance floor. Mourning. Dancing. Experiencing the sorrows and the joys of this life. Highs. Lows. Yet… In all, through all, His love is constant.
I am mourning my mother who passed away in January. I just flat out miss her and hope that this study will help me work through some of the grief.
This is so incredibly timely. My mom passed away in February. Yesterday, Nov. 17, would have been her 83rd birthday. He’s slowly drifting away from us. This season of grief has been so incredibly hard. I have learned that it comes in waves. At first, you think you’re going to drown – one wave after another – and then gradually they get farther and farther apart. But sometimes, out of the blue, one will smack you in the face. There’s no rhyme or reason to it. There are no answers to the question of “why?”
But God…
He is good and faithful, compassionate and merciful. He has not left us alone in our sorrow. He has used it to draw me closer and closer to His heart. Yesterday, for my mom’s birthday, we planted a tree next to her grave. I can’t wait to see it bloom in the spring.
Be blessed today, sweet sisters.
This is beautiful. My first baby was stillborn, and I was devastated. I was brought up Catholic, but I didn’t know about God’s Truth in the Bible. After her burial, I was asked to go to a different church. They were clapping and praising God. I was angry and asked God why He brought me there. One lady caught my attention. She was pretty and was singing and praising with joy. I figured she probably had a perfect life: no money problems, sound mind, not burying a child. No wonder she could praise. That very lady came up to me and said that she usually doesn’t do this. However, God told her to tell me to run to Him and not away! What? God sent me a message? He cared and saw my pain. He used the same lady I was watching. She couldn’t see me watching either. How precious, amazing, and sweet is our God? The same woman helped me as a new believer. I ran down when he gave the message of salvation. It turns out, her life wasn’t perfect. She had a miscarriage and money issues. But, she had the joy of the Lord! She wrote me a letter, gave me praise music, and talked with me. I would not have gone to that church if my beautiful daughter had t passed away. I knew Jesus died, but I didn’t understand that He died for my sins. I didn’t know that He is the Way, Truth, and the Life. No one gets to the Father except through Him. I wouldn’t have chosen this path, but I found salvation. I now realize my daughter is with Jesus, and that’s the best place to be. I’ve been able to help others that have lost children. I told one friend that every life has meaning. Even though Angel never took one breath outside the womb, she had and has a purpose! Her son’s life did too! She said that comforted her. I do believe God used Angel’s life and still can. Meanwhile, she is safe with Him rejoicing and praising and not in pain. Do I still cry? Sometimes. Was the experience heartbreaking? Yes, but God is still good. I know that now.
I am so moved by everything I am reading here this morning. The Ecclesiastes passage has always been a favourite, but takes on a new poignancy alongside what everyone is sharing. You are all in my prayers.
I am an aid worker in the Middle East. I feel like I am constantly faced with something that breaks my heart- there is plenty of injustice to cause me to be mourning and broken over and over again. When I sit and listen to a 17 year with a story of abuse that continued when her family forced her to marry at 15, when I look at families who have fled everything due to air strikes from warring political powers and and only have the clothes on their backs, when I hear of a friend who’s husband has decided to abandon her and their children because he wants a second wife… I mourn. But we are called to be the light of Christ. I love how the devotion reminds us that often mourning and dancing need to happen at the same time. There are still things to dance about. The Lord is still at work and still good. What a beautiful reminder this morning.
I’m currently not mourning anyone but I know that season is not far away. With a sick grandmother and aunt.
I’ve been in a state of mourning since May, I’ve lost someone each month since then, but I know God takes all things and uses them for good. Even if I don’t see it.
I just heard that a couple I went to high school and missions trips with died with their two young children in a car accident when they were on a missions trip overseas a few days ago. My heart breaks for their families and friends that are left behind and it feels so unsettling that people my age have passed away. I am encouraged by the verse that there is a time for everything and their time to be with Jesus, while difficult to understand, was in God’s timing. Thank you for this devotional.
I’m mourning the loss of someone who is still alive—more like the relationship I always wish we had. I know it’s not the same as someone physically passing away but it is different because the relationship could be there since the person is alive…but it’s just not. It’s okay to mourn what you wish was. I’m interested in the passage from John that expresses that some things must die before life can grow out of it. Praise God for being the one who gives and takes away…this is hard!!!
I just lost my grandfather and am having a hard time with mourning. Hes the first grandparent I’ve had my entire life and the only one I remember. Watching him turn from an independent man into getting calls in the middle of the night that hes wandering around his neighborhood, from him having to move in with us and us having to help with every day functions has been hard. Love the first day already. I know you cant highlight on here but I’ve taken many screenshots. Thank you.
I lost my father in March, and have given up the life I had to be my mother’s full time caretaker. It’s been very difficult for me to mourn my dad and my old life, as it effects her. Also at the exact moment all this was happening, God brought me my husband. My best friend of 10 years, who is a God fearing, powerful praying, spiritual man. Just when I thought I’d never find him, God made a way for it to happen. So it’s been a time of mourning and a time of dancing in my life thisd last year. However I’m a very joyous person by nature, so it’s been hard for me to not feel guilty for not taking the proper time to mourn my dad. It’s just so hard! But I also know he is no longer suffering, is in a better place and I’ll see him again someday!
My husband of 10 years had decided that he wants to leave me because he believes he will be happier without me…I don’t even know what to think, where to go, or what to do. This man, who promised to love, protect, cherish me for the rest of my life, doesn’t want me…for no reason at all. It is completely shattering my entire world. I’m doing my very best to press into the Lord and trust HIM for protection, guidance and love.
You are not alone. Praying for your heart.
Praying for you, Ariel! I know it’s hard. I’ve literally been in your situation. Stay strong in your faith and pray to He who is always there and won’t let you down! You may be lost right now, but in time you will begin to see what is His plan for you. Your pain isn’t for nothing!
I started this devotion because my grandfather is passing away and I wanted to seek the Lord as the process continues, but I was having feelings of guilt as my life happily continued hundreds of miles away from my family mourning at home. These feelings were especially strong today because the boy I like asked to hang out and I was overwhelmingly excited. But how can I feel this excited when my grandfather is suffering? As I read through the scriptures today I was comforted. I am beginning to understand how I can still feel joy without guilt in these hard times. This isn’t a fully developed thought, but it feels good to get some of it out there.
I’m still reeling from an unexpected break up with the man I thought I would marry. What spoke to me most in this lesson is the word heal. It’s time for me to heal. It was okay to mourn but now it’s time to dance and trust where God is taking me now. Never thought I would still be single at 30 but I’m learning that God will make everything beautiful in His time and that I will survive.
I lost my husband of 24 years to cancer in December. I’m learning to have not amongst the circumstances. Knowing my joy comes from the Lord.
Tammy, I realize that you wrote this 3 months ago, but I’m going to spend my day in prayer for you. I’m so sorry about your loss.
Just left our youngest at college, empty nest they call our home now, what a strange name this seems to me as a Jesus follower…yet it is a huge time of transition. My heart is full of excitement for our daughter but we will miss her tremendously. I return home to a sweet momma who is battling ovarian cancer and another health issue we await a full diagnosis and treatment plan for and a brother in law who has colon and lung cancer. I too am dealing with health issues. Life is indeed a journey of joys and losses, transitions and changes. May I honor God through this season of my life. God is faithful and this is where I choose to place my hope and future.
Wow this is powerful!
I started this study after losing my 3rd child in 3 years due to repeated miscarriages, the last two in the second trimester where the babies needed to be delivered. I don’t understand God’s plan for our family but I Plant myself in His truth and in His Word. I have hope and pray for our future. Whatever it may be.
Praying for your family too!!!! You’re not alone dear sister!!! We are all praying for you!!! God is faithful!!! He will carry you through your time of grief and mourning.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
I mean…. I am sitting here praying for you in tears. I can’t begin to wonder what Gods plan is but I do know that he is sovereign and our strength when we have none. I am praying for you sister!
I loved what today’s lesson taught about the normalcy of lament and sorrow.
It’s okay.
It’s normal.
And life still happens because of Christ in us.
I’m going through a season of major depression and anxiety. I bought this plan a long time and completely forgot about it. I’m glad that I found it again.
Going through this study again as I lost my dad a little over a year ago. ❤️
I just lost my Aunt on July 3 and I am excited to start this study. I pray this study will give you the grace of God as you grieve the passing of your dad
Perfect timing to start this plan. Our third round of fertility treatment failed early this morning (2 1/2 years and counting TTC). I’ve been struggling with being angry with God and myself…what am I doing wrong, why us, what more can I do, I didn’t pray hard enough, I wasn’t/am not good enough…I know things will happen in His time and not mine. But it sure is soul crushing in the meantime.
Perfect study as I am in the beginning stages of a divorce with a man I truly love. Good for strengthening my faith as I pray and beg God that I don’t lose my precious 6 month old son. Who knew my 20th year of life would be such a mess? God did. And He has a bigger purpose for it all. Trying to keep that in mind.
Girl. Right there with you. ❤️
My 25th year has included watching the person who promised to love me walk away. But it’s also been a year of growth in my career and independence.
I’ve been clinging to the verse in Esther ‘And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”’ Slightly out of context, but she was young and about to do something very scary too. Prayers coming your way love.
Honestly, it’s Easter time and this study perfectly starts with the matters of the death and resurrection of Christ, and sin and redemption. I’m really enjoying this study, and it’s opened my eyes to the mourning and dancing process. And She Reads Truth has always shown me things that provide huge realizations and they always stamp something beautiful on my heart:)
I feel that the day to day suffering I experience due to stress of an unhealthy work environment, medical issues, and being away from my family and friends makes the mourning much more natural than the dancing. I am praying that by spending time in this study with Gods word that the places and reasons to dance will become greater than those to mourn.
I hope you are able to find that joy as well and dance in the midst of mourning. I hope God can really reveal that JOY and you can experience it tangibly in your life! As I’m praying for that revelation in the things I’m mourning ❤️
A week ago today, I found my husband cheating on me. I’m struggling between the mourning and the dancing, because I feel like I’m expected to just mourn when I fact, I feel relief and joy interspersed with sadness and anger. I find hope in two outcomes- the Lord has seen my heart and his, and is using this awful moment to create new beginnings and freedom for us in separate lives; or He is using this moment to tear down our toxic marriage and allowing us to rebuild it in what His plan for our marriage always was. I’m hopeful in the mourning and free in the dancing, and allowing myself to feel both in their entirety.
How do you find joy in Christ?
I’m surprised to see no replies to your question-an important one. For me, the joy of the Lord results from taking my eyes off of myself & my situation & focusing on His love, power & sovereignty. When I feel low, or sad, or simply don’t understand, I choose to put my trust in the Lord. Scripture & Christian music, as well as fellowship with believers can help tremendously. If I stay wrapped up in my own misery I am just that-miserable & useless. I pray you haven’t given up on Jesus, & that this message finds you!
Miscarried after 7 weeks. I waited 10 years for my husband to be ready for children. Just got through what would have been my due date on 2/8/19. So tired and trying to lean on Jesus now after trying to fill the void with stupid stuff.
The love of my life passed from a fentanyl overdose. May 18, 2018 was his time to die. I remember when I found out I was across the country in the middle of a crowded convention centre full of teenage volleyball players and a beautiful sunny day turned into one of the worst days of my life. February 7 was supposed to be his birthday but he’ll never be another year older. I dreamt about him and I haven’t been able to shake the feeling of misery all day. For some reason, I refused to turn to scripture. I almost wanted to feel miserable, because it felt like I would be disrespecting him if I rejoiced. Finally, after not being able to sleep I came looking for something to help my start healing and that’s exactly what this did. I’m so happy that I’ve found a way to begin to process the death of the love of my life. Maybe by the end of this I’ll have found a point in being alive when he isn’t. Maybe I’ll stop feeling guilty for getting sober when he couldn’t. Maybe because of Christ, I’ll dance again.
I put my baby to bed on 12/31/18 around 10:30. We found her unresponsive and not breathing at 12:45. My baby went to be with Jesus and I’m trying to immerse myself in scripture so that I remain stable and joyful in such a difficult time.
Oh Chelsea, I’m so very sorry. Praying you find comfort in Gods promises during this horrible time.
I really relate to this story. I was about 7 weeks pregnant and found out today that I misscaried. I have been trying to make sense of it all but one of the things I held on to was that regardless of what happened, our God has the ability to give life or take it away and therefore it reminds us of his title, God. Whether we think we can control our lives or not I am reminded who is really in control. I continue to serve Him and I know that He will turn my mourning into dancing. Hurting with all of you.
A month ago, I was shot and kidnapped – It was an attempted robbery. A man got in my car and told me to drive to an atm at gunpoint. I escaped, and now I have 2 bullet wounds in my side where the bullet went through and through. People ask me how I’m “handling it so well” and honestly, all I can say is “how can I not be joyful after Jesus bringing me out if that Alive?!” some days I really am not ok though. Some days are harder than others. But there is a hope. I have peace and unexplainable JOY DEEP IN MY HEART. Because Jesus is SO GOOD. Truth is, some days it’s hard to fight for that joy because I can feel the enemy trying so hard to take hold of my heart. After reading day 1 of this devotional I’m reminded of that steadfast true joy I have in Jesus. And that even on the days my human heart is heavy and feels like it’s too much, he still PURSUES my heart. He fights for me.
Nicole and Deborah—I can relate to your grief. My mom passed away after succumbing to the aftereffects of a septic infection, and I watched her take her last breath on Nov. 3. The surreal nature of knowing, yet not being able to truly comprehend the reality was something I’d heard others say but didn’t relate to. Now I do.
I agree that the Lord numbers our days (Psalm 139:16 and Job 14:5), and I have found comfort in His sovereignty. He knew things that were going on with my mom that I didn’t, and He knew it was time for her to know even as she is fully known (1 Cor. 13:12).
Still, we remain to grieve and live. The reality dawns with each break of day. Thanks to each of you for sharing your hearts. It comforted me to know I am not alone in my sorrow.
I just picked this study up last week, thinking it would be a good read to do at work (boy, not a good idea since it brings up so many tears). My mother and grandmother both died 8 years ago and during this holiday season I always feel their absence the most as all the traditional holiday stuff they did has fallen to me to keep alive for the family. That’s why I got the study, thinking that sometimes I still mourn like it was yesterday (they died within 2 months of each other). Last month I was on the beaches of Mexico watching my son marry, I danced with joy for him, with him, and then this week I’m at the funeral home for a family member that died suddenly and today is another funeral for a family friend. I’m waiting to hear about my best friend’s father, waiting for his time to end. Mourning….and we are suppose to find joy in that too. That’s hard. I’ve often thought the translators got the spelling wrong on that verse in Psalm 30….joy comes in the morning….joy can come in the mourning. I watched in happened with my mother. The joy was so overwhelming when I focused on the fact (not that she took her last breathe) but that she was face to face with Jesus. How could that not bring us joy in the mist of the mourning?
I just discovered SRT late this year and this study couldn’t come in a more opportune time.
Earlier this year, I held my dad’s hand as he gave me to my husband in marriage. Late September of this year as well, I held my dad’s hand for the last time when he joined the Lord. It happened so fast. Diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer last April and since the cancer has metastasized to his abdominal valves, bladder and lungs already, it was a struggle for him to take in food, even to breathe. Every time I held his hand, I always asked the Lord in prayer, “Please spare dad for one more day, “Please don’t take him home yet,”. It was frustrating for me, because I have no ability to take away the pain he is feeling. I would count one to ten to help him with his breathing, as he kept gasping for breath. I would remind him to breathe through his nose, because he always tried to take in air using his mouth. “Slow deep breaths, dad,” I would always remind him as I gently rubbed the sides of his chest.
My husband and I planned to take him fishing and my dad and mom in fact, planned to fly back to visit us last September. But our plans are not the Lord’s plans. If the Lord says that it’s your time, what can you do?
It seems surreal that he’s gone. Some times, I wake up in the morning thinking he’s still around, but I’m reminded that he is not physically with us anymore.
This year is such an emotional roller: Rejoicing for a marriage, a new baby in the family (my niece) and then mourning – from a loss of a father who was a God-fearing man and served the Lord in work, church and in the community. He was a God-send and blessing to us all. And I truly am heartbroken that he’s gone.
I really needed to read this. I am so thankful that because of Christ, I will dance again!!
This blessed me so much! That passage from John hit my heart and brought tears to my eyes. I could feel the Lord speaking to me….BUT JOY WILL COME my sisters!
A friend recommended this study to me after we both experienced the miscarriage of our first pregnancies last spring. Last week, I had another miscarriage and we are grieving the loss of our second baby. I am devastated. I need to learn to still dance while mourning and trust that He will redeem my sorrow into joy. Thank you for this study…
Katelyn, so much love and encouragement to you, sweet sister.
Katelyn, my heart breaks for you. My husband and I too, experienced a miscarriage this past May and a second miscarriage just this fall. I am hopeful to be able to go through this study and learn what it means to make time to mourn, to mend and to dance. Praying that you would find peace and find joy as you go through this study. God be with you beloved.
Thank you. I literally just read my own story. I lost my daughter 4 years ago and I too was her lifeline while she was in my womb. This intricate dance of mourning and joy- it’s so hard but there are times of reward. Thank you for this encouragement and for reminding me of the hope we have through our Heavenly Father.
Thank you. I just opened this today while grieving over our recent miscarriage. Words of hope. Nothing is wasted.
Knowing when it’s right to cry and when it’s right to smile is really hard for me. I think that I didn’t mourn when I should have and that ultimately lead to more brokenness and sadness. And then I got caught up in the crying and forgot how to smile for too long. There are seasons for both but I like the idea of dancing in the rain and doing some of both all the time. That is far more realistic and I think it might feel more balanced in a way.
I think the thing that this reading made me think about most is the times I cast off certain friendships and people. There were always new, healthier friendships that came shortly afterwards. It’s comforting that maybe that’s how it’s meant to be, you loose friends and then make more and then you loose them and then you make more… this has been an extremely lonely time in my life. I’ve lost all me friends once again and I tried to move on to new ones but there have been no new friends for a long time now. But if there is a season of loneliness, then there has to be a season of friendship again too, right?
Honestly, dancing and mourning are so hard to balance. In this stage of life I’m in, I find myself not seeing beauty in the world around me and only mourning for how broken my college campus is. This is a great reminder to learn how to dance in the rain. My friends tell me that I shouldn’t care what others are doing and how they are living. That I take things too personally and I shouldn’t become depressed for those people. It is right to mourn but I need to remember joy and how important that is. Life does come from death. I hope I see some life happening where I am.
I’ve been a believer my whole life but over the past few years I have let my relationship with God take the back burner, not being thankful for all of my blessings and the greatness he has bestowed upon me. Now in a time of love gone lost, moments when I am questioning myself, my purpose and my hope; i hope that these readings can pull me back into be closer with God.
I’ve had this devotional for at least 6 months and never took the time to crack it open. Obviously, God knew when I’d need it most. After my husband confessed his unfaithfulness to me and our marriage, mourning has been most of what I’ve been doing. The tension that Raechel speaks of..when to cry and when to have joy…is so real and present in my life right now. The Lord is helping me to see glimpses of joy and restoration as my husband and I work together to mend our broken marriage. This is the first time in my life that my emotions and reactions are confusing. But as I write out my lamentation, “I will hope in the continual loving kindness bestowed on my life.”
I too have had this devotional for awhile and today I begin
I pray for your healing as I pray for many others and myself
The latest shooting spree in Las Vegas has us all reeling but we know our Savior stands by us – there’s trouble in this world but we have HOPE.
I am a newer believer, and I always knew having faith wouldn’t be easy, yet this summer truly tested my faith in God. On June 17th, my boyfriend and I broke up after 4 years, and then on the 20th, I miscarried at 8 weeks. I feel very lost and confused about so much, why would God do this to me? What did I do that was so incredibly wrong? I have been battling with these questions everyday. I’m still healing and battling, yet I hope through this study, I can get through.
Kayla, I just want to say that I’m so glad you have come to a relationship with Jesus, and have taken on a new identity in Him! I also want to say that I am so very sorry for the loss of your baby and no longer being in relationship with your boyfriend. I want to encourage you to read Eph. 3:16-21 and Psalm 139. Remind yourself of how much God truly loves you. Remember how he called you and reached into your heart to draw you to Him. He will never leave you, never forsake you! He is an ever-present help in our times of need, and He moved heaven and earth to win your heart! If that doesn’t describe a loving God then I don’t know what does. I know it can be hard to see why you had to experience those losses, but don’t lose hope! God can still redeem that and bring beauty out of it. If you want someone to talk to about this more, I am available! My email is [email protected]. I’m also going through this study, so we can talk about that too. I hope this can be of some comfort or encouragement to you. Bethany
My dad has been gone for 4 years, but some days it feels like just yesterday. I didn’t mourn when it happened, which sent me into a life of anxiety and panic attacks. But I need to turn to God now….I can’t keep doing this on my own.
♥️
I actually looked up & downloaded this app for my sister in law. But here, already on this first session of my first study, I can see God meant it for my heart too.
I picked this study because I feel like God is asking me to live in this season of paradox (Mourning & Dancing) for a bit.
My 22 year old Sister in Law recently got diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and starts chemo treatments in 3 days.
I live every day with the desire to be a wife & mother that I believe God has placed deep within my heart but has not granted yet.
I had to let go of a friendship that God asked me to step away from and I’m fighting to keep an old bestie one alive.
Pain & struggle is a part of life. God is teaching me to be okay in the unknown, the unclear, the unexpected.
He is teaching me that it’s okay to be honest with my feelings. To admit them and own them even as I submit them to Him.
I believe He may be teaching me a deep truth at the intersection of abiding hope amidst broken-heartedness.
But if I won’t let myself be fully broken, if I put on a mask or try too hard to be strong in my feeble power then how can God ever truly cleanse me and empty me so He can fill me?
And at the end of the day, could it be that He gives me the choice..”How broken do you want to be? How cleansed do you really want to be? How close to Me do you really want to be? Do you really want to know Me in My suffering?
How full do you want to be?”
Isn’t that an interesting paradox? That even while He’s emptying us, breaking our hearts, He’s also pulling us close, comforting us, teaching us of His goodness, binding us up and imparting more of His heart?
Wow Stephanie that past paragraph was so powerful. Something to think on hard today. Glad to see we’ll be going through this study together!
Back in March at my first ultrasound I learned that I had lost my baby…. it definitely was tragic. The first couple of months were terrible, and I felt like I had thrown myself into a pit, and did not know how to get out. I saw posts online of pregnant women, watched it with my own two eyes in public of babies with their moms, and even watched my ownsister grow bigger as her little girl grew in her womb.
I was a mess.
I was a mess also because I had gotten pregnant out of wedlock, lost the respect of my mother, and had a boyfriend who did not respect my time of healing.
What have I done? How did I get here? I was the girl who said she would wait till she was married, but now look at me. I’m the girl who got pregnant, and then lost.
It was truly heartbreaking, and I was so mad at God. I often found myself having conversations with him, and asking “why! Why would you create life just to take it away!”
However, after months of healing and finding my way back to God, I have overcome one of life’s greatest heartbreaks. Over the summer I felt grace from God in the post profound way, and I have felt his love and mercy ever since. He did not make me go through all this pain to punish me, he was there on the cross crying right along with me. I realized that even though I lost my little girl (I truly believe it was a girl), when she first opened her eyes she did not see me…. but she saw the eyes of Jesus.
My savior has brought life back into my life, in the matter of my soul, and that is amazing.
I remember a month ago holding my sister’s baby girl for the first time and I heard God whisper “one day, beloved. I promise, you will receive this gift one day.”
There is a season for everything… and whatever the reason was, I wasn’t ready to be a mother. But I heard God’s promise…. and one day, I will be, with the right person.
♥️ God bless, ladies.
Brenna,
I’m glad to see that I am not alone. I as well had a plan in my life, marriage and then a baby. Unfortunately, I lost both a 4 year relationship and my baby. I am glad to see that you are healing. Sadly, I feel that I am still in the pit you were speaking of. Every time I look online, it’s like someone else is pregnant or posting pictures of there new baby. I still have moments were I am so angry at God for punishing me. It feels like something just constantly has to go wrong.
I pray for more healing and time. Excited to continue this study with you ❤️
Kayla
Kayla,
Oh I know exactly how you feel, and I wish I could give you a big hug and whip you up a nice hot coffee. The loss of a child at any stage of life is incredibly hard. It does get easier, but the pain will still always be there.
However, one of the biggest healings that has gotten me through this was the realization that Jesus was the first face my baby ever got to see. Which if you just take a moment and reflect on that is so powerful and wonderful. I understanding how this event is heartbreaking and you feel like you cannot escape it. But I promise you, you can. Jesus was there, crying right along side of you, and he still is. He is holding you in his arms and it going to get you through this. He loves you, and promises to give you dancing in this time of mourning.
I’ll be praying for you ♥️♥️- Brenna
My boyfriend broke off our relationship yesterday for us to chase God separately and hopefully reunite at a finish line, God willing. Although all day I have mourned and struggled with grief of the passing of our relationship, I should be rejoicing that we are both now sprinting towards God.
I have not been able to accept that my dear mom is gone. 3 months now, and I cannot say the words “she’s gone” I am in denial. And therefore I cannot mourn like I need to and it hurts so bad.
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I mourn over my long distance relationship all the time when In fact I should be rejoicing for the wonderful memories we have and make together! As said there is a time to mourn but not everyday. I enjoyed this devotion. I really needed it
This is a good but hard lesson. One I am still learning. My son is 18 months old and has half a heart, he has had two open heart surgeries, one emergency air lift, has had a gtube, and spent most of his first five months either in the hospital or in critical condition. I learned in the first three months of his life living in a constant state of fear and joy. Fear we would lose him, and we came close, and joy at so many beautiful milestones and at his life. God sees us struggling wth both. It’s ok to acknowledge before him the grief and the joy, the life and the death. He listens. He draws us close, comforts us in our fear and death, rejoices with us with the hope and joy.
Gosh. I’m speechless at how perfectly this hits home for me. I’m mourning the loss of my baby. Today was particularly hard. I struggle with the questions “why her”, “why me”, “why us”? I believe that God’s plan is perfect, but it’s so hard not to be mad when his plan veers so off course from the plan that I had in my head and in my heart.
I’m struggling in exactly the same way. Today is a hard day.
I happened upon your post and had to stop here. I am in the early process of learning to mourn/lament so I can then dance. Thanks for this great resource. I will be passing it on.
At the urging of friends I am writing my story of walking with the Triune God through years of internal terror. At 73 the terror continues to rage within my body. As I’ve been posting each “page” of my story I learn of more and more children of God who are suffering similar, but different types of internal pain. It is hard to share this pain because within the Family of God people are so quick to judge. I know, I learned to suffer in isolation. Many are doing the same.
It is my prayer my story will give them the courage and encouragement to come to the place they are able to mourn all the losses and be freed to dance. That they will learn they can tell their story and still be loved.
http://www.myrefinersfire.com/forward/
I am mourning the loss of my father to suicide. He was 79 and ended his life on March 20th. Please pray for my family as we navigate through this very difficult time. I know that God will bring good from this as I seek his comfort and peace.
Laura your whole family is my prayers! I hope you find some peace.
I’ve experienced a lot of loss in my life: my brother when I was 15, my other brother at 20 and now my best friend at 30. I commended myself in the past for being strong and not needing anyone’s help to grieve through the loss. The latest loss has truly disoriented me. I’m learning to bend my knees and listen. I believe God has led me to this devotional, to my church and to his side. For there is a time for sorrow and a time for joy; but just as I am joyous with my supporters I should be sorrowful with them as well.
We found out 5 days ago that we miscarried. Unknown to me, the Lord had been preparing my heart to know how to praise Him in the midst of our toughest time. God led me to this devotional, and I pray that each and every one of us can find healing, and dance again! He is good!
Going through the same thing, Elizabeth. Some days I feel strong, others I feel very very weak. But these days have pressed me into the Lord and that alone is a blessing. I cling to the truth that He works all things for good for those called according to His purpose. Even something like what we’ve been going through.
i chose this devotional because my community has suffered the loss of 3 of my fellow high school classmates to a car accident and suicide since May. i’m hoping i can spread word to grieving friends that God is still good through the pain.
just lost my 2nd precious baby to heaven. i am feeling so much more anger this time… i am empty armed and aching for my 2 children. Why God?
I needed this. My mother almost died a year ago and things have never been the same. She suffered a traumatic brain injury and I feel like my whole world has fallen apart since. Siblings can’t handle it and have moved on, my father is not the same father I remember. I often feel like I am going through this alone. I can’t help but cling to what once was and wish I could go back
I picked this devotional to read as I’m coping with mine and my husband’s loss of our first child, a baby boy, that we lost at 40 weeks and 3 days on June 15. We found out on June 14th that he had no heartbeat and delivered the next morning. I’ve had a lot of loss in my life, including my mom unexpectedly when I was 16, then my best friend when I was 23, just 4 years ago, and this has by far been the absolutely hardest on my heart. I’ve never cried so steadily, just randomly too. The feeling of loss is familiar, but this is just a longing ache that I have. I believe it’s because our identities shift to mothers and when we can’t fulfill the motherly instincts and tasks, there is an empty desire that we don’t know how to fulfill without holding and caring for our little one. I am with you, I know they are in the place of perfection with the One who we long to meet one day, and will never cry nor get tired nor get hungry, but that doesn’t mean tears still won’t come…a lot at that. Trying to focus on the many positive and hopeful things we hope the future holds.
Prayers to all who are dealing with loss of their children, my heart aches and is with you.
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your story. We just lost our first child after finding no heartbeat due to Turner Syndrome. I have been avoiding opening this app for weeks and this morning was the first time I did and chose this devotion and when I flipped over to the comments yours is the first I saw. Thank you for being an encouragement.
It is 3AM. I am in the dark waiting room next to the dark room where my young husband is sleeping. We are waiting on the diagnosis from his bone marrow biopsy. We expect leukemia. I needed to read reminders of my Lord tonight to get me to dawn and the continued waiting. We’ve been married six years in August. He was a track star and incredible all around athlete. Now he can barely walk. I hold brokenness in my two hands knowing my God is the only one who can heal. He is the One who overcomes the world. The One thing that remains.
How I wish I could be beside you. I have been where you are. My husband was 35, diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. I had never been so broken, but God…He proved himself faithful. Things did not go as I prayed, but that doesn’t mean God wasn’t there, or that He didn’t care. It has now been 15 months since my husband went home to his Saviour, and it is not easy, and yet God is still faithful and holds me. Continue to give Him your brokenness, your fears, thank Him for the peace only He can give. I will pray for you. If you want to, here is my email address. [email protected]
Thank you Kira. He was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It has been a hard two weeks. But he has been like a light in the oncology floor, loving the patients and the staff, full of laughter and joy despite all this. Every night he prays for all the other patients. He is an amazing man of God. I am so honored he chose me. I’m so sorry for your loss…I can’t imagine the grief you are still going through. My prayers are for you now, too.
I am mourning the loss of someone I loved and a future I won’t have with him. We have endured so much over the past three years together, and after spending some time apart, reconnected. I was so sure it was meant to be; now I’m in the same place I was a year ago. I feel I haven’t moved forward at all. I feel hopeless, hurt, and alone. I hope this devotional will bring me closure and peace. I hope it will make me a stronger woman.
I relate to this devotional on such a real level, as I just lost my first child, a boy, in what sounds like the same circumstances as you. My body served as his life support until our day in April as well. God gives us peace beyond understanding, and I have joy knowing my son is living with our Savior in absolute perfection. He will never hurt. He will never cry. He will never have to see or face death. Praise the Lord!
I will learn to dance even in the days my mourning overwhelms me.
He will sustain us through disasters.
Keep your eyes on Jesus the author and finisher of our faith!
I think lately I’ve found that I’ve lost myself to this world. I’m mourning myself. Who I built up to be, who I wanted to be, who I am. Im ready for a detox. To find my core again.
As a new college graduate it can be hard making a way in life. Especially when I feel God is directing me a certain way, but every step I take leads to another closed door. It is very disheartening and leads to all types of depression. This devotional has helped remind me that it will eventually pass. It gives me joy in the midst of sadness and discouragement. Thank you<3
Kristen, I can absolutely relate to you. The reasons you said are the same reasons I’ve started this study. I’m also a recent college grad and have encountered closed door after closed door. My faith has always been strong and I’ve always believed that a closed door is just another way that God leads us. But this season has been so much harder than I knew it would be and my faith has wavered like it never has before. I have struggled with feeling depressed and hopeless. When you’re in the middle of it all it’s hard to believe that God will bring you through to the other side and that there is purpose and hope in the here and now. Thank you for sharing what’s on your heart; it’s encouraged me.
Just days ago, my dearest cousin gave birth to her first child, a beautiful little girl. Hours later, however, my cousin went to be with our Savior. It has been difficult to process and bear this tragedy. Thank you for preparing this devotional for those grieving. Thank you for the reminder that God embeds pure joy amidst deep sorrow.
I picked this devotional out because I’m trying to navigate my parents possible divorce. What has been a difficult marriage throughout my childhood has once again reached a tipping point.
I can only continue to love them both but it is hard to see them both in so much pain. I know I can find my hope in Christ but I pray my parents can find that as well and make steps forward whether separated or not.
Over the course of 6-8 months, I have experienced so much grief from loved ones passing away. Several months ago, I lost a close friend from a freak accident in which he was hit by a car. The man is still on the loose and it breaks my heart that something so horrible could happen to someone that I loved. Honestly, it’s hard to remain positive in such a trying time in my life. I feel like I am just a zombie because I feel so hurt and empty. It’s hard to see how I can rejoice from something so tragic. These past few months have honestly pushed me away from God. I don’t hear from him when I pray and he is just silent. Yet, I still hold on to the hope that one day God will answer my prayer of healing in my life. I know he will come through, like he always has. Please say a prayer for comfort for me. Thanks.
Almost two years ago, my husband lost his job. Since then, we have struggled and fought to make ends meet. We ended up moving several hours away from all of our family and friends, believing that we were following God’s path for our lives. Since then, it seems as though our trials are steadily increasing. My grandfather passed away very unexpectedly the first time he and my grandmother came to visit us here and watch my daughter’s school Christmas program. A side business that we have seems to be failing, and our finances are majorly lacking because of it. I’m currently a work-at-home mom, but I am now looking for a job outside of the home, which would cause us to put our daughter in daycare every day. We have been on the brink of bankruptcy for months.. It seems as though we will never get relief, but I am trusting as completely as I know how that God will provide. I know He will never forsake us and that He hasn’t forgotten us. If you are reading this, please whisper a prayer for us in this season of our lives.
I developed an anxiety disorder around 11 months ago after a season of very high stress, anxiety, and depression. It is known as depersonalization disorder, which has led to me feeling emotionally detached and disconnected from reality for almost a year. I’ve gone through almost every stage of grief except for acceptance and have found it so hard to grieve and see God’s goodness or to even reconnect with the love I once felt for Him. I feel almost selfish asking God to lift this nasty fog in my life because I feel like all I’ve been able to give Him has been the worst of myself–anger, sadness, hopelessness, and a faith so small that it’s only brought me to question if God is real, or why he would allow me to suffer through something so big. I struggle with being honest about where I’m at and with allowing myself to be loved by a compassionate Father in heaven. Please pray for my heart, my soul, my mind and my strength. I would hope that this would be something to build my faith, but I’m still trying to grieve through my own personal hell without thinking of how my pain is meant to glorify Christ and impact his kingdom and I feel ashamed about that.
Absolutely praying for you, friend. Asking the Lord to bring you joy through His Word and to be your strength. This is a difficult season to endure, but He is right there with you. So grateful for you.
– Stormye
Praise God you can feel. That you have experienced joy. That you can long to feel again emotions you once experienced. God will see you through, and by His grace you will one day be able to walk along side another in a way few can, because you have walked in their shoes. He truly doesn’t give us more than we can handle and how can we fathom the mind of God?. But this I know- and you will too – no matter how dark the path, He is ALWAYS there next to you, loving you, feeling your pain. My journey is similar yet distinct. I have seemingly little ability to experience any emotion – positive or negative. As my children grow they are finding it increasingly difficult to connect with their mom emotionally. It breaks me heart to see them hurt. My journey is trying to connect with pain that is buried so deep I can’t even recall it. I experience anxiety attacks without understanding their cause. But I know I am a child of the God of healing and one day I will experience fullness of joy – and so will you!
I read this morning stopping between sentences to sob and cry out to God. I am so broken, as I recently discovered my 16 year old daughter is suffering with an eating disorder. This has shocked and devastated our family. My other children are angry, sad, and feel helpless. My husband and I are angry and are taking it out on each other. My heart is broken that my child is suffering. But through this I pray for comfort and know God will use this for good. I have no earthly comprehension of God’s love for us, when I think of how must have it felt for Him to watch His one and only Son suffer the greatest suffering on this earth. My heart is heavy, I can barley breath watching my daughter suffer. I pray for this to pass, our faith to strengthen, and for our family to dance again!
Oh, friend. I am so, so sorry to hear that you and your family are going through this. Asking the Lord to heal your daughter and to be strength to your family in this time of heartbreak. So grateful for you, Kari.
– Stormye
My husband was arrested last Tuesday for financial issues related to his law practice. That Tuesday, I never knew my world would end and the worlds of our 4 babies would be changed forever. As men took things from my home, and told me my husband was being arrested at his office, I stood in the rain and I cried out to Jesus. I was in shock and the only words I could utter were “Jesus help me.” Our entire world is in upheaval, and I cry everyday for the life we once knew. But every single day, His miracles have astounded me. As I visited my precious husband for the first time, in a place and situation that I never dreamed I would be in in ten million lifetimes, the people that stood in the gap numbered in the hundreds. And after our visit, where I saw his face, pounds lighter and heavy with grief, I walked out of that jail to the most glorious rainbow covering the sky from end to end. Because I’m dancing through mourning, and He sees me. It’s rained for a week straight, more rain than we’ve had in months and months. Jesus weeps with us, I believe that, and I believe His promises are that we will see great majesties from great tragedies if we let go and give Him our circumstances. This reading, it made me cry and sob with the joy that this crisis will only bring my faith to perfection. That my babies will grow in Christ through the loss of their father. Because there’s nothing too dirty that He can’t make worthy.
Please pray for my babies. Me. My husband. He’s a good man with sin, no different than any of us.
I am so sorry to hear about this time in your life, Tricia. Please know we are praying for you and your sweet family and asking the Lord to give you strength in this time. Grateful for you, friend.
– Stormye
My daughter died last month at 26 months old. It’s hard to make sense of the world and understand how this is fair. I know God had her days numbered before she was born but it doesn’t make it easier to deal with. She was born with the odds stacked against her. The doctors told us she wouldn’t make it through her first month of life. We were given so much more time than we could have imagined when she was born, but it doesn’t make it easier to say goodbye. The only comfort I feel is knowing I will see her again in heaven. I long for the day we will be reunited. It’s hard to imagine having true joy again in a world where she isn’t here.
Oh, Erin. I am so sorry to hear of this loss. Praying for you in this devastating time of grief and sadness and asking the Lord to do more than you could ever imagine and to bring you joy through His Word as only He can. So grateful for you and so sorry for your loss.
– Stormye
There has been so much sorrow in my life lately. I’ve been mourning the loss of my health and that of my cousin’s health simultaneously. And then it happened. My cousin died last night. At 37 years old. It seems so cruel. So unfair. And yet, it times like this, when I turn for the Lord looking for comfort, I’m able to see the joy she brought to the world. And from that, can see the joy that is in our world. I’m not there yet. There is still a hard pit in my stomach. But I know, if I keep turning to him, I will again experience all the joyous gifts He has so graciously given to me. They are everywhere, I just need to let them in.
Oh, Danette. I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet cousin and friend. Asking the Lord to bring you unimaginable comfort in this time of grief and sadness. So grateful for you and asking God to restore your health as well.
– Stormye
My husband and I have been trying to conceive for almost 2 years now. I have PCOS (poly-cystic ovarian syndrome), which makes getting pregnant difficult. Most of my friends have gotten pregnant and given birth over the past 2 years, and each pregnancy announcement brings its own twinge of pain along with my heart-felt excitement and joy for the new parents. The heaviest blow came this past Friday, when my sister-in-Law gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. I felt such joy at seeing her as they wheeled her into the nursery. At the same time, I felt an overwhelming sense of pain and despair at my own barrenness. I know that God’s plan is perfect; His timing is perfect. But some days my heart just cries out in anger and discouragement. Though I’ve only read the first day of this particular devotion, it has already been a great encouragement and reminder of the love God has for me and others who struggle with infertility. He knows the plans He has for me, He hasn’t forgotten me, and His plan for my life will ultimately be for my good and His magnificent glory. Thank you, SRT, for letting the Lord use you to encourage so many, and for being so transparent with your own stories!
Praying for you in this season of sadness, Kali. Grateful for your vulnerability in this time. Grateful for you.
– Stormye
The night before Thanksgiving I lost one of my Best friends from High school. She wis hit by a car while biking home from work. I found out Thanksgiving day. While everyone was giving thanks all I wanted to do was cry. There are times that I feel this war in me now. This war of being okay one day and wanting to cry the next.. Sometimes I feel fine. Then something reminds me of her and sometimes i can smile at or I will cry. Since losing her, I can’t even begin to explain how mixed in emotions I am. I don’t want to feel the pain but I know I need to. It’s like I know in my head what I “should do”. But don’t feel that in my heart. I want to be angry, but I know I should forgive and God’s plan is good. I know that she is in heaven, and I can rejoice in that, but I so desperately just want her here. Sometimes I wander what she would do in my shoes. Death isn’t one emotion. It’s a hurricane of emotions that seem to wage war and mix everything you know up. I don’t even feel like I know how to mourn her.
Oh, sweet Jordan. I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and asking the Lord to help you through this time of mourning and grief and to continue to comfort you in His Word. Thank you for sharing.
– Stormye
I lost my daughter on Saturday and opened this devotional yesterday. Thank you for writing the words I am feeling and unable to articulate. Praying that God wraps his arms around my heart and my sweet Harper Rae is dancing by his side.
Oh, sweet friend. Praying for you now. I am so sorry that you are experiencing this. Asking the Lord to bring you unimaginable comfort in this time of grief and loss. So grateful for you.
– Stormye
This season of my life has been filled with this tension. We lost my grandmother in March, my nephew was stillborn at 25 weeks in April, and my grandfather died of cancer on Monday. There is an ache for them in my soul and yet a water fountain of joy for their souls which get to dance forever with Jesus. The rotation of sadness and joy is constant. Grateful to have found this outlet to dig into scripture and find my bearings.
Holly, I am so sorry to hear of these losses. So grateful that you are able to find joy in the Lord in this time of grief and sadness. Praying for you.
– Stormye
I also had a daughter die while I made plans for her birth. Lucy Elizabeth was born 5-13-17 and the last two weeks have been the hardest of my life. I have moments of joy with my family but the haze of birth, getting my milk to dry up, planning a small service, is clearing and I am left with the acute reality that my daughter will never take air into her lungs. There is comfort in my faith and the words of the Bible but the ache is so deep. I know my time in this void is not permanent and in many ways, it is very necessary. When I found out I was pregnant with Lucy I dropped to my knees to thank God for her and the blessing of a child. Now I return to my knees to pray for guidance and comfort because this pain is certainly too heavy a burden to carry alone.
There aren’t words for the pain you’re living with now. I’m praying for you.
Oh, sweet Sarah. I am so sorry for the loss of your little girl. Praying for you in this time of grief and sadness. So, so grateful for you and for a heavenly Father that sees us in our pain and cares for us.
– Stormye
I suffered a miscarriage last week. I’m really holding onto Gods grace. Thank you for sharing your story as I journey though mine.
I’m in the same situation as you, Kaylen. Mine happened on Friday. Through all the pain, my heart still reminds me that God is good. Praying for you.
Praying for you, sweet friend. So sorry for your loss. Asking the Lord to bring you comfort and peace in this time of sadness and grief.
– Stormye
It’s been 2 weeks since my boyfriend and I broke up. We dated for 10 months. He struggled with anxiety and depression pretty badly and it was taking a toll on our relationship. When we first got together we prayed and asked God if this was right and we both felt as though He was saying it was. It felt so right at first, but ever since the fall it has just been a downward spiral of him believing the lies the devil is feeding him. He changed into a completely different person. We came to a point multiple times where we weren’t sure if God wanted us to be together, and this last time we broke up. I have a feeling the Lord is going to work in his life very soon, I just pray that he allows Him to. He is an awesome person and I know the Lord has great things planned for him. Please, sisters in Christ, pray for him. I know he is so close to surrendering all of this anxiety to God. Pray that the Lord would break down the walls of his heart and allow him to receive His love. I’ve never prayed for someone so much in my life. I just know we need to be apart for this next season in our lives, although it’s hard. It’s just hard caring so much about someone and not talking to them. Thank you all.
Praying for you and for him, Kayla. Thank you for sharing – you have such a beautiful and caring heart and that is evident through this post. So grateful to have you in the SRT community.
– Stormye
I just had to kick my older sister out of my house. She’s been using meth and heavily manipulating my husband and myself. I’m devastated she reverted back to drugs and terrified she’ll end up back in prison. Or dead. I feel powerless and weak. This devotional has been so helpful in understanding gods mercy and timing.
Oh, Sarah. Praying for you in what has to be a difficult time. Asking the Lord to rescue your sister from this and to redeem your relationship with one another. So grateful that you shared today.
– Stormye
Wow. There truly is a time for everything. My husband and I are currently mourning the loss of our baby girl, who we named Jordan, as a symbol of not yet crossing the river into parenthood (at least not how we wanted). We want to be parents more than we can explain, and the death that has gripped my womb is more painful than I care to think about. But to imagine that the first thing she saw when she opened her eyes was the face of our Savior, it’s something I rejoice over daily. Today, I am clinging to the promise of Psalm 30:11-12, “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever.”
Abba, make me a vessel for YOUR glory. May my trials have come so that the proven genuineness of my faith may result in praise, honor, and glory when YOU are revealed.
This was beautiful, Katherine. Thank you so much for sharing something so encouraging in the midst of a time of loss. Praying for you and your husband.
– Stormye
I decided to try this devotional because the past 5 months of my life have been a complete roller coster. 5 months ago I lost my dad to cancer. When that happened I lost all faith. Loosing a parent young is probably one of the hardest things to ever go through. Then 4 weeks ago I lost my grandmother. She lived with my family and I for the past 10 years and we have watch her health just plummet. I am praying that this devotional will help me through my pain and bring me back to the word. I have felt so lost since I lost my dad.
Praying for you, Mariah. Asking the Lord to be present in your pain and grief and to draw you close through His Word. I am so sorry for your losses.
– Stormye
Losing loved ones is very hard. That was the second hardship I was faced with growing up, the first one was my parents divorcing exactly one year before I started going to family funerals or family friends funerals. It’s hard, and our soft hearts are hard to keep soft. When we get lost in the emotion and pain and suffering, that’s where healing begins. I went through Job not that long ago and I must tell you, I felt some of the pain and terrible terrible sufferings he went through and still praising God is amazing. Job 5:17-19 really impacted me. I hope you look it up. I lost a set of twin classmates recently, one died and a year later on the same day, the other twin just recently took his life and I thought to myself, why??? Why wouldn’t he turn to God? Why would he do this to his family? Why why why??? It was hard for me to understand. When I was young I didn’t like that I was born but I never would have been able to take my life. I knew how it would impact everyone I loved and knew and I used to beg that God would just take me young, which He didn’t and He has blessed me and taken me away from all of the family operations and sufferings with living with my family. I hope you’ll see God’s hand move in this struggle. I hope that my message helps you see God’s goodness and helps open the blinds upon your eyes. I will be praying for you!
I picked this devotional Bc I am at a place of great morning, and trying to navigate peace and happiness in the midst of it. My dad passed away two weeks ago and my heart feels broken missing him. But at the same time, I know he is in heaven, and I know God is comforting me and holding me close in the midst of this pain. I thought this might help me in my understanding and reflection of losing a parent at a young age.
Praying for you in this time of loss, sweet friend. So grateful the Lord has brought you comfort in this hard time. Asking Him to continue to draw you in and remind you of His presence in the midst of your pain. So grateful for you, Brooke.
– Stormye
I just started this study with my husband (he’s doing the He Reads Truth version) as we wait for the Romans study to begin. I picked it because at our church we know how to rejoice…but we don’t mourn well…in fact, we don’t mourn…but there are so many hurting people there I wanted to learn this better.
I think you’ve done a great thing with this study. I want to rest in each day as I progress and allow God to heal the broken parts of my heart. And then I hope to help others do the same.
Thank you!
Glad to have you and your husband reading along, Beth!
– Stormye
I suffered with depression and suicide for almost 4 years. The age of 12 to 15. I tried killing myself 3 times because I didn’t think I was worthy of Living. I thought I was an inconvenience to my family and friends, to the world. God freed me of that on November 12th, 2015. I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome about 2 weeks ago. I’m not even 18 yet. I know God will heal me, because he already won the victory. I know this is just warfare, God allows things to happen, he doesn’t cause them to happen. But God sure did write a suspense/drama book just for me. She reads truth has helped me so much in my walk with Lord. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing, Rebekah! So grateful for you and your testimony. Asking the Lord to continue to draw you near and to reveal more of Himself to you through His Word!
– Stormye
Praying for you Rebekah!
Your story touched me. Keeping you in mind and praying that the lord continues to provide you with strength:)
We lost my 2 1/2 month old niece to SIDS on Thursday. I’m struggling and so glad I got my She Reads Truth Bible and found this study too. My family needs prayers and peace.
Malia, praying for you and your family in what can only be an extremely devastating and heart-wrenching time. Asking the Lord to bring comfort and peace.
– Stormye
So sorry for your loss malia, I lost my identical twin to sids when she was only 2 months old. It’s been 24 years and ievery day is still a struggle but I know she is in a better place. Praying for and your family that the lord gives you strength and guidance to over come this and he pours out his love on you!
Have any of you watched the show “This is us”? It is AMAZING! The first episode a baby is lost.. and an old man at the hospital comes and sits down next to this shocked and mourning young man and says “can I try to say something profound?” The young man nods his head. The old man presses on telling him about his first child and how he lost him.. that loss inspired him to become a doctor that delivered babies and he has delivered and saved so many babies lives he had lost track… in his words he tools some sour lemons and made lemonade with them. That’s what our God does with us. :)
I once knew a friend that had lost her father at a young age. It happened long before I knew her and so I hadn’t really seen her mourn his loss much before. I just knew it was hard. Not having lost really anyone before I didn’t grasp really how hard it was.. fastforward a few months and we were all in youth group.. a member of our youth group had his father unexpectedly die.. I immediately started crying watching the pain on this boys face.. I was hurting this much and I couldn’t even comprehend what he was going through…
My friend.. who had been too shy to go up and lay hands and pray with anyone.. I realized she had snuck up behind him with her hand on his shoulder weeping alongside him.. she understood!!! She understood his pain more than anyone else there. She was only there for a short time and just for a such a time as this.. what a blessing she was to that boy! She prayed for him and encouraged him and even though that’s something I would hope no one would have to face.. it was beautiful how God brought life out of death with that situation. So beautiful.
Praise you Lord.
Beautiful story, Brittany. I think about my parents dying and how I will cope with it. These thoughts help me to appreciate and celebrate our relationship even more, but I know that when I do lose someone I love, the loss will be overcome with Christ’s love through the process. It breaks my heart as I await for these changes to occur in my life but it is a big part of life.
“Because of Christ, life comes from death.”
Amen!!! Hallelujah!!!!
We lost our newborn son unexpectedly to heart defects and sepsis on Christmas Eve. I have struggled with where to turn in my bible. For four months, I have craved truth and didn’t know where to start. Today I “stumbled” upon this.. no accident and perfect timing. Praise God!
Jordan, praying for you in this difficult and heart wrenching time. So thankful to provide a resource to help you encounter the Lord through His Word in the midst of your pain. So grateful for you.
– Stormye
Praying for you Jordan. God is so good how He works out those beautiful intricacies. It was divine and intentional purpose that brought you here. Rejoice in your new healing journey. God has heard your cries and He mourns with you.
Currently in a stage of trials – anxiety and depression have really taken a toll on my everyday living. I’m only in high school, and I know it’s a phase, but the emptiness and loneliness I feel is crippling. I’m numb. I’m tired. I needed comfort, I needed scripture that could help me mourn for the loss of my once lively spirit, and this devotion gave me that. It gave me a hope – it gave me hope that god will come through and restore me. That seasons are very real, but just as winter is cold, summer is warm, and summer indeed WILL come, no matter how cold this winter of mine is. Thank you for this.
Praying for you in this, Noel. Asking the Lord to bring peace and comfort in a time that feels dark. Grateful for you.
– Stormye
Hi Noel! I too have gone through a season of winter. It was a very long winter. I thought it might never end. But every day I see a little bit of summer. This Sunday at church as we were all worshiping together I had this image of someone raisin their hands and crying out to the Lord. This woman first had her hands raised down low by her hips, next about at shoulder length and lastly straight up in the air with no reservations. The Lord told me this is us as christians. We can have as much as we desire. We can have a little taste.. a medium sized portion.. or enough to make our bellies hurt (in a good way).. I challenge you Noel to seek out local groups for support, if you have sin in your life, no matter how small.. bring it out of the darkness and into the light so it can be vanquished. Repent, turn from your ways.. in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight… a double minded man is unstable in all his ways.. but you don’t have to be.. if you know you want the Lord God above all else.. go for it girl. Cut loose whatever’s holding you back. To God be the glory forever and ever amen!
Praying for you Noel. I’m a college student and I felt those things as well in high school. You are not alone, remember God is with you through these trials and he will bring you out of them one day
I just broke up with my boyfriend of 2 years. Needing prayer and hope that I can overcome the pain. Joy comes in the morning, I know, but it doesn’t heal the right now. Just needing love.
Praying for the healing of that sweet heart of yours. Breakups are never easy, but the Lord is an incredible love and strength in times of pain and heartache. Grateful for you, Fallon!
– Stormye
My husband and I need prayer if you all wouldn’t mind. Things are bad.
Praying for you and your husband, Jaime.
– Stormye
I feel like a weight has been lifted off my chest. We often hear that we shouldn’t let our hearts be troubled; faith will fix everything; we can’t be sad if we know Jesus. Hearing that mourning is okay was very needed today, in the midst of mourning and feeling guilty for it.
Amen! So good to hear!
Been in mourning since a sister in Christ passed just a few short days ago. Glad I found not only this devotion but this community of believers.
Praying for you in this time of loss and grief, dear friend. So glad you’re here.
– Stormye
I needed this today as I’ve been grieving and feeling so lost. Miscarrying my first baby and being in disbelief while everyone around me is becoming pregnant. Trying to dance with them as I grieve for my husband and I. Thank you for sharing about a topic that isn’t talked about much. Reminding me that even though this world is broken our God is constant, good and true.
Praying for you in your heartache, Keely. Thank you for sharing. Asking the Lord to bring comfort and peace like only He can.
– Stormye
Keely, praying for you tonight. I’m so sorry and pray for peace that only Christ can give.
Keely, I will be praying for both you and your husband. I have not had a miscarriage, but by husband and I are having a difficult time with infertility. I am surrounded by friends getting pregnant and finding it hard to rejoice with them as I mourn.
I’m in mourning right now. I’m late for this devotion but it’s here now
Praying for you, sweet friend.
– Stormye
I appreciate this study and your willingness to share. I had a miscarriage recently and am looking forward to the promise of our sorrow turning to joy.
Sweet Rene, praying for you in this time of sorrow. Thank you for sharing. Grateful for you, friend.
– Stormye
My younger brother passed away tragically 6 months ago. He was only 30, with a wife and baby girl. My pain is ever present, he’s in my mind always, yet I’m also raising my 3 kiddos with my husband and watching them love life and celebrate and laugh and I join in. I must, it’s such a strange irony. Feeling joy yet sadness so strong at the same time. Allowing my heart to grief and hurt while choosing to wake up and keep going and cry out to Jesus for joy and peace. It’s hard. But the Lord gives strength when I have none. And I have to find hope in His promises — that he counts every tear and will redeem this unbearable loss and turn it into something of lasting beauty.
Praying for your family, Melanie. What a hard thing to go through. Grateful for a God who gives strength when ours is gone. Grateful for you.
– Stormye
We too are in the midst of mourning and dancing. Last night as we left the hospital having just met a long awaited brand new baby, we reflected on the sadness of a relative just given a diagnosis with one year to live. I can’t imagine how anyone can overlook the reality of who God is at times like these. We are thrilled that the newborn is welcomed into a devoted Christian family. We are anxious as the friend is Jewish and may have little time to acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah. Prayers welcomed for him!
Elizabeth, praying for your sweet friend right now. Thank you for sharing.
– Stormye
Wow. Your story really hit home, as I remember the day before our daughter died. We thought our baby was healthy and that the pregnancy was going great. We had no idea what was coming that night…
Grieving has been a interesting process, but I’m thankful for your reminder to acknowledge the emotions and grieve, but also to celebrate beautiful life because God is still good and showers us with blessing after blessing.
For the past three months I have been mourning The loss of an almost relationship. It’s an odd feeling because sometimes I feel like my feelings are validated because we weren’t officially together. But I gave him my whole heart and I thought he had done the same. Not only were we more than friends for over two years, but he was my best friend. So I felt like I could never be loved or love anyone else. It was too scary to be that vulnerable. But God has a way of surprising me. He sent me someone else, a man I’ve known for most of my life. I don’t know what the future holds but I can tell that God is showing me to still have some hope. I just need to leave my future times of joy to Him.
My grandfather was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer this past fall. Although we had thought his health was improving, which it did for a while, his cancer has now grown since the very first time he went to the doctor. Thus, he has chosen to quit chemotherapy and stop fighting his battle with cancer, which gives him most likely a very short time to live. I’m Trying to find the balance between mourning during this time while still living life. The buzz of everyone else around me seems a personal assault, although I know it is not, when my world seems to have nearly stopped. Looking forward to this study and finding that balance–and hoping through it the Lord can guide me in this difficult time.
This devotion brings me such comfort , I have also lost my baby several weeks ago , this was our first pregnancy. I could not worship or pray as I was so broken that each time I open my mouth I cried. I see healing taking place in both my husband and I and find comfort in knowing because of Christ Life comes from death .
My 20 year old daughter has cut me out of her life for the past year in order to find herself and my Dad passed away a month ago. I feel so alone most days and mourn the relationship loss of my daughter and the physical loss of a parent. It is also overwhelming and heartbreaking. I am praying for Gods guidance in my life during this difficult time.
Michelle, praying for you in this lonely and devastating time. Asking the Lord to bring comfort and peace and to tend to your heart in the way only He can. Grateful for you.
– Stormye
I lost my mom to stage 4 breast cancer around Christmas time this last year. She fought for 6 long, excruciating, yet joyous years. I’m currently struggling with how to celebrate life and mourn at the same time. I’m looking forward to walking through this study.
My mother fought cancer for 8 years and passed 3 years ago around thanksgiving. I understand you so deeply. I am in so much pain learning how to live the amazing life I have alongside this overwhelming sadness. You are in my prayers.
I cannot imagine going though that. And what a beautiful heart felt passage you have written here.
I am not dealing with death but I am dealing with losing a relationship that I have cultivated for 7 years with someone I loved with all my heart.
I am mourning the living.
My heart is broken and I am mourning, this was the person I felt God was telling me I was meant to have a life with. I guess my ex partner didn’t feel the same.
This is going to help many people feeling broken in many different situations. Thank you for sharing this, prayers of healing and love to you and your family.
Kaitlin, praying for you this morning. Asking the Lord to heal your tender heart in this time of sadness and devastation. Grateful for you.
– Stormye
This is perfect. It sums up exactly how I feel and felt two months ago when I found out my baby had no heart beat. When I was delivering what I knew would be a lifeless baby. How can the world continue when I am in such mourning? How could I pick myself up and continue? I want my baby. I planned for and loved him. How could this be what God wanted for me? How could there be people going on with daily life and laughter when my heart hurt so much? Then my three year old walks in with crayons sticking out of her nose and says “Look mommy! I am a Walrus!” I laughed, really laughed. That is when I realized that God has given me just what I needed, I just have to be willing to look. To not let my mourning over shadow the dancing that has yet to be done. Because even though my heart breaks every time I think about never holding my son again, I remember that God is good. His plan is perfect. He always brings sunshine, I just need to remember to open the curtains. Thank you for this study. God comforts us so that we may comfort others, and you have done just that. Thank you.
Sarah, thank you for sharing this. So raw and beautiful. Please know we are praying for you and are so, so grateful for you.
– Stormye
I am mourning the loss of my father after his battle with brain cancer for 4 years. I have been mourning little losses over those four years. But now I miss my ‘old’ dad, the Dad before he was sick. I mourn a future that he is not in with me and my family. I’m so sad.
Sandy, praying for you right now. I am so, so sorry you’ve lost your father. Asking the Lord to bring you immeasurable peace and comfort in this time of sadness.
– Stormye
I know this seems minute to the stores shared here, but it’s my story nonetheless. My boyfriend of four months and I broke up 2 weeks ago. I know that’s not a long time to date, but I truly loved him. My heart is broken and I’m fearful for my future. He was my first boyfriend in 6 years. At the age of 25, I’m terrified I’ll be alone for another 6 years. I hope this devotional will help me get through the pain and rejection and fear that seems to be hanging over me.
Allison, praying for you in this. Heartbreak is never easy. Asking the Lord to be your comfort in this time and that you would feel His love stronger than you ever have.
– Stormye
Allison, believe me when I tell you that when you are weak He is strong. It’s okay to cry it’s okay to not be okay right now but just know that the Lord will get you through this season in your life. Much love!
I have been trying to work through the Lent study, but I just haven’t been able to engage myself in it, so I knew I needed to search for something else…. and then I remembered this study. This is right where I need to be right now. We lost my sweet Daddy almost three weeks ago to Lewy Body Dementia… it’s a painful heartbreaking way to watch your father leave this world. And now, as I’m typing this my sweet brother’s life hangs in the balance with the very same disease. I don’t understand, and yet I do. Why both of their seasons have to end fighting this very terrible disease, I do not understand… but that each life is only a season, I do understand. If you’re reading this, please pray for my sweet, sweet Mama. Imagine burying your husband, only to hear that it won’t be long until you bury your oldest son…. that, I don’t understand, but I’m so thankful that I can hope that His joy comes in the morning. We have been surrounded by so much care and love, and His timing has been perfect in all things, so I know He is faithful and He will continue to be faithful. I just pray Mama doesn’t lose hope. Once again, I am so thankful for SRT and the community I’ve found here!!
Cheri, praying for you and your family in this incredibly difficult time. Asking the Lord for comfort and peace for your mama and for you. We’re grateful for you.
– Stormye
Thank you for your prayers!
I am mourning the loss of my baby girl. She was born still at 41 weeks one week ago… I struggle to see the joy right now when I just want to hold my baby one more time and kiss her beautiful face. I know I will see it and I will rejoice and be thankful that my baby never experienced pain or suffering, but for now I sob.
I am so sorry for your loss. I will pray for you.
Cara, what a difficult and heart-wrenching time for you, friend. Praying for you in this time of devastation and loss. Asking the Lord to heal these wounds and to wrap you in His love. Thank you for sharing this.
– Stormye
What a beautiful reminder, right when the mourning and dancing are fighting for my attention. Jesus knows what we need. He holds our hearts. He’s not caught off guard.
This has been such a sweet start to my mourning journey. God knows exactly what we need.
I’m trying to deal with a diagnosis of an incurable brain tumour, with a possible life of up to 10 years. I’m all over the place! One minute I’m sure God will heal me totally, another I’m accepting that the best healing is death if you get me. Then I’m wondering how to live with a bomb in your head. Praying this study brings me some peace.
Trish, praying for you in this time. I can’t imagine what you are going through but am thankful for a Father who knows exactly what you are feeling and has already gone before. Praying for peace in this time of uncertainty. Grateful for you.
– Stormye
Not sure why it posted twice! Also want to say I’m blessed by reading everyone’s comments- knowing that I’m not alone in feeling darkness or heaviness sometimes. This life is really hard!!
I am mourning the death of my first pet; he died two weeks ago. When he died, I was shocked by the enormity of emotions I felt- I was kind of embarrassed by how hysterical I was. But I am not ashamed, now. I’ve realized just how big a role he’s played in my life and I’m so thankful I was his momma while he was here. He was a part of our family. But it is still hard- still hard not to see him daily. Our pets give us so much comfort and ask for so little in return. They are truly blessings from God!!
Jenny – praying for comfort in this time. Sorry to hear about your sweet friend’s passing! Animals really are such a comfort. Grateful for you!
My mother passed away nearly 3 years ago. I have not been the same person since. I immediately became calloused to the events and people around me. I don’t remember when I was last truly happy. My wonderful husband and my 4 year old twins have suffered from my lack of emotional availability. I see a psychiatrist regularly, but the medication can only do so much. Something was missing. My best friend, my confidant, my rock was gone. Taken from me and this earth too soon. I am bitter with myself for building my life while hers slipped away. She was ill, but I always felt that there was a tomorrow. One evening in all of my bitterness, after an emotionally charged and exhausting day, I slept. I awoke in a start to a dream of which I only remember the words “come to me.” It was then that I realized that I would not heal from this lest I rekindle my relationship with God. I am taking the first step in reading his word and in prayer. I know that in time he will allow me to bury my grief so that I may grow in him. My only question…when?
There is one joy in death, knowing your loved-one died in Christ. In time, the feelings and emotions of separating from one will turn to complete understanding in knowing your beloved is home with the Creator of it all. Earth truly does not hold anything that Heaven can not heal. The Word of God is real and enriching if allowed to soil your soul. Just as soil supports life on earth, the Wordvof God will support the broken spirit of one’s soul to bring life and hope for it to live again in joy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
I’m starting this study as I begin the mourning of my dying grandfather. My heart is so heavy and so broken and I am hurting so badly. Holding on to the promises of Him and trying to remember greater days are yet to come.
I am in the midst of mourning a failed 3 year relationship with a man I really loved. Even in the midst of verbal and emotional abuse I still hoped and prayed for change. We were going to start premarital counseling but all has changed & im left picking up the pieces trying to start anew. I’m hopeful that God will use this study to heal and restore.
I am just starting this study as I struggle through a failed marriage. I was thinking today how crazy I felt because I am learning to mourn but also feeling bad for feeling joy in the midst of all the sorrow. God will restore what is broken, of this I’m sure! Excited to dive into this study.
I am in a similar boat. My husband asked for a divorce this week after my revelation of truth. The truth needed to be set free about my two affairs because I was enslaved in deception and sin. I can honestly say that while I mourn, I can dance that I was freed and transformed before the Lord. I am now praying for a change of heart from my husband, that as he sees my life turn around that God called his family of four to be together under one roof to glorify His name.
Courtney, praying for you in this time. Grateful for you and your openness and that you’re a part of our community.
– Stormye
I don’t agree. Look at
http://blog.credit.com/2017/01/how-to-pay-off-your-holiday-debt-in-30-days-164287/
Best regards, Marvel
I’m walking through a failed adoption after raising my baby for almost 2 years. Just like that they took her, the emptiness is dark.
Sorry! I don’t know why it posted twice!
I never had a miscarriage but 5 years ago we “lost” our oldest son. At their request we had moved to their state to help them through a family crisis, but about 6-8 weeks later on something went wrong and our daughter-in-law didn’t want us there any more. We have never been able to figure out what happened! It has been like they have died to us! We can’t visit or communicate with them and they don’t visit or communicate with us. I have cried buckets of tears over this. I’m looking forward to what the Lord has to say to me through this study.
I found these passages super encouraging and right on point. We lost our baby girl when I was 6.5 months pregnant and although it happened months ago it’s still very painful. I lay awake crying for hours last night and it just felt like a black cloud over my heart for a little while. But I know God is there and he cares for us and in this world we will see trials.
So excited for this study, and all God will teach me and guide me through because of it. I chose it because we’ve experienced both recently, my husband and I. My dear Nan passed away in September after a 4 year battle with cancer. I miss her terribly, but I am certain that she is in the arms of Jesus, and for that reason I can have joy in my sorrow. We’re also expecting a baby, which we are over the moon about, but feeling sad that my Nan never got to know about it, she was so keen to know that we would have children. So, when I came across this study pack yesterday, I knew this was the one for me! Praising God for His faithfulness to us, through EVERY situation!
I can’t wait to really dig deep into this study. I have had such a horrible day with finding out that I do not meet the requirements for nursing school this fall. To some it may not seem like much, but to me, it has torn me apart. I have worked so hard for this. I have prayed and prayed all day, and ran across this app. God knows what you need and exactly when you need it ❤️️ prayers would be so appreciated as I figure out my next step in my journey.
Hi Jordan,
Don’t think of it as a set back but a way to sling you forward. You have to step back a couple of steps in order to be fling forward to bigger and greater things. Every step back means you’re getting closer to what God has in store for you. Your plan maybe great but God’s plan is even BETTER.
Jordan I am in nursing school currently. If it makes you feel any better I did not get in the first time I applied. I will finish this next fall. God has a perfect timing and place for everything. Maybe He is preparing you still. It’s very hard and the ones that finish are the ones that never give up. It is my calling and I had to finish. You will get there in time. Remember baby steps. Hold close to Gods plan for your life.
I am just beginning this study…my hearts is so heavy. I separated from my husband at the end of October 2016. He killed himself December 1. My emotions are so complex. I miss him. I lost my mom three years ago in March to cancer, I am a nurse and I took care of her. My husband was a strong support for me through my grief. I thought losing my mom would destroy me. This has brought me so close to the edge.
My husband and I struggled, he had extreme anger and control issues but has such a wonderful heart. He hated what he battled with, he hated that I was afraid of him, that is why I left.
We both know the Lord, and both Love Jesus. Joey my husband was a seminary graduate and we were planning on adopting, going to the mission field, serving the Lord. We just wanted to work on the underlying issues first… i was afraid, lost hope, was angry and left. I have so many questions. I know he is healed now with our saviour but this pain is so intense , I am 29 he was 35, so much to do…this season has turned to one of great weeping , all prayers treasured
You are in my prayers and thoughts Chandler. May the Holy Spirit calm you in the storm of emotions going through you..
Prayers for peace and comfort your way, Chandler!
Chandler, my heart goes out to you. I can sense the sadness of the dreams you both had mixed with what happened- holding them both up, together, trying to understand. I feel like God wants you to know that it’s not over yet…..your life is currently not what you planned but God is in charge of writing your story- all we must do is continue to follow him. I can relate to your post in many ways. My husband is a brilliant man but has struggled with serious mental health issues and suicidal thoughts in the past- he had to go to a psychiatric unit for a week last year it got so bad. But somehow, God is not overwhelmed by our issues. It is like He sees past them and beyond them. What is so overwhelming to me is small to him. I feel like it is so painful for us to hold the brokenness and goodness of the world together but God is so good at that. It’s amazing to me. I think There is still good to be experienced in your life-and mine. There is still good to come. Praying for you.
I’m mourning the loss of my marriage and the brokenness of my family. My husband was abusive in every way except physical. I still feel like I could have done something to prevent this. He is telling people that his pain pill made him angry. What he doesn’t say is that he was also smoking pot all day, drinking alcohol frequently and taking mushrooms. I was not a happy person because I was dealing with so much. I wasn’t me, I was miserable. He was recently removed from my house by the sheriffs department and taken to a mental hospital. He blames that on me. When he was out of the house I felt chains breaking. Walking down the hall chains breaking. Walking into the kitchen chains breaking. I mourn the loss of my marriage and the brokenness of family but my son will not grow up seeing his dad intimidate his mother, break furniture, stand in the door way to block my exit. My son will grow up to respect women and that chain that was passed down to my husband will be broken and not passed down to my son.
Dearest Katie, I hope you know and rest in God’s abounding love for you. Men fall short. Although a chapter has ended I pray knowing Gods love and timing is without flaw will be your keepsake this week. Be ye encouraged, in this world we will have many troubles. Take heart, your lord has overcome them all.
This was exactly what I needed this week. I have had nothing but a bad week. One of my very close friends found out his father has brain cancer. I found out one of my grandfathers might have an aggressive cancer. Then Wednesday my other grandfather passed away suddenly. Mourning has been such a part of this week. These verse truly helped me realize how much I get to dance in the joy that will come. This week has been horrible but joy is coming and slowing coming back! ❤️
I couldn’t have stumbled upon this at a better time. I just broke up with my boyfriend of 3 years and even though it was the right thing to do, I am grieving the loss of him. My faith has never been as strong as it is in this present time and I can feel God making powerful changes in my life. With these trials and tribulations, I have now experienced the feeling of both mourning and dancing. It is heart breaking and difficult and uncertain but what thing that I’ve learned is that God will always be certain no matter what’s going on in my life & that is the greatest reason to dance and rejoice.
I love this!
I have been dealing with a lot of pain recently. I was in a car wreck the other day and the other man involved did not make it. It wasn’t my fault but I sure have been told it was my fault. I have people supporting me but then I also have people bringing me down. Over the weekend though I rested upon the fact that Jesus is my healer, comforter, and peace. This morning when I once again got told it was my fault, I lost that peace that I had until I read this devotion. Always hold on to the fact that God is our Hope and our Peace and everything above all else.
I lost my son to SIDS four months to the day. Four days after his baptism. He would be 4 in may. I needed all of this today. It’s been a rough season but this was a reminder that God is constant and He is there during every season. During every pit fall and out of the darkness comes a glorious light. His promise to us.
I needed this so much. My husband and I went through a very difficult patch in our marriage. I have yet to heal, as I do not know how… I feel like this devotional will inevitably help me.
My best friend’s 5 year old nephew passed away today from an inoperable and incurable brain cancer. In October he was given only 15 weeks to live, throwing his family into sorrow immediately. But it also had a way of creating joy as they spent more time loving him and each other, reuniting estranged family members and ex spouses. I stumbled upon this reading today “by chance” but clearly I was being guided by Him to read His word and find comfort. I know there will be much mourning to come, but there is also joy in the knowledge that Jesus will hold this little boy in His arms now that we no longer can.
A friend recently recommended this app to me. I’m very ashamed and vulnerable but decided to share anyway. On the 27th December 2016, my 3 year wedding anniversary, my husband told me that I am just not be the person he wants to spend the rest of his life with. He is now divorcing me without wanting to talk through anything. He simply says that he is done trying. I am heartbroken and lost. Thanks for the scripture ❤
Prayers for you Grethe!
This is just what I need. My mama is sick and there are issues with other family members that don’t value life in the same manner as I do. It has caused so much stress, grief, mourning, but NO DANCING! One of my sisters and I have really been struggling for at least a year now with how to balance the fight, grief, mourning, and care with what we know is God’s wishes for us..dancing, joy, peace, thankfulness. I am praying that reading studies like this will help keep my mind and thoughts on our Father and his desires for me…thank you!
Thank you so much for this…. my dad just passed away completely unexpected on December 28th. My family has obviously been in shock, anger, sadness, etc. I’ve never been through pain such as this and have really been struggling with how to manage the grief and mourning. I can’t tell you how much the first day has helped me already. I’m so thankful I know my Daddy is in Heaven with Jesus where he lived his entire life to be, but I’m also so sad and sometimes bitter that he is gone.
My husband and I have lost 18 immediate family members in the past 2 years and the most recent was our son whom was due at any day. As I read threw each of your stories I am incredibly sorry for all the loss, pain, and hurt threw each circumstance I have read. However, I know that each situation wether we can see it or not Gods hand is all over it! The week we lost our son , Dec. 1st 2016, that Monday I had my weekly apt with the OBGYN and it was my last one before delivery. However, when I made it to my apt. I noticed electricity had gone out on that wing of the building. I went ahead and walked up thinking they could potentially still see me, but when I reached the door it had a note saying to call and reschedule. Well that night our little man had balled up on one side of my belly and I took a picture, if you have ever been pregnant this sometimes happens and it looks weird because one side of your belly goes flat, so you are amazed when you see it. Anyways, we had just lost my 15 year old cousin that Saturday before and just had got the keys to our new house so my mind was all over the place as well as my emotions. So, I rescheduled my apt and made it for Thursday because I had family coming to help the next 2 days unpacking. Thursday I woke up like any other day and went to my final apt,and for the first time I went without my daughter. I took one last belly picture since he could come at any moment. Then I sat down, alone and I just got a feeling something was different. Doc comes in and listens for a heart beat and says, “he sounds good! How you feeling?” And I immediately asked are you sure that was his heart beat you heard it sounded kind of like mine ( ours is slower than a baby’s). He said well humm…when did you feel him move last and I told him Monday was the last time I could recall due to life circumstances. He said, “ok for peace of mind let’s do an ultrasound.” So he walks out to schedule it and I just knew he had gone to be with the Lord. It wasn’t until that moment that I realized. As I walked back to the room I felt like I was walking the line, all eyes on me, but they weren’t it just felt like everyone knew something was wrong. As I walk in I see the fear on the ultrasonographers face, then as I lay back she is disorderly and then of course as we go into the ultrasound there is no movement, she listens for a heart beat that isn’t there, then frantically tries to find lung movement. That Is when I looked over at her, grabbed her hand and said, “it’s ok! You and I both know he is gone to be with the Lord and it’s ok!” As I tear up I ask to see the doctor so we can make arrangements. When he and I spoke I said,” I believe in Miracles because I am one, and God is still in the miracle business so I can’t write off the fact that he can breathe breath back into His lungs, but I won’t be foolish to believe that God hasn’t already worked out His greater plan for my son in his death.” Well after my c-section delivery we were told he didn’t make it and the ambilical cord was the most probable cause. It was wrapped twice. So once cleaned up a little they brought him to us and we were taken by surprise because his sweet face was purple, not what we expected. His skin was coming off in chunks due to the length of his time passed in amniotic fluid, and he looked like he had burns and it was so incredibly sad to see, but as I sit here even now I feel a blanket of peace. The same peace that God laid over me on Dec.1st. Yes, I have felt sadness and pain, but God blessed me with a peace that surpasses my human understanding that day and it hasn’t left me. That peace has allowed me to be calm threw the entire process and I pray that for each of you! So, as I mentioned before I see Gods mighty hands at work and they were all over my situation because I later found out the electricity in the doctors building came back on as soon as I had left that day. I left at 1:50 p.m. And the lights came back on at 2 pm. See God didn’t want me to find out that the cord was wrapped around his neck. Had I known I would have done all I could to save my son, and God knew that so he made it where it went according to His plan. The picture I took on that Monday little did I know was of his actual death. He was tangled and there was nothing I could do nor could I have known. I found out in autopsy he had passed that Monday night. See the lights not working, rescheduling apt for later date than normal, my daughter not being with me that day. These were all Gods specific plan and His fingerprints on my situation. Then I had 3 different nurses ask at different times if they could pray for me, one at each different stop we took that night. From our room, to prep, and then recovery. I kept singing in my head the songs, ” I will praise you in this storm….every tear I cry you hold in your hand you never left my side and though my heart is torn I will praise you in this storm!” (Casting Crowns) , and “it’s your breath in our lungs so we poor out our praise to you Lord! Great are you Lord!” It blew my mind the peace I felt and the dancing I was doing threw my mourning and there is only one way–> our Lord and Savior! I hope my story has touched atleast one person and that God can use it to regain any of you who have lost hope, or anyone who needs peace! I promise He will give it to you! And if you have ever lost a child of any age and you are in a bad place. Let me say no one can better understand or relate to you than our Lord. Not only did He make up every molecule of your being so He knows you better than anyone, but He too suffered a great loss of a child and He watched His sinless, blameless, perfect son take on all the guilt and shame of this world for us. He died on that cross and took beatings and lashes not for anything He had ever done but for each and everyone of us! He paid the price we could never pay for ourselves. And, if you are feeling like God doesn’t care or that he has lost you. Please know that is the furthest from truth. He will never lose you or forsake you! I can’t think of anyone that would willingly let their child go threw what he did, He didn’t have to but He loved you/us enough to sacrifice His life! I hope someone hears me out there and can be blessed by His word and this study, possibly even what God has just poured threw me. Blessings and love to you all!
Thank you for sharing. Your words show so much love even in this time of mourning. Prayers and love to you and your family!
Thank you so much for this ❤
I lie awake in bed at 4am for no known reason – again. And because life is heavy right now, I decided to revisit this study. Now I am certain that God placed that thought in my head so I would see these new comments and be blessed by you, Amelia.
I have not lost a child but I’ve received devastating news from an ultrasound, and now our every day life looks more different than I ever imagined. I’ve seen God’s hand in this whole experience, but lately, with more trials on the horizon for my sweet baby, I’ve been struggling to dance while I mourn.
Thank you for sharing your story.
Thanks for sharing your story! I will be lifting you up as you travel down the road of the unknown
Thank you so so so much for sharing. You are so inspiring and give me so much hope.
I found this study after finding out this past week that I was miscarrying with our first baby. It’s so hard because we finally felt it was the time for us to start a family after being married for 3 years. I’m fearful of what lies ahead and trusting God that I don’t have to go through it again. I feel like that newness and excitement of a baby has been robbed from me and I am trusting to have it back for future pregnancies and that I won’t live in fear. :(
Praying for you, that every emotion that you feel, that you can immediately give it straight to God and lay them at His feet
I am currently sitting in the NICU with my twins who were born 9 days ago at 34 weeks. They are doing well, just growing and learning to eat and breath on their own- but I’m mourning for them, for their early arrival and that they have to suffer learning these things in this environment and not inside me. But I’m also dancing because they are precious gifts and they are mine. And I get to see how amazing my husband is at this. It’s hard, and the days spent here waiting are endless. I spend most days holding my breath waiting for something bad to happen, but then I read this and a weight was lifted. God is here, in this room, at every moment and he’s got this, I only have to trust his perfect judgment.
I had twins 6 months ago. Please reach out if there is anything I can do for you. Happy to pass along any pointers since we are only 6 months ahead of you. It’s been so sweet and fun but also shows me daily my need for God! I hope you get to take the littles home soon!
I had twins 6 years ago. They are amazing gifts but it is a whirlwind of emotions and responsibilities. Praying for you. Praying for you in the mourning and dancing. If you need anything, let me know.
My older Brother walked out of my life and my Grandmother, my best friend, died within weeks of each other. A huge chunk of my heart left and died too. 27 years later and I am still searching for the life that was stolen from my heart. I know Christ but I’ve struggled to come out of mourning from these 2 loses that have so greatly impacted my present and future.
Loss is a funny thing. It forever changes you, and feels like a piece of you has died…..never to be alive again. My losses are very recent, but I’m not sure I will ever be able to recover what was lost. I lost my daughter at 13 weeks gestation because she couldn’t live due to a chromosomal abnormality. 6 days ago, I gave birth to her stillborn sibling, whose heart just stopped for unknown reasons at 16 weeks gestation. While our losses are very different, I think our pain bears similarity to each other. I keep searching for meaning in their lives/deaths, and for life that will replace the empty feeling of loss. Im very sorry for your losses. Hold tight to who you know Christ to be……a good friend told me the day after my baby was “born” that sometimes when you cannot see the hand of God, you must rely on the heart of God. I know God has some great plan….I just can’t make sense of it, so I have to just learn to trust Him more deeply, and know that somehow life and good fruit will come from this dark time! I’ll pray for you.
Praying for you, sweet friend. I can’t imagine how much your heart aches. ❤
I chose to go back and redo this study because of my Mom. She had a stroke on August 7, 2014. In a few brief moments she went from being a strong, vibrant 80 year old to being paralyzed on her left side, partially blind, on a feeding tube (which has since been removed), and confined to a wheelchair. After stroke dementia and sundowners now affect her greatly. While in a nursing home, she has suffered several falls which have left her with a broken femur and a broken hip. She has suffered so much physical pain, that she rarely even wants to leave the bed. While I am thankful for the time I have with her, I also mourn for the woman she used to be. It is as though I live in a constant state of mourning, and I find myself questioning God. Why is he leaving her here just to suffer. Being in this condition was her greatest fear. I pray for God to give me peace and comfort during this time of trial. I pray that he would help me to trust him rather than question him. I pray for patience and strength in taking care of my mom.
My dad has suffered with dementia for ten long years. He has spent the last four and half years in a VA nursing home memory unit. It is so hard to see him deteriorate. I find myself struggling with the unfairness of this illness. I have watched so many family and friends who leave this earth for their reward and see my dad still lingering. I have prayed daily for us comfort and for peace for my mom and all my family. My niece suggested we do this study. Although I am a strong believer in Christ I am not usually one who will participate in these sort of studies. I am hoping that all of us will benefit not only from the study but the words shared by people like you who struggle with the same issues.
We lost my grandfather a little over a month ago and the concept of death really took a toll on me. I understood death in a whole new meaning. During my grieving I caught myself smiling and laughing throughout the day and I immediately felt guilty that I was living a life during all of this heartbreak – but surely so, life does go on. My heart still mourns the loss of my grandfather every day but I know he is standing with the Son of God and for that I can dance.
Reading this study with the hope that it will prepare me for the future. I am 17 weeks pregnant with my first baby and have been told that due to hydrops, she will die in utero in the coming weeks. I’m proclaiming life on her and praying hard, but I know that I need to be prepared to mourn and still be faithful. There is a time for everything-just hoping I don’t forget that dancing will come after the mourning.
I lost my third child, a girl, on May 9th. She had triploidy and had no chance of life. 6 days ago, her sibling was stillborn. This baby’s heart just stopped for reasons unknown. This is a wretched and unbearable life experience and I am truly sorry for your loss. I wrote this once before, but a good friend told me the other day that when we cannot see Gods hand, we have to rely on Gods heart. This phrase has brought me some comfort during this dark time, and I hope it helps you too!
I’ve just lost my 23 year old daughter four weeks ago. It was sudden and the cause is unknown. I’m having trouble facing god and asking for strength because as he took her for his reasons why will he give me strength. Grieving and losing faith at the same time is painful. I need to feel the lord in me
Terry, I cannot imagine the pain and struggle you are going through. I am praying and standing in the gap for you as you wrestle with your faith and grieving. ❤
Three years ago my youngest daughter had twins, my father died, my husband filed for divorce and my youngest daughter and I became estranged all within six months. I had to leave my home, deal with severe depression and fear that I would never recover. I still am estranged from my daughter and grandchildren, I am divorced, I haven’t seen my daughter and grandchildren in over two years and although my depression has subsided and my life has improved, my heart aches daily regarding the loss of my loved ones. I am afraid my daughter is lost and that she will never be made whole, she has lost custody of her children and continues this path of sin, misery and shame. I want to do something, anything… I pray, I envision her made whole again, I see the perfection of Gods creation and His grace. Please pray for me, my daughter and my grandchildren.
Praying
“A Time to Mourn and a Time to Dance”
That could not be more true for my year. The night after Valentine’s Day, my fiancé was in a terrible car accident. He spent 23 days in Trauma ICU where both of his legs became amputated (one was on scene to release him from the vehicle) and he fought for his life each day. He wasn’t expected to make it out of the vehicle, much less 23 days. But after 23 days his body failed him. He died in my arms bleeding out in the bed.
Three months later, I gave birth to our son. He was excited to be a dad. There were a lot of nerves too but that was because he wanted to be the best dad he could imagine.
So I mourned; I mourned for a long time; I still mourn. But I also literally dance with our son. I thank God everyday for what he has given me in this life- from my beautiful son to the short time I had with his father. So I am sad for what I lost, what could have been, but I am so happy for all I have.
“So I am sad for what I lost, what could have been, but I am so happy for all I have.” Thank you so much for this beautiful perspective. Thank you for dancing with your son. I pray that you will always dance with him and that he grows to know how truly loved and precious he is ❤
“You will weep and mourn while the world rejoiced”
As we were walking out of the ER last night I noticed the tv in the waiting room. We had just watched our baby being loaded into an emergency helicopter. I was an emotional wreck and I said to Leo, “And the rest of the world watches Wheel of Fortune.” The rest of the nation is celebrating with family and mountains of pies and turkey and we are following our four month old in a helicopter. It’s good to be reminded that this is a season and that it will reveal the strength of our faith at the end of the day.
I really needed this today. My husband and I have been trying to conceive for over a year and with every month that passed and every negative test, you start to feel a little defeated. One miscarriage and this time I was a week late before starting-it’s just hard, especially when this is something you want so badly. Just have to remember “not my will, but yours be done!” Thank you for this uplifting message today.
Katie I remember those feelings all too well. My husband and I have been married 17 years and we have never been able to have a baby naturally. We tried for many years going through fertility treatments with no success. We finally gave it to God with the true release to say that no matter what we’d trust Him. To trust Him means to be ok with whatever the result may be even if that means we never had a baby.
One thing I regret is not taking those years to just enjoy our marriage. We spent so much time focusing on having a baby that we failed to just enjoy being together. After 9 years of marriage we finally did welcome a baby girl into our homes through adoption. She is love of our lives and we can’t imagine our lives without her. Trust God no matter what happens, trust that He has a plan bigger then you can imagine. Give it over to Him and just focus on living. It will happen the way it’s supposed to and in the time He has.
I lost my older sister to Anencephaly in 1993. I never met her but I wish I had. There are so many times in my life where I needed an older sibling. Someone to turn to other than my family. So I turned to God. I started going to church every Sunday. And my faith has healed me.
After about five months of severe depression, I was writing a get well card for a friend who was having open heart surgery and the verse Mark 5:34 popped out to me. “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” It was then that I knew my depression over my sister’s loss was over. I do weep from time to time but when I weep I dance. Dance heals me as much as my faith in God does.
I lost my father about 2 months ago. My heart is heavy and my sorrow is great. I really at this point can’t explain the feeling I have. I do know that God is with me every step of the way.
I lost my Dad in June…suddenly. He was in a car accident and died at the scene. I can’t help but wonder when I will dance again…many prayers to you.
I lost my dad two weeks ago – right before Christmas. I’m still trying to figure out how to grieve and move through this loss. These verses are very comforting that I will rejoice again.
My father passed a year ago this past November six days after my birthday and nine months later my mother passed. It’s been a year and eight months of my father being gone and six months for my mother . It’s a roller coaster of emotions. Grief is different for everyone and I am comforted in knowing I will see them again. I like you are trying to find that time of dancing again. Blessings to you
Sharon, praying for you in this time. I know how difficult it is to lose those you love. Asking that God would grant you peace and comfort. Grateful for you.
I read this grieving the loss of my relationship one week before we were due to get married. For reasons I might never understand, my fiancé called off the wedding and that was it. I turn to the Lord to seek refuge and help and strength. I feel broken and more alone than I have ever felt- people say that there is a time for dancing, but for now I am mourning the loss of my best friend and trying to make sense of Gods will.
Hello Marisa. So I happened to look at the comments and yours was the first one I saw. My fiancé also recently called off our wedding just a few short weeks before, and left without giving much of a reason. I have felt very similarly to how you are feeling. Some days I feel lost and feel so many emotions I can hardly separate them all. I am also still in the midst of feeling the raw hurt, but I want you to know that you’re not alone.
Marissa & Lou, I too am with you ladies. My fiancé recently called off our wedding 2 weeks before we were to be married. To this date, I am still left confused and lost as to what had happened and why it happened. It’s been a constant struggle to get up everyday feeling alone but what keeps me going is knowing that the God we serve is a good God and that He has something better planned out for us. Everyday I mourn the loss of my best friend, the memories we shared and the future we could have had.
“We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed— always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.”
II Corinthians 4:8-10 NKJV
Ladies, I am in the beginning of a painful divorce. I know with certainty God has a beautiful plan for you all.. it is much better to wait for the right person than to have move forward with a marriage that could have ended divorce.
I stumbled across this series after a night a weeping and worry. A few months back I had a freckle removed on my forehead; I was under the impression that it will be removed and nothing to follow. They decided to do a biopsy and the results came back great. No cancer, no precancer! However, due to certain cells, I’m at risk for melanoma in the future. I now have to have routine skin checks for the rest of my life every six months. However, Satan has been attacking me. I live in worry. I’ll examine my body and dwell on other freckles. Convince myself they are just as bad as the one removed and schedule countless skin checks. I need prayer for peace and comfort. I found myself not feeling Christ love for me; although in my heart I know he loves me deep. I’m asking for prayer that I will know that not a hair on my head will be touched apart from God’s will, that I am loved by him, worry will subside, and clear skin checks for the rest of my life! Lord willing. Praying for all of you!
I have never really like the “community” part of a devotional, but I think this is what I need. I have a 18 month old son and we have been trying for a year to have another. And in that year, we have buried two miscarried babies in our back yard. It’s devastating. It’s been a few months since my last miscarriage and I feel like I have gone off the deep end. Being numb really makes you look to feel something but leaves you feeling shame later. I know it’s not right but I have been drinking too much. This week I decided to get my life back together–I used to do full time missions! I feel like Satan is really trying to attack me and keep me down. I really need to process all of this that has happened to my little family. My husband and son don’t deserve this weird version of me. I miss how things used to be but the miscarriages have changed everything now and it’s hard to keep moving forward when it’s always on my mind.
I cannot imagine the pain you are going through. Raising a toddler and experiencing these devastating losses simultaneously feels like the epitome of the mourning and dancing this study is talking about. While I am assured that God’s plan includes an eventual end to all of the darkness, it sounds like there might be an overwhelming cloud in your life. I encourage you to talk to your husband about how your feeling and the drinking you’ve mentioned, including him in the process of seeking counseling. Sometimessage our mourning is so great we forget how to dance. Even when there are beautiful baby boys and good husbands. So, I encourage you to seek help. Remembering all the while that whether we are in a season of mourning or dancing, God’s “good promises have not failed.” Josh 21:45. May His love and peace be a salve to your broken heart in this season.
I needed this segment of devotions. On April 28, 2016 my husband suffered a fall from our garage attic. Due to pre-existing heart condition he was on plavix and developed a Subdural Hematoma. He was flown to a local trauma center and the later taken to UVA Medical Center where he spent 3 months. Together 4 months in the hospital and now 2 in a skilled nursing facility. We have 2 small boys and my heart and theirs is is broken. My husband is in a vegetative state and has been antibiotics so long that he has little Norma Flora left in his body. I admit I have not began to grieve this as life keeps coming. Daily tasks bust be done. I stay angry hurt and resentful. I pray this will help me to place things into perspective. I have been in church my whole life and my husband was a Christian as well. somehow we do think we are exempt from these traumatic incidents.
Praying for you and your family, Emily. You are never alone ❤️
Oh Emily, what a tragedy. My heart breaks for you and your family. Praying that you feel god holding you through this time ❤️
Praying for you, Emily. God is constant. God is here. God still has a beautiful story awaiting your family.
I am mourning the loss of my 4th miscarriage this year. I have three precious daughters that I am so very grateful. God has been so good to me. After 6 years my husband and I started trying for another baby. I never realized it would bring about such uneasiness and heartbreak. I am learning to live in the moment, rejoicing when it is time to rejoice, and mourning when it is time to mourn. Those that have had miscarriages, we tend to keep silent, keeping a pregnancy to ourselves for as long as possible. I understand there is wisdom in that.. but it can be very lonely. On our fourth pregnancy we decide to share with our family and friends our wonderful news. There were tears, excitement, cheering. Everyone was so happy sharing in that moment. A week later I miscarried. This time, instead of feeling shame I wrote or called those we had shared and told them our news. They mourned with us. This was priceless!!! I cannot say enough how much this meant to me. We received flowers, meals, letters, prayers of encouragement, call after call. Just imagine how we would have missed such an excellent opportunity to receive God’s love in such a tangible way!! God poured his love out on us through those who were mourning right along with us. We only like to share the good times.. oh, but what a joy it was to have those mourning by our side, too.
God is faithful. He is good. I am learning to trust in his perfect will in all areas of my life.
I’m praying for you Ashley. And I am mourning for you as well.
I’m mourning the loss of someone I thought was the one. I’m only 21–and I know that in some ways I have nothing but time, but in other ways I feel not only the loss of two precious years, but of the immeasurable future I thought belonged to us. I have such a hard time letting God take the reigns in my life, and I often take the mentality that I have complete control rather than God. Now that I’ve relinquished that control, I’m terrified of trusting God’s plan for taking my person away. But these verses were perfect. There’s a time for everything, and I guess this is my time to mourn.
I am going through a similar situation. I just broke off my engagement of one year, after dating for 3 years, and I myself am grieving and broken. I am 22, and though we are both young, that doesn’t make the hurt and the shattered dreams go away. I like to be in control as well, and am such a planner of my own life. I had everything planned out and just when I did, everything was taken away from me. I grieve the loss of him, but also the many dreams I had. Trusting God is so hard in times like this, but I pray you will find peace and hope as I am searching for that same thing. Many blessings! <3
Sometimes, because of extreme tiredness, my melancholic disposition, hormones, or just an especially trying day of regular crap, I don’t trust my own intuition about what’s really going on with me. John 15 reminds me to ABIDE in Christ, allowing Him to be the ointment on my otherwise open emotional wound. In His presence, it really doesn’t matter if I’m diagnosing my issues correctly. He knows full well. I come to Him, cry and yell and beat the ground. I whisper and sing and write and praise. I apologize, I ask questions. I wait. Doing whatever pours out is therapeutic (!) and it also gets to be worship, gets to be obedience. We were made like this – to feel blessed and cursed simultaneously, to feel bittersweet. To just BE that way before God…more often is my goal. So that, maybe one day, those intimate moments in my prayer closet amount instead to the balance of every day. Amen. Thanks, ladies!
I needed this. Every person has trials, I am in the midst of one too. It is so encouraging to me to know that the Lord gives us these in seasons and not as permanent lifestyles. Though they may leave scares and change our lives forever, the brunt of the trial is only for a season. Then, joy comes in the morning! Thank you for sharing your heart. It has helped mine immensely!
A year ago I ended a five year relationship with my ex. At the time I thought it was right. I know now there was a reason but it’s so hard to see sometimes. It has been a season of mourning for me for a very long time. A season of mourning, regret, self blame, and so many other things. Despite the good and how I’ve changed, I can’t shake the past. I tried to undo what I did and tried everything in my power to get him back but the extent of the hurt I imposed on him was too great. Sometimes I think to myself, selfishly, that maybe in its own way losing someone in such a way is worse than a permanent loss. It’s so hard to see someone you love consciously choose every day to not be with you. To know that they have all the power to come back but don’t. He’s moved on and has now been in a new relationship for a year. Every day is still extremely tough. I’ve prayed, I’ve cried, I’ve tried everything to move past this but for some reason I haven’t been able to. I can’t shake the regret and guilt. Hopefully things will begin to change through this devotional.
I am going through something very similar. 3 years of dating and 3 years of deep friendship before that. It’s so hard when there’s so much love still there. When you’ve been so blessed together, but it had to come to an end. When everything adds up and it’s almost too much to recover from. I know “love never fails”, but it’s so hard to believe in love the same way after all of that. And to consciously see them choose to not be with you, that is the worst part. I miss him, but more so I miss God. I lost track of His will throughout it all and am seeking that now. I have so much hope for your happiness and I will pray for you!
My father was killed last year and I have had the hardest time coming to terms with his death. I’ve held closer to God than ever before and I also pushed God away in anger and resentment. Grief does all sorts of things to people but I’ve come to realize that God uses our time of mourning to reach out to us and show us He is always there to comfort and love us. He also uses that time of mourning to change our hearts and see the beauty in life, but more importantly to see the beauty in Eternal Life as believers.
A month ago my mother passed away. Even before that, through her sickness, my faith went from its highest point of believing in God and His abilities to radio silence. Silence on my end of speaking faithful things and silence on not hearing Him (or at least being numb to His voice). I honestly don’t know how to deal at this point. My mother was my best friend, the last of my immediate family, my confidant, my buddy, my queen. I was believing God to heal her here and He didn’t. But what I know is His way is better, and she loved Him for a reason. So I’m turning back to the Word. Because hopefully here I will hear His voice again and learn how to deal His way.
There is a time for everything. It does not mean that God will reveal every puzzle piece at once. Or even that every puzzle piece will look nice. Some are ugly and jagged and sharp and painful. But in time they will be added to the rest and make a beautiful picture. A masterpiece gifted to a child from the Master Himself.
Angel, my mother also passed away a month ago. I’m a young teenager and losing her shook my entire world. Everyone is different but in a way, I feel the pain that you feel. Being left behind when someone you loves passes is one of the worst tortures this world has for us. Something that has encouraged me recently has been knowing that through this all God has a plan and it is sovereign. I pray that God speaks to you in great and loud ways. Hugs.
I lost my mother 10 years ago this month. It, needless to say, shook my world. I didn’t know how to deal. The beginning years were full of tears. Slowly the tears were few and remembering her wasn’t so painful. Eventually I was even able to talk abut her without crying like a baby. Initially my prayers were asking God to take care of me. Then it turned into asking God to take care of her. Now… I know ma is taken care of by The Most High. Like totally jealous and till we meet, till it is my time to go banging on Heavens door and Papa God and my ma come running to welcome me, I will be happy, live a wonderful life full of His Glory.
Of course once in a while the darkness of ‘earthly reality’ rears it’s ugly head but I’ve noticed this happens when I get busy and stop reading my Bible and spending time with God. Once in a while I’ll lay my head on Gods lap and have a good cry. Then we talk and I am able to face life again. But I know it can be done. As long as God is with me..who can be against me? =) *hugs* to everyone who has lost a loved one. We have The BEST lookin’ out for us.
Angel, I can relate. My dad passed away in march and it has been the most painful season of my life. He also was sick and I believed with my whole heart he would be healed. He was my roots to my childhood and I counted on him with more then I realized. It has been a challenge to navigate all the emotions I feel and hearing Gods voice through the depths of my pain. In my head and heart I know the Lord is here but there are times when it feels like he is so far away.
I lost my dad last month too. He had battled various illnesses for a few years. It was sudden and a total shock when he died. He was in a lot of physical pain for the last year and I had been praying for healing for him.
I was blessed to spend the day before he died with him.
He was doing so much better and I had real hope that he was going to walk again and get back on track.
The next day at 1pm he choked and his fragile heart stopped beating.
The Lord had answered my prayer. He had healed my father and taken him home.
Sometimes God heals them here and sometimes He heals them on the other side.
This is your refining by fire. It’s painful. You will get through it. Let yourself mourn. Let yourself feel the pain of the loss of your mother here.
But do not get dragged into despair. Your mother is alive and well. Jesus made that possible.
My father has eternal life. Use this time to find out how much God truly loves you. He cries every tear with you.
Don’t turn away from Him. The enemy would love to rob you if eternity with your loved ones.
The Lord is your strength. You will be used mightily for God’s kingdom.
God bless you. Just let Him hold you. He’s holding your mom right now.
I am mourning my recent diagnosis, being chronically ill, right out of high school. I feel at times so scared of the life ahead of me, what will happen. I feel as though all of my dreams are crashing down. I see pregnant soon-to-be mothers, and wonder, “Will I ever be well enough to raise the family I’ve always dreamed of?” “Will I ever meet a man who can love me past my illness?”. Will I always feel a burden to even myself? But even though at times I can barely walk, I know the Lord is with me, providing me with his utmost strength. I know he has amazing plans for me on this Earth, plans that I can’t even imagine. Even though I didn’t know it was possible to have this much of a physical battle to make it through my days, I know that this experience is God’s way of providing me with so much knowledge on the world, an appreciation of the little things that I would’ve overlooked had I been healthy. I dance for the little things, that are actually the largest wonders of the world. I dance for the Lord, whatever this life may face me with.
I’m so sorry I can’t even imagine. I will be praying for you❤️
My 15 month old son just got diagnosed with an incurable Mitochrondrial disease. Your words were truly a blessing to me! God bless you on this journey.
Your story is one of beauty and courage, Audrey. Don’t lose faith and keep pursuing him, he is faithful to give all your hearts desires. Praying for your sweet heart ❤️
I try to live a joyful life but struggle with the fact that there are desires of my heart which have not yet been fulfilled. I appreciated this study because it says that mourning and dancing don’t always take turns. While I rejoice for others who are married and starting families, I also struggle with not being in that place yet. God is still good and I choose to trust in his good plans for me.
Dear Simone,
I too am trusting God with the desires of my heart in relation to marriage. I was beginning to feel as though time was running out for me, though I am only 25. I’m trying to remember that we serve the author of time and His plans for us are greater than anything we could dream up for ourselves. The best is absolutely yet to come. I pray God gives you peace of mind.
I am mourning the loss of a friendship. And wow I needed this. I think I often forget the deep complexities of His plan. I don’t know what this broken relationship will look like in the future but I am needing His strength to forgive and pray for her amidst my hurt. May I not be lost in the mourning , but lift my eyes to Him. He WILL make beauty from this. And He is still actively blessing me. May I rest in HIS timing. Trusting that it is OK to process and feel loss. I am thankful that our Lord knows our hearts and the seasons we weather.
I needed this. I am at a new university and I live three other Christian women and I am surrounded by brokenness and a lack of community that I so desperately need. Thank you for the reminder that it’s okay to mourn over brokenness and that death brings life because right now my heart feels straight dead! I would some prayers, sisters. For a community that pours into me and I into them and pushes me to Jesus. And to be joyful in mourning
Praying for you BryAnna. I’ve gone through seasons where I felt I didn’t really have community and I know they can be really tough. Praying that the Lord would place people in your life who you can be honest with and who support you (& vice versa).
God’s word is always exactly the comfort that keeps me going. My husband and I just lost our home after months of me fighting crippling depression and anxiety. Losing our home and all of our belongings has made my anxiety and depression ten times worse. We have now had to rely on family and friends for support. Praise God that we have a beautiful place to stay on the lake thanks to some wonderful family and we are able to relax a little bit and at least have beauty around us. It’s been so hard and continues to be hard, but I keep fighting. Reading this today has given me hope and keeps my eyes focused on God. He is my joy.
My boyfriend just ended an almost 3 year long relationship on the same premise that he ended it two years ago: he’s not ready to get married, even though we had talked about and had started planning the future.
It’s a shock and a struggle to deal with, although I know it’s not nearly as devastating as the death of a loved one.
I’m thankful I found this App and reading plan. I pray God gets us through these tough times and then we’ll be all the most grateful when it’s time to dance again.
Praying for you, even now
A death of a relationship is still a death and something to be mourned. That’s what I’m going through too
I am so excited to do this study with one of my closest friends. I’ve experienced much mourning and much dancing in my life. It makes my heart sing to know that it’s ok to mourn, cause joy comes in the morning.
I truly believe that in our mourning we learn to dance and often times because we are too afraid to dance we must mourn. Understanding the importance to worship God and give him praise despite the things I face keeps me dancing!
Has anyone lost someone to suicide?… I recently lost my best friend… It’s so hard, as a believer, to go through scripture knowing that he was not and that he had no hope, and that led to him ending his life. Even reading through this… Is very difficult because I can’t find peace or see the good when my friend took his own life. I feel that if it were an accident or a natural cause I could find peace and joy… But right now… It is very very hard when you know his soul did not know the Lord, and that he was in so much pain that he gave up.
dear friend,
sometimes we don’t understand why things happen… and we don’t know how to deal with it. i haven’t lost someone to suicide, but my mother died of cancer when i was seven years old. i know what it’s like to lose someone and to not understand why. but it’s like the devo said. there’s a time for mourning and a time for dancing. the sadness may seem overwhelming right now and you NEED to grieve. but there will be joy for you again.
i will be praying for both you and his family. so sorry for your loss.
Recently my sister committed suicide while also taking two of her children’s lives. The struggle of emotions is valid and a journey that we need to give ourselves grace to navigate.
Melodie, thank you for sharing… I’m sorry for your loss. Your words made me feel at peace for feeling the way I do. May I ask how you are doing? I prayed for you.
Thank you, Hannah. Your words made me see that it is okay to continue to grieve my friend. It feels like society forces you to rush the sadness away and be better. That hasn’t been the case for me… I appreciate you sharing your experience with loss. Please let me know how I can pray for you, sister.
I’m so sorry for your loss. It is a frustrating and confusing place to be as a believer when someone you love commits suicide. My dad committed suicide five years ago and I remember being so hurt because it would be easier to blame someone if it were an accident. I know that God is faithful and knows the heart of your friend. He understood the hurt that your friend was experiencing and weeps with you. I pray that you will find comfort in knowing that God’s heart is for his people and he is perfect in his justice and love.
Thank you so much, Lauren. Your words were very encouraging… You are right it can be easier to blame someone else for the pain. I am sorry for your father’s loss as well. Please let me know how I can pray for you, sister.
I have seen mourning and dancing all too real in my family. In October 2009 when my dad was killed in a car accident just 3 days before he and my mom were scheduled to fly to Taiwan to adopt my brother and sister, we never could have seen joy. All we saw was grief. But 2 months later on Christmas day when my mom brought them home and became a single mom of 5….we rejoiced. Because God was creating beauty from ashes. We mourned the loss of my dad but we DANCED because two children now had a forever home. We call this the intersection where joy and sorrow meet, and thank you God for meeting us in the midst of it.
This is a hopeful reminder that He assures us that our sorrow will turn into joy! He personally assures us! That’s beautiful and what I needed to hear for myself personally and my family! We continue to be struck over n over again with hard news n events close to us. Fours yrs of constant events. We are exhausted. Thanks for the assurance dear Lord!
I haven’t experienced much death in this season of my life, but I still found this post powerful. I am excited to work through this 2 weeks and discover what God is speaking to me through this. The world is so ugly sometimes. Watching the news is full of depressing things, full of death, crime, and sin. I know this is the world we live in and it has always been this way and will always be, but it affects me. I find myself mourning and feeling lost for the world. Not wanting to accept the things I am hearing. I never keep up with the news because of this. I am getting a hard heart for the brokenness of the world because it is easier to deal with it this way. But this is sin. This is the wrong idea to deal with pain. Today I realize that as a Christian women I should do both. Morn for the loss and brokenness, but also rejoice because I know that this is only for a season. We will not always be in this broken world and we will not always hear about this horrible depraviltiy. One day we will be rejoicing with our Holy God! In heaven dancing and always happy. I cannot wait for that day! But as of right now I will try to remember this and pray for the broken people and actively help them because it is all I can do at this time! Thank you for this study!
God Bless.
I haven’t done. SRT devotional in over a year, but a set of circumstances (aka the Lord) led me here tonight. I saw this plan and bought it right away. I have experienced 3 deaths this year, two of whom were family members, one of whom was my father figure. It’s been a season of mourning for sure. I am looking forward to hopefully gleaning some hope from this plan.
This study came at a much needed time. I have been having breakdowns at night and not sure why. I can’t seem to find the joy in the moment but God has seemed to show me joy in what I am learning in my studies. I am a senior graduation in December from college with a fiancé who loves the lord and lives me dearly. He was here at college with me for the past three years and then he graduated and is now six hours away for Mrs school . It’s very tough for me being this far away from him for a year as I graduate college and go home to be with my family till our wedding day, it’s very hard not having him
Here and then my best friend who is roommate and like a sister lost her biological sister as the semester of school started. I haven’t had time to process it all because I am taking 17 hours so I can graduate and one of those credits is for my internship and 25 page research paper , it’s been like pulling teeth getting myself to even do school work let alone having the motivation to even do it. This study I think will be good for in seeing the joy and dancing in the midst of all this chaos in life!
This pains me so much to read and hear this in my mind. The death of my daughter before she was born and the recent death of my brother have left me shaken and wondering over and over what God means for me to see through this grief. What is he showing me? Where can I find the path forward? How do I see light through the loss that feels so dark? I come to these passages for the light, I know it’s there and I pray that seeking it, even if not feeling the warmth yet, will bring peace to my mind and soul, I know I will feel the warmth of God around me but I don’t feel it yet.
This hits me so hard. This summer I lost my grandma who took care of me for 18 years. It was so painful to go through that funeral but during that time, we listened to never before told stories of the life she lived and of the lives that God has touched through that trip. We even got to meet sides of the family that we never had a chance to before. I admit it was a weird feelings at first but you know that the peace and joy of God was in that very room even if we were crying.
Definitely hits a soft spot for me. My mother recently had a severe Traumatic Brain Injury, while I praise God the recovery is not over and it has been very very difficult. There have also been many other challenges in my family and my personal life. Currently going through the hardest time in my life. But also, my sister just got married amidst it all and I have found it so difficult to balance both sorrow and joy, especially since the two can overlap.
I learned that you cannot run and cry. The grief hits me out of nowhere , and that day while I ran, it collided with me and won.
I lost my little sister in December. It’s still hard to think she can never get married or have children, but I have to believe that she is with Jesus. She was not a believer but when she wasent really responsive in the hospital I prayed the sinners prayer for her and she raised her hand. The doctors said it was a reflex but I have to believe she was saying yes to our savior.
I lost my dad about 2 months ago and have been in a difficult place ever since, right now it looks like my whole life is in the balance, he was my only source of financial support and the one person i felt would always love me regardless, but i’m learning that God is the only one i should look up to. please pray for me that I find peace and learnt to trust God fully and that the fear of the future would pass.
Hi Maryam, five months ago, I too lost my dad. He died from cancer and a deep blow it was. You are not alone, and God takes the name as Father for a reason. I pray this prayer for myself. I will pray this for you as well: that God comforts us, that we feel him as our true Father and sole provider. I am praying big for you, my friend.
One of my good friends passed away just last Friday. He was only 22 and had so much life left to live, but the Jesus he loves so much called him home. One day we will be reunited with The Lord, but for today this has been so comforting. He is rejoicing and worshipping Jesus right now and I can’t imagine a better place for him to be. Thank you for the encouragement in this study. It feels like I should be celebrating his life and not mourning, but reading that it is right to mourn is the most comforting thing right now.
I lost a loved one recently as well. I mourned the loss of such a wonderful person. I’m now in a place where I have joy over his life that was here on earth and now he’s at the feet of God. Amen!
People who read this…..If you could pray for me, I’m going through deep trenches in life right now. Knowing that the testing of your faith works patience. I know that this passage was placed right in front of me for a reason! I needed to be reminded that God takes us through varies trials to only make us stronger.
The Lord sees your trials. He’s there to comfort you. I’m praying for you!
My boyfriend and I broke up tonight. I opened this app to find solace in His word and found this study called “mourning and dancing,” seems like it was placed here for me. I know this season of my life with him is over and while the wound is still fresh, I know that God’s hand is on me during this new season and all seasons
My boyfriend just broke up with me as well and I stumbled upon this study. Praying you find peace and solace in this time.
Ladies… Same-ish boat over here. In the “grey area” with the boyfriend. He moved states away and our communication is very rare. Prayers for y’all throughout each day, and remember… Our situation WILL change.
My fiancé is having doubts about getting married. My heart aches and I don’t know what to do. If anyone that reads this would please pray over our situation I would appreciate it. I love him so much and I know he’s the person for me….I just want him to be sure and tell me everything will be okay.
My divorce brought feelings of great loss, I felt alone, in adequate , not smart are pretty enough. I felt scared I was afraid I would never find anyone Else To love me. When along I was loved and cherished by God. I’m learning that I’m more then capable through Christ. I’m learning to enjoy my time alone.
This was a study. I am currently faced with many trials. I’ve been sick with anorexia for over a year and along with that my husband filed for divorce. Although I am unsure of God’s plan for my life, it brings me peace knowing to everything there is a season. Through this season of sickness, it is okay to mourn my brokenness. This study was a great reminder to celebrate the beautiful life the Lord has given me.
Through this season in my life it has been hard to lean on the Lord. I have had to protect my heart from the ending of a relationship, grieve over the loss of my grandmother and one of my best friends sister. In the mist of all this turmoil in my life I have had friends to help me look to the Lord. We are told our hearts have a time for everything through Ecclesiastes 3. As it tells us to dance at life though sometimes I am selfish in my dancing. I want it to be about the highlights to always be in my life when sometimes its good to dance in the rejoicing in others.
This was just what I needed to read today. My mother was just recently diagnosed with cancer for the 3rd time. This time it’s in her brain with no cure. Although I don’t know what God is doing, I can rest assured that He knows what He’s doing. And I can cling to the hope and joy that death leads to life for all that believe.
My 5 month old son had a seizure out of no where this past weekend. He was lifeless and blue. This is honestly the hardest thing I have ever been through. He was admitted to the hospital and had another one while there. All of his tests came back normal. Praying these are done for good and that God can calm my heart and ease my mind for my precious baby boy!
Mrs. Blaize I was just about to write my thoughts about this amazing passage/scripture and saw your comment. My mom was you about seven years ago with me. I can say that the Lord protected me in ways I never saw possible and still has through my epilepsy. If I can give you one voice of advice from talking with my mom it would be to lean on the Lord because he is your comfort and surround yourself with community. I am praying for you!
I just had a miscarriage this morning and my husband and I lost our 12 week old baby boy. Clinging to God and trusting His plan.
My heart aches for you! I will pray that our Heavenly Father wraps you up tight in his arms, that He will ease your pain, and that He will allow healing. It’s so easy to be overcome with grief and feel completely alone or isolate yourself… Don’t forget your not alone! Praying for you!!
Thank you Mykayla!
My parents are both slipping away, one with dementia and the other with emphysema. They have been so much to me in this life and it is quite difficult. But I know my Lord has plans to comfort me with this study. Thank You God!
Joanie, your story relates to mine. My mom has dementia and my dad passed too. You’re right, it is quite difficult. I cling to my faith as I try to cherish the good times and remember Gods bigger plan.
A 2-year-old boy I know just passed away this morning. This study is really important to me right now.
I’ve been led to this study after the loss of a 2 yr long relationship (and the month before the sudden death of my grandmother, and 7 months before the loss of a life I built up for myself in a different city that I left in order to move toward life in the same city with the aforementioned now ex-boyfriend)…It’s such a relief to finally find comfort in God’s words and presence after avoiding it and trying to rely on my own strength. So grateful that I can learn to trust in the truth that this grief has purpose, that His favor lasts a lifetime. I may not feel it yet, but I know there’s a light at the end of this tunnel.
I’m so thankful for God giving us his words. The mourning and dancing and how this still applies to his children and always will is a sign that his Word is living. Just so blessed for his word.
Death and life. How they seem so opposite but they are both cycles of the same thing. Death where is your sting? Because in Christ we have new life!
Very encouraging words from this study plan and from you guys. We all experienced death so close to us and thank god this is the place we turn to mourn and to rejoice. I lost my grandfather last week. The funeral is tomorrow. As I’m laying in bed I turned to the app for a peace of mind and assurance that God is still good even through the pain.
Last year, I gave birth to miracle twin boys. This year, my dad died of lung cancer. I am in a constant pull between grief and celebration. Daily reminders of life and death. Thankful for a God who allows me to grieve and celebrate while holding my heart in His hands.
I am so glad I found this study plan. I have been at a standstill with my grief for years now and I can only hope these beautiful words will prove helpful.
How fit that I’ve spent most of today, as I seem to do a lot lately, with a heavy mind about my little sister’s death this past October when I decided to download this app and find a daily devotional. I’m also a nurse on a cancer ward and spend a lot of time with people growing near to their time to die and I learn a lot by seeing the peace many of them have. I also have had several this week invite me to their churches once they learn that I’m new to the area. Thank you, God, for stirring in me the motivation to re-invest my time in you.
Having a mother that just recently passed from cancer I have to say how thankful I am for caregivers like yourself. These people who have patience and a caring heart in such a difficult time are definitely God sent.
Wow, I am so pumped to read this series. It fits my life so perfectly right now. I am about to begin my senior year of college, and my dad just passed away suddenly from a heart attack. A time in my life that was filled with so much hope and joy, is now just filled with mourning. But I know God is faithful, and He provides for my every need!
What perfect timing. In this past month, I lost 3 dear friends to cancer, plus my Dad died on the 4th of July. It seems a bit overwhelming at times, but I know God is right there. I have a friend who is in the last stages of cancer and another friend who’s young daughter is going through Chemo right now. At this point, I’m not sure what to say anymore, so when I read the verse about a time to talk and a time to listen, it made me realize I don’t always have to say anything. Maybe just be still and let HIS love wash over me. I’m looking forward to this series, knowing through His Word, I’ll find my peace.
This study is so perfect for where I am at. That tension is so alive in me right now. My father has been on hospice with terminal brain cancer since June. Hey said he had probably 3-4 months but we all know how often those estimates are wrong. I find myself feeling guilty or questioning myself when I have moments of joy. But I know that my father — both my dad and my Heavenly Father — do not want me to wallow! It’s okay for me to go back and forth through those emotions. They call it the stages of grief, but in my experience they rarely come in a nice, neat, linear package like that. Thank you for sharing these words, they really brought me comfort. I look forward to continuing this series!
Hey Teal. I’m right where you are. My MIL was given about three months too for her cancer. Her son and I just got married three months ago. I keep struggling with enjoying this season of newlyweds but also feeling a continuous heartbreak throughout our days and weeks because of his mom. It’s such a weird place to be in- to experience burst of joys in the midst of such sadness. I look forward to this series too.
This post resonates so deeply with me. In May, I found out I was pregnant. We were thrilled as the summer would bring my thirtieth birthday, the purchase of our first home, graduating with my Master’s, and the joy of new life growing inside of me. Unfortunately, I lost my baby a month ago unexpectedly and traumatically. As my heart mends, it sometimes can feel like a struggle to still be gracious for the accomplishments and blessings when I’m drowning in the pain of losing my first child. While I’m grateful my child never had to experience pain and suffering on Earth and I know I will see him one day in Heaven, the mourning still lingers. Thank you for this beautiful passage to help me to remember to dance.
Christie, your story really resonated (to use your word) with me. I am in an almost identical place in my life except we haven’t quite tried to be pregnant yet. I’m almost 30, graduating soon with my masters, we’re in the process of buying our first home… I’m thinking and praying for you! And I will be regularly! God has a plan greater than our own, even though I’m sure that may be of little comfort right now. I do admire your strength to find gratefulness!
I found out this morning that my sister is considering doing self harm. she is in high school and is still trying to find her identity. I got back from spending my 3rd summer in africa with my church and she compares herself to me and it breaks my heart. this study is perfect for me and has already helped me to pray for her in a different way!
Praying for you and your sister Shelby!
K
I am struggling with a friend who is battling cancer. She is 27. It is not fair. I often find myself angry at God because I know that he has the power to heal her. I feel helpless because I cannot take away her pain. I’m mourning.
I am also struggling with a relationship. Do you ever seek gods voice and feel like you hear nothing? That’s how. I feel in this relationship. I need gods direction and I’m having a hard time hearing where he wants me to go!
Morgan,
I can relate. On January 1, 2013, my baby sister, Maci, (10 years old) & my grandfather (by marriage) were killed by a drunk driver. I didn’t have time to struggle with the thought of losing her though or the chance…I just lost her. And God did have the power to keep my family alive, but that’s not what happened. Nothing about that accident was fair. The drunk driver lived and then my family had to go to court for an excruciating long time. What I know is that Satan is alive and at work, but I also know we serve a BIG God who is also very alive and at work. At first, it was tough to see that God was going to use that situation for something glorious, but I had faith. Many of Maci’s classmates were able to hear the Gospel because Maci was very open about her faith–even at such a young age. We weren’t aware of just how strong her impact was until she was gone. There have been countless people who have now heard The Gospel and many who continue to hear it–years later–because of this accident. I miss her every day, but I know she is rejoicing in Heaven.
I, too, am struggling with a relationship–that of my older sister. You see, when tragedy happens, families often get torn apart. Unfortunately, more than 3 years later, we are seeing that happen. My mother lost her marriage and my sister has chosen to “side” with my step-father. The brokenness is extremely deep. I truly feel like I’m mourning the death of another sister…except I don’t have closure. She has chosen to be separated from the rest of my family and my heart is completely broken. I miss her. I miss her a lot. I’ve been praying for God to call her back to us, but, she has yet to come back. It seems like I’m hearing nothing, but I am trusting that God’s plan is greater than my own. I will admit, it’s difficult to continue to pray the same prayers over and over again and not have them immediately answered, but I’m trying to trust His plan over my own.
I’m saying a prayer for you, your friend who is battling cancer, and your relationship that you’re struggling with this morning, Morgan. You are not alone. And you are so deeply loved. <3
I too lost two people very dear to me due to a drunk driver, my husband and son. Grief can be such an up hill battle. The way things turn out can be hard to understand but we must keep faith.
Mekenna, my heart went out to you as I read your comment. We will never understand everything that happens in this life, but I am reminded of Jeremy Camp’s song “There will be a day”, and truly we have so much to look forward to. I am praying for your family right now, and just know there are so many others experiencing what you are, who love you and stand with you in your struggle. Sometimes we don’t need to wait for our circumstances to change, but we just have to make a conscience decision to take OFF our mourning clothes, and to put on the JOY of the Lord…each and every day. ❤️
McKenna,
Thank you for this. It has moved me and given me more peace than you know. I am struggling in a relationship as well, and yes, it’s exhausting to say the same prayers over and over (two years now), and it’s hard when it seems like I am not hearing Him speak to me. But you’ve reminded me that Faith isn’t about hearing, it’s about trusting. He knows what is best for us, even when we think differently. I am several days behind starting this study, but I genuinely feel that it happened this way on purpose. The scripture that I will cling to this week is Ecclesiastes 3:15 – “Whatever is, has already been, and whatever will be, already is. God repeats what has passed.” God already knows how our stories will play out and how they will end, and as His children we must trust Him.
So many great stories of mourning and eventual joy. I’m grateful for finding this site. I asked God for other women to pray with earlier today and here you all are in less than 24 hours. I asked God for new friends who I could trust and say everything is not always ok. Prayers answered. I’m going through a very tough time with my husband. He decided to become a chaplain but didn’t pray over how his going back to school right now would upset our lives. Children and work schedules all needed to be altered and still I don’t have a full plan. He spends almost every hour studying. I know God has a plan and it must involve still being a good husband and father. I’m very frustrated and angry. Waiting to dance…
This week we celebrate a year of my fathers passing. It is gut wrenching to call it a “celebration” but because of the hope and promise of Christ, I can cry joyful tears.
This week I got the incredible opportunity of going to young life camp with fellow high schoolers, some strong in their faiths and some who had never heard the story of Jesus. I had the time of my life, I got to meet Tim Halperin and I got to learn more than I ever had before, and two nights ago I reaccepted Jesus’s hand and turned the pen over to him. I thought that coming home would be hard, but today was my first day and it has been harder than expected. I don’t know how I can feel so full of love and salvation from Christ and yet so empty being away from a place free from cell phones and social media. I have always struggled with serious anxiety, specifically after various bullying incidents, but after reading this section I feel like I can let go and stop feeling guilty for mourning, and learn that God loves me just as much and that there truly is a season for everything.
Praying for you, AnnaGrace! What a wonderful experience you’ve had. May you sense God’s closeness to you as you’re back home. Love to you.
I lost my sweet mom last week. So thankful for this study being posted. She was 45 with a brain tumor. She had surgery to remove the tumor, had a massive stroke, and passed a week later. Her death was very unexpected. I just had her first grandbaby 7 months ago whom she adored. I know God is ever-present in our deep, deep mourning and we will glorify him for the gift of “life from death.”
Allison, I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine the grief you’re feeling. I pray that in time your heart will be filled with peace. ❤️
Allison, my prayers are with you. I know all too well the pain and grief of losing a mother. I pray that your circle of friends and family supports and loves you. I pray that you feel an abundance of God’s love even while you grieve.
My heart breaks and bleeds for the sorrow you feel and my soul prays for you. I know it still hurts and you miss your mom. Love hugs and prayers. I just lost my older sister to cancer on Good Friday. She had stepped in and was mom to all her adult siblings since our mom had passed at 60 years of age very unexpectedly.
Praying for you.
Allison, you comment really struck a cord with me. I recently lost my mother, as well. Just a month ago, actually. She was 52 and had courageously battled cancer for 6 years. While she was quite sick with this last diagnosis, her death seemed to come out of nowhere. She has 5 grandchildren whom she adored. She had the strongest faith I have ever seen and we all have struggled with the fact that she wasn’t healed in a way that we would have liked to see. Still, through our struggle, we praise Jesus that she is no longer sick, no longer in pain, and no longer has to worry about cancer. Her passing is still fresh and new to me, as I am sure it is for you, as well. Every day seems to be a struggle, but I am pushing forward. Hugs to you. You are not alone.
Allison,
I am so sorry for your loss. When i read this, i just had to reach out. When my mom was 45 with a brain tumor, she died as well. Such grief and loss, my best friend. I wanted you to know, God is faithful to bring joy again, in time.
The past week my Grandaddy has been in the hospital in liver failure. He got worse and is now on life support. I prayed and mourned and cried. He woke up Sunday and got to talk to us and I don’t think I’ve ever been so happy in my life- I got to dance. He is now back on the ventilator but slowly improving. I feel that God is going to heal him, he’s shown so many miracles already. If anyone reads this, please pray for him as he is like a father to me and I have already lost my real mom. Me and my Nana would greatly appreciate the prayers and sure would love to dance again. God is good all the time and you better believe I have faith that I will dance again and my Grandaddy will be right beside me. ❤️
Alexis– my prayers are with you, your granddaddy and your nana. I also pray for God’s love and peace to keep you strong!
Depression, anxiety and an eating disorder have been my closest companions for going on 8 years. I feel like the only season I’ve ever known as a teenager or young adult has been sorrow and death of dreams and hope. The Lord is good and His lessons learnt through this time have been precious. I’ve mourned plenty, but always kept waiting to dance. This study has helped me to see that I cannot keep waiting. I can laugh even in my sorrow, I can dance even through the fight. THANK YOU ladies for sharing your hearts. we are all broken in some way. If we were only more open and vulnerable with out scars… there is so much healing experienced when we mourn together.
I’ve struggled with depression for years as well and can totally relate to waiting to dance. We’re called to mourn with those who mourn and rejoice with those who rejoice and this life gives us plenty of opportunities to do both. I would not have chosen this struggle but know that out of the comfort I have received from God, He allows me to comfort others. Thank you for the encouragement to dance amidst mourning.
The past few weeks have been really rough for me. But God has always been beside me. Comforting me. I had a huge fight with my then landlord, had to find a place to live in a split second. Got hijacked at gun point. Got asked to leave the job that I loved. Moved to a new city. Got scammed while looking for a new place. Had to live in hotels, I had no money to pay for or replace any of the things I lost. I cried, I mourned, I prayed. And God held my hand. Through it all God just held my hand and comforted me. And now things are coming together. And no matter what happens, I have found joy just knowing that my Father in heaven is here with me, holding my hand and walking with me.
Praying for you, I admire you for your strength and faith.
I never really thought that a person could mourn and Dance at the same time…. That I could be happy but also feel broken or empty. I am an army wife to an amazing man. We live across the country from both of our families and my husband has recently deployed, we have a 1 year old son and a baby girl on the way! It breaks my heart everyday that he isn’t here to see our child grow and I guess my belly too! But then I have also been so happy because I get to feel the kicks and rolls of this amazing gift from God and see my son learn new things everyday. It’s a crazy feeling that’s for sure.
It’s been over 2 years of trying to get pregnant and some days I feel as though God isn’t listening or watching. But I have to remember that these trials should show a genuine faith and not me thinking he’s not with me. Thank you for this study and reminder that there is a time for everything.
You will be in my prayers Kristin!
My husband and I call it our schizophrenic life. The pendulum swings between mourning a child with a heroin addiction who has repeatedly rejected help as well as the Savior and two children who are healthy in every way and walk with Christ. Despair and joy, mourning and dancing. So thankful we do not walk either path alone.
Thank you for sharing. My fiancé broke off our engagement, and I feel as though I have lost my best friend and spouse. I cry and cry and wonder if the pain will ever stop. I know God will hold my hand and in time I too will smile again.
God will see your tears and hear your cry for help. In the right time he will restore. And like Job, he will give back to you and multiply.
I am praying for you right this second! Choose joy sweet girl, and trust God! I’m currently going through a storm myself so I don’t say this in vain, but to say you are NOT alone. God will protect your and guard your heart! Xo keep your head up and looking to Him.
This study came at a perfect time for me. God knew I would need it. My husband and I have struggled with conceiving a child for a little over a year. I had a very early miscarriage 2 years ago, and haven’t been pregnant since. I know so many women have these struggles, and I pray for you. My heart aches for you. I know I’m in a season, and I truly believe God will give my husband and I a child in his timing. I have been told my body is healthy and I shouldn’t have any trouble, but it just hasn’t happened yet. I know I don’t know any of you but I would like to ask you all to pray for me, my heart, and my husband’s too. I feel so guilty when I see other’s getting pregnant without trying, and I get a jealousy built up in me, and I know that’s not from God. I will be be praying for all of you as well. God bless you ladies!
Abby thank you for sharing. It has been hard for me to share with others about our struggle with infertility. My husband and I have been trying for over a year and the doctors can find nothing wrong. As I wait for the Lord to respond, I watch my friends getting pregnant without even trying. Even though we are pursuing full time ministry, I struggle with loving others through this and understanding why this is happening to us. I will be praying for your heart and mind, that they would be shielded from the lies we put into our minds.
The last 9 months have been a rollercoaster of emotion; the epitome being a once-in-a-lifetime backpacking trip through Europe with my sister and a week after our return my Grandma, who had become one of my dearest friends, passing away. It’s been a weird season of mourning and dancing. My soul is in need for this study!
This helped me so much, ive been struggling with the loss of my dad to pancreatic cancer. I have been having trouble going back to normal life and being okay with being happy, yet still aching and mourning.
I recently lost my baby. This was my third miscarriage. We have three beautiful children; I never knew how much my heart longed for another baby until I became pregnant again. My heart and arms ache to hold that sweet baby. But I rejoice in the hope of knowing this death is not the end. I will see my sweet babies in heaven and oh what a day of rejoicing that will be.
Thank you for this.
These scriptures are comforting. I recently lost a friend of my less that a month ago in a terrible car accident. But I know it’s all part of our amazing God’s plan.
Thank you for sharing your story. Brave woman of God xo
Such an encouragement! 1Peter spoke straight to my soul and lifted me up! Thank you!
Amen. As I was reminded recently, just be still and pray.
needed to hear this. please pray for healing
Today is hard because I miss my brother more than ever. I’m learning that God is good in the hard times, especially because that’s when he comforts us and gives us the peace we need — in our mourning. I don’t like being sad but as Ecclesiastes says there is “a time for mourning and a time for dance”. Today is just one of those days to mourn and that’s okay. Gods grace really is sufficient. Day by day. Morning by morning. He is faithful. Always.
God is so good!
Life is so beautiful !
This study was just what I needed to find today, in the moment I’m in. I am learning that there is a time for everything and that God is present in both the mourning and the joy.
I am so grateful for this study. It has been one year since my dad went to be with the Lord. We lost him to heart disease and am so grateful for the extra year that were given with him. This study spoke to my heart that I am ready to deal with the grief and loss of him. I have two young kids that will never get see their pops again until a later time in life. He left us way to early in life but he did leave an awesome legacy. His faith for the Lord was SO strong. Thanks again for this study and opening my eyes again to so many things.
Renee, it’s been just over a year since I lost my dad and this weekend was tough. Not for any particular reason besides wanting to call him (because he believed in me) and not having him to talk to. Praying for continued strength for you and your family as they walk beside you. I ask for extra hugs from my hubs and daughter on the tough days.
Striving towards God in these devos. So thankful for a forum like this where we can praise His name!
Thank you for this. My heart is full and I can’t wait to read more.
I feel less alone in knowing that God is there in happiness and in sorrow. I find solstice in the fact that there are moments that are meant for sadness and that He sees that and walks with me still.
This devotional series is made for me, for such a time as this. I recently miscarried the second time this year, and meanwhile my closest friends are announcing pregnancies to the world. I am literally weaving between the lines of mourning and dancing, grief and celebration. These scriptures are hitting home in an incredible way. Thankful for this community.
Beautiful. I got choked up reading, feeling the life inside my own womb kicking and wiggling.
So much hurt, pain, and loss and simultaneously joy in our lives. I have 5 adorable grandchildren who are full of joy and life and eager to explore the world. I adore seeing the world through their eyes. I live with my mother who struggles with severe dementia, full of paranoia, distrust, and confusion. My heart is broken as I watch her disappear in front of my eyes. As we sit on the back porch watching the 5 explore, giggle, and run I am mourning my mom’s anxiousness and narrowing world. I cry out to God for the strength and patience to continue to care for my mom and thank Him for the joy of being with my favorites and to see life through their eyes.
Gayle,
I feel your pain so much! My mother passed away in April of this year. She had dementia for 6 years. It was the hardest road that I have ever traveled. I became the mother to the mother that had mothered me. I questioned God at times along the journey and my faith wavered at times, I will say. My mother was a dear lady who loved The Lord and I took comfort in knowing that she had eternal life. When she died, I was with her every moment until she left this earth. I wanted to speak at her funeral and I prayed about what to say. Here’s what I learned: God is good no matter what our circumstances. HE never changes. God’s grace is sufficient for every situation-including your mother’s dementia and your journey of caring for her. I can see a little more clearly now that God worked on me throughout this journey. Trust in God. Pray for strength. He will see you through this time. It is only a time. I am sad some days when I think of her, but what I think about is what she is doing in heaven and what her days of being whole again with no sadness or sickness and being in the presence of Jesus must be like! I am happy and rejoice for her now! Be strong, Gayle. You are in my prayers.
Truly this is so beautiful. It is the perfect plan for me to start at this moment in life while suffering sad times.
I’m a 16 year old girl losing my dad to ALS, but keeping faith & leaning on Jesus’ love has made me stronger than ever.
Praying for you, Sydni Grace – I can’t imagine what it must be like to be losing your father. There’s a song by Bethel Music called “Come to Me” – the words are so uplifting and helpful. They don’t say that we won’t suffer, but they remind us God is our anchor and refuge through all suffering. Keep being faithful!
Please listen to “Though You Slay Me” by Shane and Shane with the John Piper insert ( you can find it on YouTube). It helped me cope with a suicide in my family. Sweet reminders that Jesus is faithful even in the valleys are something we need to cling to. I love you, Sydni Grace! We are blessed to have a sister in Christ like you! You are in my prayers!
I looked up the video. (: I’ve lost someone I loved unexpectedly and listening to John pipers words that our suffering is meaningful helped me so much. Thank you for sharing that. It helped tremendously.
I just lost my grandmother to ALS. Throughout all of the suffering and pain, I was able to see for myself how merciful and gracious God was to her. She passed before the worst of the disease came. Although it was torture to see her slowly fade, I saw God show her mercy for being faithful to Him. It can be hard to understand God as a loving God when we are faced with such nasty diseases like ALS…but I promise you He is right there mourning with you.
I’ll be praying for you that God will help strengthen you and give you peace through your suffering. I’m a year younger than you and I have lost my younger brother. We were very close. Sometimes it gets hard to deal with the grief on my own and all I can do is lean on God. You are right Jesus’ love makes us stronger. As long as we remember that and lean on Him, we have hope. Although your story is sad, it is also inspiring and it’s a joy to me to know that there is someone else out there around my age who is finding hope and strength in Christ. Thank you.
Death has really hit my family recently. With the loss of my father and sisters in-laws this past week and my grandmother a few months ago. I know God has a plan and I trust that despite all the sadness I feel but it’s so hard to see when your in the storm. These verses did give me some hope that there will be joy again. That yes sorrow may come but joy will come again too.
Wow, I needed this. I’ve had a hard time reconciling God’s mercy with all the terrible things – shootings, bombings, hate crimes – that have been going on in this country and around the world. I can mourn these things, while still appreciating the beauty and grace God showers on me and the world.
I am engaged to be married this October, and am filled with excitement for this new beginning. But at the same time, I have many friends going through some very dark times. I tend to over empathize- to fully take on the pain of others. I have let this rob me of my joy, and I really needed this devo this morning. The sweet reminder that joy and mourning can occur at the same time was so peacefully refreshing. And so I am mourning, yet dancing and rejoicing as well.
I need this plan right now so bad! After 7 years of planting roots in our neighborhood we are moving. Not my choice, & there’s plenty of mourning over it. Praying to see God in this situation & know His plans are better than mine.
SRT family, I could really use some prayers this evening as I mourn the loss of s recent relationship. My heart is breaking and my mind is racing. Please lift me up in your prayers if you see this. Thank you!
I know this is God. I started reading this because I’m going through a heartbreak right now due to a break up that happened about 10 days ago. I understand this immense pain and I’ll be praying for you. I hope that God has comforted you in knowing that someone else is going through the exact same thing and saw your comment. It made me feel better knowing I am not alone.
Thank you! Praying for you as well!
I am praying for the both of you. My fiance ended things after a year and half — over a text message. I am devastated and I lie awake in the fear that I’ll never be whole again. We are in this together, and I am so grateful that SRT brought us this study at this time. There is a time for everything.
Thank you praying for you as well!
I’m praying for you Allyson. I’ve been going through the same thing. I’ve never felt so broken, or unable to control my own thoughts… Know that you are loved, my precious sister in Christ, and that even in the midst of your pain, God’s plan is at work in your life. I came across the following quote a couple months ago, and it really encouraged me:
“But if God is sovereign, then plan B is a myth. No matter how dark things look to us, or how big the mess we’re in, we’re in plan A. God’s plan for us is intact, proceeding as he intended. Nothing – not our sins, failures, disappointments, bad decisions, nor the sins of others against us – can deter a sovereign God from accomplishing his purposes.”
-Carolyn Curtis James-
Praying that both we rest on God’s complete sovereignty over our lives, even when we daily question what his plan for us.
Thank you, that quote is great! Praying for you as well Taisa!
Allyson, I’ve been going through the same thing for about the same amount of time now..definitely a “God thing” that there are at least 4 of us dealing with the same grief at the same time. You aren’t alone in this ongoing journey. I’m praying that God will bring you comfort , give you rest, and show you how to trust in His plan.
Thank you! Praying for you as well!
Hope you find rest
I have a mental illness that lately has been taking a toll on me. My psychiatrist has proscribed me to a new medication and the transition has been brutal. I know that this is something God wants me to go through and I’m grateful for those that keep me in their care. However, I’m agitated and depressed that my body is reacting so badly to this new medication. I do not feel like myself. My mind is filled with dark thoughts and I mourn for the person I once was. Transitions are not easy. Right now I can find no joy.
sweet and dear friend whom I have yet to meet…I was diagnosed with bipolar and PTSD many years ago, well 10 to be certain. There have been so many ups and downs but I can say the Lord is faithful. I am struggling right now…finances are tough, my grandfather just died, I am being asked to find a new living situation, and am not certain what direction the Lord wants me to take for my future. Depression and anxiety are liars, they truly are. And I know how deep and dark that pit can get where you feel no joy. I empathize with you there sweet love. You can get through this, you are not alone. And remember, your identity is not in your illness, your identity is in who you are as a daughter of the King, loved, valuable, and cherished. I pray you find peace and even joy in the midst of this.
I can relate, but have recently made it to the other side of that rough transition. I have struggled for over a decade with anxiety that can be managed no other way except medication. I have struggled with taking medication because of my fear that this means “I’m not trusting God enough” or “not faithful enough.” But through prayer and community and God’s love, I have come to realize that medication is His way of healing for my life. I now take the medication from a place of trust in God, rather than a place of fear. My anxiety had manifested in physical symptoms for the past year – constant migraines, fatigue, pain, etc. Starting this medication was rough and increased my anxiety, but in the last week I can say that I feel good, really good. I am praying for you, I know it’s hard to have hope in the darkness, but I am confident light will begin to sparkle.
I’m so looking forward to this series, I’ve been grieving the loss of my best friend who was killed a little over a year ago when he was struck by a police car walking home with another dear friend. It’s so much easier to hide from my faith and from God when grieving, I think. It’s easier to be angry and to blame Him for the pain we feel and I have been so victim of that. I’ve lost sight of who I was and who God wants me to be, I’ve done things this past year that when I think back on them they just don’t look like me at all. I know that the majority of those things were just my futile attempts at dancing in my own earthy way, but I’ve known for a while that the only way I’ll find the right music to dance to will be through the Word and through Jesus. I’m praying that this series continues to help me grow in that and dance the way He intended me to.
I have two nieces affected by mental illness. One is currently admitted and at 32 weeks pregnant (come out of a domestic violent marriage) may need to start shock therapy. The other has Crohn’s disease and self harms. If feels too dark to even say out aloud. It feels lonely. We feel forsaken yet we know that is a lie.
God makes beauty from ashes. I will be praying for you and your nieces, for healing and strength and encouragement. This fallen world is so full of pain and sorrow, thanks be to God for his perfect love and the hope we have.
Excited and anxious for this study :)
I mourn being in what I have called a desert place. Feelings of rejection and feeling forsaken have been the reason why I have mourned in this season. Through the season I have both pressed into the Lord and also avoided him. I look forward to this study as I have struggled daily to trust the Lord and to persevere faithfully in Him.
I relate to these words more than I care to admit. Praying that this study enables you to press fully into Him without reservation!
Thank you Brittney for sharing openly I return. Praying for you as well!
This is so perfect because unlike most of the people who post, I’m in a time of dancing and celebrating the goodness of God! I think it’s amazing how powerful God is that he can take the worst moments of our lives and make something beautiful that honors him out of it, regardless of how our lives look, God is praised through it and that’s the power of our God!!!!
I have been intentionally avoiding starting this study this week. MAY 7th of this year I lost my son, Oliver at 17 weeks. I have been afraid of what these words may do to my heart. I have been blogging about my loss and how I feel the Lord moving me in my loss (faithfulmourning.com), but really, I am afraid to heal because I am afraid of feeling disconnected from Oliver. The very first sentence of this very first day gives me such hope that I will dance again and it is good and right to dance again.
You are brave. Continue to be brave for the Lord. ♡
I so understand those thoughts. I delivered and lost Hope at 21 weeks, 10 months ago. I’m praying to stop picking back up the sackcloth and truly be clothed with joy. Sometimes the sackcloth feels more comfortable than the joy. But loving and living with joy doesn’t dishonor Hope. She is in Heaven surrounded by joy. Tuning into joy isn’t “moving on” and away from her, it’s joining her in His joy. There are days I still wrap in sackcloth, and that’s ok too. Jesus meets me in both places. Love to you as you walk this path too.
How I wish I would’ve know about this study 4years ago. My husband of almost 40 years walked away. I struggled with so many emotions and feeling of Why was I never good enough. My heart still Cry’s out at times.
Reading day 1 has given me peace to know that I can mourn the death of a marriage. I know God gives me my strength I trust in his plan for me. Dancing I’m not so sure of. My ex and I danced all the time. I find it hard to think of doing that.
It is right to mourn. It is right to dance. Yes. Thank you for your beautiful words. I lost my husband six months ago and live this tension every day as I watch our four kids- they make me weep and laugh at the same time.
Needed to hear this. my parents just announced they are divorcing and it is really really nasty. My husbands parents just finalized their divorce 2 weeks ago. the weight of the brokenness in my family and husbands family plus the continual reports of murder and violence have been so heavy. thank you for this study.
My husband and I have been trying to conceive our first child for 4 1/2 years. We just found out today that our 4th IVF cycle did not work. We are heartbroken and grieving what could have been. :(
My fiancé and I had been together for 4 yrs, we had two children 2 dogs and a home….. Everything was PERFECT DECEMBER24, 2014….. We enjoyed our extended family that day and night it was a blessing, as we laid our heads dwn to rest a couple hours he woke up to tell me how much he wanted to sleep beside me because we slept in the living room to bring in Christmas together…… As he laid beside me he died within seconds right in front of our two kids and our big beautiful Christmas tree on DECEMBER 25th 2014 I miss him so much my soul hearts and cries out to God why?!?! But there is ALwAYS the question … Why not?
Dear Christina, my heart breaks for your story. My husband and I have not yet started to have children but we’ve been told our road will not be easy with issues on both sides. Know that you are in my prayers and my heart aches with you m for what might have been. I have no idea what the future holds for you or I- but I hold tight that my God is a BIG God and He knows each heart ache and each victory. For all victories are through Jesus. Do not lose heart – for He truly has a plan.
Today, my time hop reminds me that my sweet brother went to walk streets of gold 3 years ago. The emptiness is still there, but I can, again, dance. The knowledge that he is at the feet of Jesus can only bring me joy & the need to dance!
After the death of my two oldest children, I find myself so lost spiritually. I’m so looking forward to grieving and dancing in these next two weeks.
This is beautiful.
What a valuable way to refocus on things that matter the most!
33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
This is the most beautiful thing I’ve read in a while. There’s so much going on in the world but the very truth of humanity is there will be both good and bad. But where is our value of life? Our hope?
Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:1-3)
Jesus’ promise to return for His followers was given to bring us heavenly comfort. How comforting to us, in this troublesome world, to know that Jesus will be back for all of us who have followed Him here on earth. Soon and very soon!
Recently I’ve been experiencing so much sorrow, worry, and anxiety. I feel like joy and dancing is out of my reach, like a mist or fog that I can’t quite grasp. I know it’s not true though, because the joy of the Lord is always present. The joy of the Lord is my strength. I need to dance again! I’ve been mourning for too long; it’s left me exhausted
My brother passed away 6 weeks ago. This is exactly what I needed to hear tonight. Thank you for the sweet promise that the Lord is always good, all the time He is good.
I have been mourning the loss of my mom , Dad, Grandmom, Grandfather and Aunt for years know in September exactly it will be 8 years since suddenly my mom was torn out of my life so tragically. Before that I thought that I was a strong woman of faith but the grieving process over my loss had me so mad and hurt that I started to doubt if God was even real and if he was how could one person experience so much loss!!! My Aunt sent me this link to read this devotion and man how it just punched me in my face for 8 years all I have done is mourn and allowed no real joy into my life this message was sent at the perfect time in my life all those years of being closed minded to allow myself to dance and celebrate the good because life and Death do go hand and hand without life you can’t experience death!!! God is good and faithful it’s time to dance and even the dark moments of life
Mary, I wish I could give you comfort in your mourning but I know you don’t know me, I just want to let you know that I’m praying for you
Just last week I miscarried. We has complications with our son, now 6 and healthy, and then a 3 year separation, but this is the most difficult season yet. I was so sure this was our promised child, God has given us the name about 1 1/2 ago and then God confirmed with both my husband and I. This study popped up and I knew I needed it. God has been gracious with his comfort and peace, but it doesn’t change the fact that I don’t have my baby girl and I won’t get to hold her, hear her cry. I know that God has her in his hands, but I want her here with me so badly. I am overwhelmed with grief at the loss of my baby girl but also overwhelmed with comfort and peace know where she is. I am hoping for the day my sorrow is joy and I dance again. Today was so sweet and comforting in this season of grief.
I just found out that a friend’s only child passed away unexpectedly a few days ago. Her daughter was 31, with 2 small children, and a loving husband. My friend has had a lot of hard times and this one probably the worst. I know she feels God has abandoned her. Please pray for her.
Thank you for sharing some of your story with us; God is glorified when we look to Him and trust His promises in the midst of our pain and confusion. We lost our daughter three weeks ago, learning there was no longer a heartbeat at her 30-week check up. “Yet this I recall to mind, therefore I have hope: The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassion a never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness… Therefore I have hope in Him.” I am blessed today by your encouragement and the message of these verses echoed in the Day 1 texts. My heart hurts, but I look forward to the rest of this study with thanksgiving.
❤️❤️ this is beautiful
I have never really had anything bad happen to me before because I am only 12 but I just want to say that he is with us and keep your heads up because you can always just look up to him and ask him for help.
Your faith is beautiful. Guard it mightily all your life because the things of this world have a way of testing us all. I’m so inspired by you, Logan.
this past Sunday (not yesterday, but a week ago), my very best guy friend, whom I’d known since we were 14 (me) and 13 (him), passed away suddenly and tragically and without warning. I just got home from my hometown of Lubbock, Texas at a little after 9pm from attending his funeral. He left behind a new bride, and they just found out a couple months ago that they were going to be first time parents… I’m so overwhelmed with such an incredible grief and sorrow, I truly feel as though my body and mind and heart are shutting down and refusing to work. I have never been this broken before in my life. The grief is so overwhelming, it’s as if I’ve ceased to exist in my own body and am now watching myself exist from the outside, like third person. I don’t even know if this makes any sense at all, but you would think with my grief being so overwhelming, I would have finally just had a complete mental and emotional break down. I feel like I’m constantly trapped and gripped with anxiety, fear and in the midst of a full-on panic attack. They handed out cards to those close to the family after his funeral, which are for 24 phone hours of free grief counseling. The woman gave me several. (Each one has a specific redeemable code). I guess she saw what an absolute mess I was, and thought I needed serious help. Sighhhhh. I’m thinking about calling. It’s a 24 HR line. I am just not usually the one to accept help from others. I’m always the rock everyone leans on. Everyone I’m close enough to that I feel comfortable confiding in, is also grieving, and I can’t do that to them. His name is Trevor Reed Black. He was only 34 years old. They believed he died from a heart problem he was supposed to have surgery to fix this week. How about that for an extra kick to the gut? He went to sleep Saturday night and then just never woke up. Anyway, thank you for letting me share, reading and taking the time to “listen.” Thank you again… I love you Trev, my world is shattered without you here…
I’m so sorry Kay! You and your friends family are in my prayers. I don’t have an eloquent words of wisdom; just give yourself permission to grieve and allow God to minister and comfort you as only he can do. If you feel like you need to talk to someone call the Grief hotline. Sometimes it just helps to get it out, to hear ourselves voice our pain.
I know what you mean about the out of body experience, I had lived that way for almost a year. Not really wanting to feel anything at all; life was so tender. My sister passed away suddenly from a unknown heart infection and it rocked my family’s world. I pray that you call at least once, it helps to have a unbiased ear, someone listen to your grief. For me it happen at a connect group I just unloaded and that was the breaking point when I’d return to the living. Mourning is heavy…it’s hard to carry it by yourself.
I pray for the Black family and for you. Please call. I wish I could reach over and give you a hug.
So thankful for this reminder that it is right to mourn a loss, and it is right to dance when things are good.
My heart has been quite closed recently. I feel distant from God and haven’t engaged in studying or reading His word or praying. My life has felt stagnant, directionless, and I told my husband last night I feel like I’m treading water in the middle of the ocean. Staying in one spot with a million miles stretching before me in every direction. I read just a handful of the comments and have been humbled by the tragedies and difficulties many women are experiencing. God, You take each of us by the hand and lead us to a place where you can hold us close and extend Your grace. Please give me patience, humility, and a heart that is open to Your timing and teaching.
I’ve had that same feelings for the past few years. I hope to strengthen my connection with God and you do the same.
My husband and I have lost two babies within the past 9 months. Nothing can prepare your heart, mind, body for what it’s like to experience the death of a child. Our first baby would have been due Thursday of this week, and I can’t help but wonder what he/she would have been like, look liked. I’m not good at this mourning thing, I’m better at sweeping it under the rug and casting an appearance of strength when inside I feel like a shattered mess. Praying this study really helps me learn that there is beauty in the mourning and the dancing.
I’m so very sorry, I have lost babies to miscarriage, as well. And you are right, there is nothing that can prepare you. I am praying for you and your husband right now.
Thankful for this in this current time nationally and internationally. When my life isn’t personally affected by tragedies in the news, it’s hard to connect and mourn sin appropriately. As writing helps me process and pray, these words came out of a time of prayer for current issues and worship of who God is and will always be. So glad for assurance in the Lord when our world is full of uncertainty.
https://keptnear.wordpress.com/2016/07/19/a-prayer-in-time-of-injustice-fear-and-too-frequent-tragedy/
I really appreciate this post! I have felt a lot of tension lately between terrible things occurring in several friends’ lives and on a global scale versus the wonderful things that have been happening in my life lately. I sometimes feel bad or guilty celebrating the good when there are so many who are grieving and hurting. I appreciate you pointing out that mourning and dancing can exist simultaneously, and that’s okay. This is something I will continue to think about and ponder. Thank you!
This is truly real. Grief and discomfort experienced in this world are inevitable. Even Christ said we would have many troubles. But in Him there iS always hope and victory. …”take heart, I have overcome the world”.
In the midst of my sadness (loosing beloved Grandmommy, and standing in faith with an uncle fighting for his life even today) we have hope that God is Emmanuel-He is with us, and will never give us more than we can bear. He IS faithful and ever present. And calls us blessed when we morn, because we get to know Him as comforter. Thank Holy Spirit. What a good Father in heaven we have.
When my dad passed away several years ago i remember being at his funeral, it was actually at the house we had shared together when he passed, when the family had gathered together that i recall being outside with some of my family members. I don’t remember what we were talking about but i remember laughing. I was shocked that i was laughing becauae i didn’t understand why i could but i was. My dad was a big part of my life and i was always afraid that i would never be happy if and when he passed away. But i was shown differently. Its not that i was happy but i could still laugh in light of a huge loss in my life.
Divorce is what has led me here. The death of the life I thought was mine. In the blink of an eye, my life was shattered. I am 30 years old, the mother of 2 beautiful boys, 12 & 7, and a child of God. I’ve always been a believer, I have always believed God’s plan is greater than our own, but let me tell you, divorce can rattle up every emotion God gave us, and it sure did for me. I met my husband at 16 and we built a beautiful life together, overcame obstacles, and it seemed that my shotty childhood was being turned into an amazing adulthood. I mourned as a child, living with friends from the age of 12, but after graduation, I began to dance. All the doubt and insecurities that had once flooded my mind were gone. I celebrated a love I had never known, both from my husband and our son. I was only 18, young and naive, but I was strong. My husband and I raised my younger brother from 14 through high school and a couple of years after graduation. Sure, money was tight, we struggled, but we were a family. I finished college, started a career as a paralegal, he started a career in oil & gas. We welcomed another son just a few months shy of my 24th birthday. We were steady, stable, and in love. Oh how I danced. When people would ask how we did it, I would simply say, “By The Grace of God.” But just like that – at 10:42 pm on September 11th, he walked out, 6 weeks later he was living with another woman and her child, and a month often that, I found out they were expecting a child together. I was still trying to learn to sleep without him next to me, the idea of him becoming a father to a child I was not carrying was unfathomable. I fought for him to come home, I encouraged counseling, I was at church praying, I was home praying, I was praying in my car, in my shower, I called upon God every hour of the day. I did not dance anymore. I cried and I cried a lot. I hid as best I could from the kids, they would barge in on me hiding in the bathroom crying from time to time, or see the tears rolling out from beneath my sunglasses if a song struck a nerve. I managed through, though. The baby was born, and he made the decision to stay with her. He told me repeatedly he didn’t know what the right decision was, I begged him to turn to God for the answers, but he couldn’t. It’s been nearly 2 years since he left and 9 months since the divorce was final. Over the past year, I have danced, I have seen joy, but I still mourn deeply. A man walked into my life shortly after the divorce was final, we dated, and I truly believed that God had brought him in my life to prove that a love that I had never felt existed. I danced! My friends and family rejoiced! He left though and I mourned again. But the mourning that followed was a different mourning. I was confused and still am. When my husband left, I knew that I was supposed to fight for my marriage. I had no regret, no doubt in my mind. I didn’t care what my family and friends said, God put it on my heart to love my husband through his mistakes, mistakes he admitted, and that is what I did. I didn’t turn my back on him, not once. Now, I am lost. I have lost friends, people now look at me differently because I am single, women talk behind my back. I haven’t changed who I am. I do not know where I fit in this world anymore. I am ready to dance again. I pray, God, that you open my eyes and heart to your abundant blessings.
You are so strong for sharing this. God is working even when tho can’t see it! Stay strong and know that He has a bigger plan for you. Praying for you.
I needed this today, and had no idea what it would mean, even this morning. But God in His sovereignty did. Thanks be to Him alone who holds my heart.
Two weeks ago, I miscarried my first pregnancy. This child was so so wanted and we were so excited about starting our family! My husband and I had been trying for almost a year and we were only a few weeks away from telling everyone (we had already told our close friends and family). I’m 23 and perfectly healthy and really struggling with how and why this happened. I feel like my grief is constantly right below the surface and it’s making me feel numb to everything else. I feel like the family we long for is so out of reach and I feel hopeless. I know that God is always faithful, never leaves us, is the almighty comforter and his mercies are new every morning, but I’m still struggling with being frustrated with God for allowing this to happen, even though I do feel closer to him because of it and I don’t feel abandoned by him in my grief. I am really trying to run towards Him, choose joy, and stay hopeful and faithful for gods plan for our family, but it is so hard.
Even though ive been saved for years now, i feel like a baby christian stumbling through my life. Ive been through alot and i long for peace. Hoping this plan will teach me to be patient in my process . Looking forward to growth in God.
My aunt and uncle have been trying to conceive for years–two miscarriages but no children. Before I became Christian I became pregnant at age 19. I’m now one year away from graduating from a 4-year nursing program and I have a healthy three-year-old boy who is sleeping just feet away from me as I write this. I wish I could’ve had the godly wisdom and selflessness to place my son for adoption with my aunt and uncle. Yet, my son has brought me closer to God and has propelled me into a career in which I can serve Christ daily. God has used my son to teach me about enthusiasm, and through motherhood I have experienced some of the first real joy I’ve felt since my father died twelve years ago. So much mourning and so much dancing all at the same time.
I am at a time in my life where I know that I should be so thankful for all of the blessings I have, I should be dancing! But my husband and I have been trying to get pregnant for months and months and each disappointing month has been wearing on my heart. I’ve had friends that went through this and I had no idea what it felt like. I have certainly learned that words have power and to be kind because you never know what someone is going through. My husband prays for “the desire of our hearts” each night, and I know that if we ask, He is faithful. But I can’t help but mourn what I feel I am lacking… this study has already given me some much needed truth!
Mourning along with you; hugs to you and prayers for His comfort
My son should be 1 month old now. But instead he was born early at 22 weeks and 2 days. These last few months have been some of the hardest of my life and the time since his due date has been especially hard. I keep finding myself looking for reasons and another handhold on my climb of faith. This devotion is so needed for life is full of the ups and downs. And I can do (and get through) all things through Christ who strengthens me.
I have been so looking forward to this study. In May, my ex-boyfriend and his current girlfriend (19 and 20) died in a car accident. My ex and I were together in high school and it wasn’t the best relationship, we slept together. The mourning process has been absolutely devastating and very complicated. Couple that with all of the other tragedies recently on the news…at the same time, God has given me a wonderful new boyfriend, a Godly man who gives me something to dance about. My current boyfriend was good friends with my ex and we have been able to support each other through the grief and are doing this study together. Prayers to all of you sisters!
Praying for you as you grieve, Maria!
I’ve had this app for ages but this is the first devotion I’ve read on here. It came at the right time. I’ve been feeling so anxious, angry, fearful and sad about everything that’s going on in the world, and how us humans can treat one another with such indifference. Today’s reading and everyone’s comments have encouraged me and given me strength for the day, and for that I am thankful.
A friend recommended this to me. My boyfriend went missing 17 days ago on his way to see me. Exactly one week ago he was found dead from accidental causes. I’ve been so lost these past few weeks. I’ve gravitated closer and closer to the Lord to find answers. Although I may never have all the answers, I’ve found comfort and love in the Lord and my church. This is my first time losing someone and grief is new to me, but I am thankful that I have been led here and closer to God.
Praying for you Selena!
It is as if God is answering my prayers and questions in my life right now. I have two children age 23 and 21. Their father and I divorced a year ago. It has been a time of grief and mourning the loss of what could have been. However, it has also been a time of joy and dance. My son’s first girlfriend. My daughter turning 21 and getting ready to go on her first date. She is also going into her last year of college and planning and worrying about the future. My son confiding in me how he felt about this special girl and his heart broken when they broke up. ….and me wondering, what do I make of my life now? feeling full of love for my children, missing a partner in my life, and knowing that it is time to let go. What do I do with my life now? asking God to guide me and use me for his purpose. Thank you! This is exactly what I needed today to keep on moving!
I my self have been through a loss of a parent. My father passed away 5 years ago and I still have problems coping. I have found the unconditional love of God throughout the years. It is still hard and does not seem to get much easier but I try to rely on God and his plans for the future.
This study has come at the most perfect time for me. My first baby was stillborn four months ago and it has been the hardest thing I’ve ever had to go through. I still struggle some days, but God lovingly helps me to heal a little more every day. My daughter’s due date was supposed to be this week, so I’m just amazed that God set it up that this study would start the very same week! I’ve already been blessed by the first reading. Thank you. ❤
“In this world you may have many troubles. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
What an anchor. What an absolute miracle is it to have Jesus as an anchor.
I have experienced, these last few months, the intimacy of know ing Christ through pain. Our little, almost ready baby, was tangled in her umbilical cord and died within me. She would be 3 months old right now. I labored and birthed her and was graced to even have joy in the midst of her death. I still can not believe it really happened. In the past when I’d consider going through such a tragedy I simple could not fathom how it would be possible to endure such a thing. But, when the hour came and trial arrived His grace steadied. Mourning and dancing is such a paradox but it’s true. Only our God can do this. In my experience they have been simultaneous even. Feeling horrified that I beheld my dead daughter, yet feeling so beloved that God would bring such a trial to draw me to Himself. I often feel crazy.
This touched me deeply, Paige. Thank you for sharing such a beautifully raw testimony — praying for you as you continue to walk this difficult journey of balancing the mourning with the dancing.
What an amazing perspective. Thank you for these words from your experience. You’ve put into words what I’ve come to feel in my losses…it’s humbling to think God calls us through trials because He trusts our faith is strong, yet He still reveals the weakness we need to need Him more (if that makes sense). Much love to you sister. Take time to grieve your precious daughter, you lovely Brave Soul.
I am mourning for all of the women that have posted comments about their loss. Although I have not lost anyone close to me anytime recently I have been feeling a great sense of anxiety and sadness due to the things going on in the world (different shootings etc.) Sometimes I look at my 1 year old son and feel guilt that I brought him into a world of brokenness. Sunday this thought kept reoccurring in my head as the news was on at a local restaurant while we were eating . Afterwards, a notification popped up on my screen about this study.
This is a reminder that even through all the brokenness in the world it is a joyous life and Love conquers all. I pray to dance and appreciate my joyful life that I have instead of focusing on the brokenness in the world . May I be fast and eager to pray for those morning and more grateful for the beauty there is as well.
My dad recently had a stroke where he has loss complete control of the right side of his body. He’s 64 and in good shape, so it is tough to understand and to watch his learn to walk and write again. I’m learning to be strong for him and telling him that there is indeed a light at the end of this tunnel. I pray that he continues to go to god which his anxieties and worries.
A friend recommended this study to me after being told at the dr today that I am going to miscarry. Reading this has brought me so much comfort and hope in the midst of great pain and loss.
Because of Christ, I will dance again.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I have recently gone through this same heartbreak, and I know just how hard it is. I have found myself drawing closer in my faith during this time, and I choose to think of that as a blessing in this hard time. I so hope this study will help everyone in our situation gain some sort of peace. You are strong and will learn just how strong you are in the coming time. You are right, and we will dance again.
This study popped up on my phone and I quickly dismissed the notification. My dad passed 4 months ago and early this week my boyfriend decided that ending our relationship would be best. I don’t know how to lose two people at once. Reading day 1 of this study filled me with hope. I am so broken and discouraged and confused and lost. I am encouraged by everyone’s journey here and find excitement in the relationship I have with Jesus and a chance to pursue it more intentionally during this season as a single woman of God.
Can’t wait to start this study. My niece gave this to me as an early birthday present. My mom and I shared birthday celebrations with our birthdays being August 13 & 14. Two years ago on August 10th, I found my mom dead sitting at her kitchen table. I went hysterical. I try not to relive that day in my head & to focus on how blessed I was to have had her and to celebrate the wonderful person she was. I am thankful but some days I break down remembering and longing for her presence. I know I’ll see her again in heaven but sometimes I just cry longing for missed opportunities. I can’t celebrate my birthday without feeling sad for not being able to celebrate hers!
My heart breaks for all of you who have experienced the loss of a baby. It is one of the most painful times in my life. I have mourned the loss of my baby for two years now. It gets easier, but there will be a scar on my heart forever. It will be an amazing day when I get to meet my baby and dance with him in heaven, while praising our amazing Lord! You are all in my prayers today. God is Love
I love the lines “We must never stop mourning brokenness. It is right to mourn. And we must never cease to celebrate life and beauty. It is right to dance.” I struggle to embrace the vulnerability that comes with acknowledging the brokenness in my life but I am learning if I want to fully experience God’s joy I have to allow myself to grieve in order to then one day dance.
I’m looking forward to this study. My Dad passed away just over 6 months ago. And I think I’m just now coming to terms with it, or haven’t accepted it. Still unsure. A broken heart is the loneliest and so physically painful. The hardest part is the rest of the world moving on when your world has been shattered into a million pieces. I hope to be dancing soon since I know my Dad is dancing with his savior.
I lost my 35 year old sister 298 days ago. Understanding what brokenness is has come with watching her 4 children mourn. We have until the past few weeks pretended it didn’t happen and that she was just away. Reality has set in and true mourning has started for all of us. What I am clinging to is that joy comes in the morning! God is good. God is faithful. And in the midst of mourning there is so much dancing to do!!!
Amanda, I feel your pain. I lost my mom and younger brother (19), two years ago. It’s still hard seeing my friends with their moms or his friends getting married and starting careers. It sometimes feels like I’m the only one still in pain, like everyone else has moved on, and I’m stuck. It’s a loss we can never move on from, it’s always a part of us. But it’s hard moving forward when you are so broken and feel alone. Prayers and love!
God is so amazing. I woke up this morning feeling alone and lonely. I’m a young widow of seven years and I’m exceedingly lonely. Trying to find love again has been a very difficult and arduous process. On top of that, I’m trying to raise two young men on my own without their father and my husband. So, feeling alone this morning, I asked God to help me. I went to my emails and “stumbled upon” this Mourning and Dancing study. Then, I began reading the posts of all of you beautiful women of God. I am not alone. You are not alone. We are in this together, sisters, and I love you. Thank you, each of you, for sharing your pain and part of your story. Praise be to our God! I love Him so much.
May our Father fill you with His Peace and keep filling the role as your Spiritual Husband as His plans for your life continue with how He has orchestrated it! May His presence take forefront in your home and His Word be you and your boys’ very breath!
Prayers for you sweet Patricia. I am a widow of 16 years and the mother of a 17 year old girl. I can relate to your struggle of loneliness and trying to raise your boys in the midst of it. Continue to lean in the Him – you are doing an amazing job!
As many women have previously stated, this study has come at the perfect time. Anytime would have been perfect as there is always brokenness and there is always joy in the world and in our lives. Between the recent few months of worldly heartache I have also broken up with my boyfriend of 3 years. I am overwhelmed with a large home that needs repairs, being alone in a town halfway across the country from family and a daughter who is about to be a senior in HS. At the same time I am finding daily joy – the yard I have to mow means I have land, the fascia that I have to repair means I have a roof to sleep under, the house I clean means there is someone I love deeply inside it…The joy I feel now exceeds the mourning for the 3 year relationship. Thank you for this study and the timeliness of it. God’s Word is always perfect!
I feel like the season I am in has lasted a little to long and I can’t tell if it’s the season I am in or the relationship I am in. I have just been praying and praying for clarification with this so that I can feel more joyful all of the time and less frustrated. Prayers from the community would be very much appreciated. Thank you all!
I so need this! My now ex husband walked out & never looked back. I’ve been mourning and can’t seem to find my joy. My heart is broken, I’m hurt and just plain old afraid. I know that God has a plan for me, but right now as I mourn, I so much want to dance again. I never knew that a broken heart and loneliness was so painful. I’m trying to hold onto my faith, but I must admit, I want this season to turn into to dancing…..soon. Please pray for me!
I have never gone through exactly what you are going through, but I have had several times in my life when I was very afraid, grieving and felt abandoned by God. Looking back, I think it helped that I screamed out to God in anger about my fears and sorrow. A friend kept telling me, “God is faithful”. I really did not feel He was. He is. His ways are not our ways and He has a plan. Your willingness to do this study and your courage and pain come through your writing. I love how honest you are and I believe there will be a day that God will use this experience to lift someone else up who is mourning. You are in my prayers, Michelle.
I went through what you’re going through. My ex husband left and has never looked back, not only to me but to my daughter who was 3 at the time. I wondered at times if God had forgotten us. Through that trial I became closer to God. The more I sought him, the more he revealed himself. My daughter, who is 12 now, prayed one night when she was about 5, “Jesus, I don’t know why my dad is so mean, but I’m so glad to have you as my father in heaven.” He was there for her too all along. Unfortunately, we have to go THROUGH trials, not around them. I tried so hard to control my happiness. It wasn’t until I gave up myself to him that things turned around. There was a moment of surrender when I had resigned to the fact that this was all I was ever going to get out of life. I’d hit bottom in my grief. I met my husband who has been a wonderful father to my daughter about a month later. I’m so glad to know you have your faith to carry you through. Today is not forever, and He only wants good for you. This time will pass. Praying for you as you get through this trial. Stay strong!
Honestly, this study couldn’t have come at a better time for me. About 5 years ago, I was in a sexually abusive relationship with a guy from my college and suffered mentally and physically through that. A couple years later, I got married and I just had my first child- a little girl. I’ve hit this point in my life where since having my baby, I’ve been experiencing PTSD from my past and it’s been affecting me. This study truly is helping us women come together and be vulnerable and study the word of God through our different situations in life. Looking forward to the rest of this study.
Praying for you, sister. I was a crime victim a decade ago and suffered ptsd from it. A good therapist and the Lord helped me overcome this. This week I read a book called Finding Spiritual White Space. The author talks about working through her ptsd from an abusive childhood, and I felt like it spoke to my heart. The Lord can walk beside us and love us through these dark things.
This study hit me like a wave. After losing an amazing woman of God to a car accident last week my husband and I were propelled forward by her example of faith to take action to begin having children, a decision we have been prolonging in a lack of faith. Had we not reflected on her death the new life we desire to bring into our home wouldn’t have been brought forward. I’m feeling freed to experience the emotions God has given me.
This is so true…they never take turns between mourning and dancing. My dad died suddenly just a couple months into my new marriage. Now as I grieve him and celebrate new milestones with my husband, I also pray God would bless my fertility and allow us to conceive. Many of my greatest losses have come at the same time as some of the happiest milestones. It’s hard not to think of it as a trade off…this mourning times are so hard to see through. But joy does come in the morning…eventually the dancing lights new life through the loss. Thank you for this.
Currently dealing with depression. 30, single, treated like an annoyance at my job, and recently moved to a new city so staying in touch with old friends and making new ones has been hard. I’m unable admit to my family that I’m depressed as they continue to make me feel like a failure because of where I stand in life right now. I have full trust that God has a mighty plan for me, but finding joy in every day has been tough. This study came at the perfect time and I cannot wait to feel the joy from knowing the Lord again!!
Lacie, you’re doing so well even just in admitting your depression to yourself and to this community! I am proud of you and will be praying for you.
Lacie, you are in my prayers! I’m going through a similar season. Along with losing my mom and brother, I’m almost 30, single (the only single one of my friends!), living back home in a town I swore I would never move back to, and have a job that is not moving towards a career. I too have trust that God has a great plan and journey for me, I just have to stop comparing others journeys to my own! I pray we are able to work through the depression and really listen to God, so that we are ready to make moves for His Will when he calls us too!
My boyfriend is currently going through depression unknowingly. He has little drive to do anything, he sleeps all day and stays up all night, he doesn’t try and find work, there’s legal stuff going on that he won’t confide in towards anyone… he doesn’t try to make much effort in the relationship and has tried to bolt several times. I feel God is calling me to hold onto him, not because he may be a future husband but to keep an eye on him. I’ve talked to his family and friends, and this negative cycle is something that keeps coming around in his life so I know it’s not me and the relationship causing it like he keeps blaming on me. He isn’t a believer despite his whole family believing. He runs from God and from loving people in his life. Our relationship is the longest he’s been in in years.
This is the first time I’ve ever caught one the She Reads Truth studies at the start, and I don’t believe that’s by accident. The Lord keeps putting the beatitudes in front of me this past week as well, which I also don’t think is by accident. Please pray for me for guidance and for my boyfriend to soften his heart and moreso soften his thoughts to the Lord who cries out for him. I can feel God surround him, in a way I’ve never felt before. My boyfriend is not someone I can marry right now, but I feel called to stay. I just want him to be okay.
Praying for you and Gods wisdom over your situation!
Between being severely ill and facing a huge amount of uncertainty in my life, I really need this study right now. Thank you for putting this out there! I hope it’s okay if I ask for prayer from anyone who is willing.
I’ll be praying for you!
Thank you so much, Allison!
This series has come at such a pivotal point in my life. God has me right in his hands and mercy.
There are parts of me that are dying so that I may live. The process is not easy and I must admit, quite scary. But I know that he is with me.
as a 40something single woman who is in a renewed season or layer of the invisible grief of the life that didn’t happen, I welcome this study. I long to authentically feel joy in my life & others’ celebrations while also being real & seeking healing in the midst of being broken hearted
My dad passed away June 6th this year in a terrible accident. Thank you for this study.
This series could not have come at a more opportune time. I recently broke up with my boyfriend of almost two years, and it has taken a toll on my heart, my spirit, and my faith. In efforts to lean onto God in my grief, I stumbled upon this. Excited to see where I shall be two weeks from now.
Praying for you Taylor. You are not alone. My boyfriend and I of almost 3 years broke up in April, and the Lord has been so gracious to me. Peace that surpasses ALL understanding is his anthem.
Taylor, man have I been there. Losing a relationship of that length can be really hard. Currently I’m feeling like I’m losing my boyfriend, or have already lost him- but regardless of where it leads, I’ve loved and lost significant loves before. Praying for you, you’re doing what is right by studying. <3
This is already so, so good for the soul. I cannot wait to dive deeper into this painful, but healing topic.
Experiencing some depression and anxiety now in life. Very hard to battle alone. Keeping my eyes on him and hoping for better days ahead. Excited to see how God uses this plan in my life over the next 2 weeks! Prayers for all and thank you for putting this together!
MK, I know your pain. I’ve dealt with depression/anxiety for a little while now too. My friend read me this verse when I had hit my lowest point.
Psalm 42
For the director of music. A maskil[c] of the Sons of Korah.
1 As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, my God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?
3 My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
4 These things I remember
as I pour out my soul:
how I used to go to the house of God
under the protection of the Mighty One[d]
with shouts of joy and praise
among the festive throng.
5 Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
6 My soul is downcast within me;
therefore I will remember you
from the land of the Jordan,
the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.
7 Deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
8 By day the Lord directs his love,
at night his song is with me—
a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God my Rock,
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I go about mourning,
oppressed by the enemy?”
10 My bones suffer mortal agony
as my foes taunt me,
saying to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
11 Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
I hope this can become your new song. Prayers for you sister!
MK, you’re already on such a great step just in admitting you’re dealing with depression and anxiety! That’s the biggest step. Remember you’re never alone, I’ll be praying for you!
Oh, I need this study. I am going through a hard, abusive marriage. Being a 24-year-old Christian with a failing, abusive marriage is incredibly hard on so many levels. It has uprooted my life. I need to learn how to mourn. I need to learn how to dance. I need this.
Praying for your strength through the season you are in.
Dear Ana,
Please know someone is here who understands. You will be thought of and prayed for everyday.
This is going to be good & God is going to do big things through this series! Thank you for showing me a time to dance.
Very interesting and very good timing on this study…my boyfriends grandmother is suffering stage 4 lung cancer and has a few months left to live, my aunt is homeless and needs rehab, my family is going through big transition with moving, and I’m learning to thank God for his faithfulness and not just go to church to be blessed, but to give Jesus the blessing and honor and glory he deserves. When life brings you to your knees, it is best to make that place an altar of worship.
My husband and I have been on a journey of Mourning & Dancing for the past 7 years; sometime I wonder if the cycle will end this side of Heaven and other times I am so grateful for what the Lord has done through it that I don’t want life any other way. It started 2 years after we were married and we realized we were infertile. 4 years later, 2 rounds of IVF, the loss of 3 of our sweet babies prior to birth, and 13 weeks of bed rest /preterm labor scares we had our twins successfully and healthy. 4 months after the twins were born my Epilepsy took a nosedive and never went back to a controlled state so we went from there to having 2 brain surgeries, a stroke, recovery and a year of being in a trial for a Deep Brain Stimulation for my Epilepsy. The Stimulator has been working successfully now for over 10 months and we are so thankful for that but 2 weeks ago I was diagnosed with Lupus. Honestly, I don’t know how to feel other than I know time is precious; it always has been for me. Now, so much more so I want to make this life count and I want to leave a legacy of faith and faithfulness even in the midst of great trials. This devotional is exactly what my husband and I need together right now. Thanks for participating and thanks SRT for putting it all together! Much Love,
Praying for you Christina
Thanks Taylor!
What a timely study for me. My mom passed away in march of this year. As we watched the cancer eat away at her too short life I never would have believed that God would bless me with the peace and joy I felt when she went home to Jesus. Yes, she is not here with us, and I miss and grieve for her everyday. But when I find myself wishing that she were still here, God reminds me where she is. After over a decade of a failing body, momma is cancer free. The moment she took her first heavenly breath it was with a new , pain-free body. How can I not turn my tear-stained face heavenward and thank Him for taking care of her?
I’m looking forward to journeying through my grief with scripture with all of you
Thanks for sharing Joy, praying with you that this will help you through your grief. Such a beautiful testimony you’ve given of your mom’s faith and how it’s impacted you. Blessings,
I just lost my mom to cancer in February of this year. Her battle was short. I feared the moment she would take her final breath here on earth…I never knew what death looked like. But with her final breath I couldn’t help but smile and feel that peace that surpasses all understanding knowing that she was greeted by her Heavenly Father and no longer in pain. Often times its those moments of peace I remember after she passed away, that get me through the rough days. Thanks for sharing part of your story.
Two years ago, I lost my mom, my younger brother (19 years old) and both grandfathers within 4 months of each other (all separate incidents). I’ve been struggling in faith and being able to be happy again. It’s been an extremely hard road of healing and learning how to move forward with life and live a life for my mom and younger brother. I’m slowly learning to start to ‘dance’ again. The struggle has been extremely real lately, so I think this plan came at the right time for me. I know I’ll never stop mourning my loss, but I can learn to dance and celebrate in the good of God while living a life my mom & brother would be proud of. It’s hard to see everyone else’s life move forward, when theirs ended too soon.
Courtney, I can’t even begin to understand the pain you’ve gone through over the past two years, but what strength God has given you to continue day by day.! The verse that comes to mind as I read your post was when Jesus himself cried out on the cross ‘my God my God why have you forsaken me?’ Even though he knew it was part of his Fathers plan, even though he knew Incredible things would come out of it, still it hurt both spiritually, mentally and physically. But still he endured it because he knew the ending, and so do we. God will wipe every tear from your face when you see him and will help you to dance again. Thank you for posting and I pray that the Lord continues to give you His strength and you feel His presence around you in a very tangible way.
Thank you, Katy!
While people celebrate weddings and first steps and the sweetness of life, the broken world continues to break our hearts, sometimes at the very same time. The tension is there—wondering when to celebrate and when to cry. Often the best thing we can do is acknowledge that tension and do both, seeking the Lord as we navigate the complexities of this world.– You nailed it. I’m so there. Thank you
My prayers to you Jess. I have been there with fertility treatments, pain, loss and now going through a terrible divorce. Life is really painful but this reading and study gives me hope. There is still hope and faith that He has the best planned for you.. All of us.
I would like to take a moment to encourage the moms who are fresh on this grief road. I lost my 17 year old son to a car accident almost 14 years ago. I can promise you with God’s grace, much prayer, lots of tears and even some counseling if need be, you will dance again. You will have happiness again. You will trust God again. Is it easy…No way. Is it worth it ABSOLUTELY. I know first hand God is good and I can trust him. Hold tight to what your heart knows are His truths.
I’m there now. Our precious 20 year old son died 4 months ago and the pain and sadness are excruciating- though I know God is good and I love Him dearly- I sometimes think I can’t stand the pain another minute.
Amen Donns! My would be 16 year old daughter got her promotion to heaven almost ten years ago at the age of 6. It’s been a long tough road, but God is so good and faithful and I couldn’t imagine traveling this road without Him.
I was unsure whether I would do this study or not, I wasn’t feeling a pull… But after reading the comments I know why I am here. I will pray for all my SRT sisters for all of the various trials that you all are going through in life. May you find strength, comfort, and peace in Jesus Christ.
I need this study right now. This month marks five years since my husband and I started trying to have kids, and the last year has been filled with intensive fertility treatments. Deep in my heart I believed that if after all this time and heartache God allowed me to get pregnant, then of course I would have a healthy child. Instead, I suffered my first miscarriage in November, and my second miscarriage in March. Now that some time has passed and I’m processing things, I’ve just felt really hopeless and completely forgotten and forsaken by God. My heart is cold to His word, and all I want is to lie down and wait until I can be with Him and my babies in heaven. Praying that God can help my heart truly believe that I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living through this study.
My heart goes out to you, Jess. I’ve suffered a miscarriage and it is something that is unreconcilable in my mind. I remember hearing a Pearl Jam song that said “hold me til I die, I’ll meet you on the other side…” And I felt for the first time I could honor the soul that I carried and nurtured, as brief as it was. And that eternity was changed because of the soul of my baby. And the things I did to try to nurture the pregnancy were all to hold that little soul for as long as it was here. Praying for you today.
This study definitely came out in a time I need it most. I gave birth to our sweet baby boy May 26th at 20 weeks and 4 days. He was only alive for a short time, and a week later we had to bury our baby, Evan Isaiah and trust that he is in a better place. The weeks following have not been easy in the least bit and I am hoping this study can bring my heart back to trusting God again.
I can only relate to you in a small sense. I am only 16 and I have never been through anything like you have. However, my brother is in college and he is in a spiritual darkness and even state of death.
Though it is extremely hard and sad to see him like this, I have so much peace that he will be renewed and made pure again in Christ. I hope through this study you know that God has such an amazing plan for you and you will see your sweet little baby in Heaven someday.
:)
Jenna, I am in tears as I read your post. You are so loved and you little baby boy is loved so much! I am praying for you as you go visit through this time.
*go through this time.
I also understand the loss of an unborn child. I have also lost my first love, my ex-husband, to the temptations of women. I’ve suffered physically from his promiscuity and can no longer have children because of it. I’ve been on my own now for four years with my two daughters and still grieve my loneliness and find myself bitter at those who have someone to come home to every night. I am praying that this study helps me finish my mourning and begin to move into healing and dancing.
Reading comments… So much loss and hurt. It’s no wonder Jesus wept at the grave of Lazarus, seeing the pain we experience. Thank you for sharing about your sweet baby girl. I too have three babies in glory…more than I have on earth. Grief is difficult, but I’m grateful to know my God equipped me with emotions and processes to deal…and amazing friends and family members to walk alongside…
Grief. It is unexplainable. It is part of life that we must walk through at times. I have had my moments of grief to walk through several times in my life. As God’s Word shares – there is a time to mourn and there is a time to dance. In your mourning allow God to hold you – comfort you and be still. You are even allowed to be upset with Him. Stay and grieve and you will know the day that you can dance again – the dance will be different – but God gets up from holding you and He will dance with you when you are ready. But take the time you need to grieve not what others may say is enough. Grieving is as unique as your fingerprint – no one else will grieve in the same way you do. Allow God enough time to sit with you. Then dancing will come again.
I remember the last kick from my daughter. The days waiting to give birth to a baby that was not alive. The praying I had done . The empty arms and devastated heart. The decorated room,with no baby. I was angry at God………..sometimes I still ask him why me? She would be 17. I mourned with every fiber of my being. Yet,I would not have missed the dance. The intimate dance of mother and child.
I’ve been rather bitter and angry the past few days due to a fraternity boy with no regard for my feelings, resulting in a careless breakup. Ive been turning the situation over and over in my head and playing and replaying what was said, wondering what could’ve been different. After reading this devotion and the comments on it, all I have to say is wow. Sometimes all it takes is a little perspective and whole lot of God to get you back on track. Thank you everyone for sharing, my heart goes out to all of y’all.
I am excited for this study. I lost my dad very unexpectedly 3 years ago. On top of losing him my husband and myself became the main people to take care of my mother with late stage MS. My husband and I have been struggling with our relationship with God since then. We were thrown to live in a leaky and unfinished basement and made to take care of someone that doesn’t want to be taken cared for and is very angry and bitter all the time. Did I mention my husband and I were also newlyweds at the beginning of this?
I’m hoping this study pulls my anger out and makes me start relying on him again and see what he has planned for this situation.
Nicole, thank you so much for sharing this with us. I’m so very sorry for your pain and loss. Asking God to be near as you process through the wide range of emotions associated with grief, and praying His Word would be your comfort. I’m so glad you’re joining us for this study.
xoxo-Kaitlin
Thank you for your story!! I mourn with hope that one day I will dance.
I cannot wait to dive deeply into this study! I have a question on the workbook. There is a lament template that is exactly the same for every day of the study to fill out. Is there a reason or approach to take with writing the lament daily if we are lamenting the same topic throughout the study? Just trying to make sure I understand :)
Hi Tracy! Great question. It’s totally up to you! I’ve found that the different Scriptures and topics for each day have lead me to see another layer of the same loss, resulting in varying laments. I hope this helps!
xoxo-Kaitlin
This is my first study. I read your blog for a long time, Raechel, since we share the loss of our baby daughters and your words have always resonated with me. I am struggling with anxiety in the midst of all that is going in our world and country right now and I need these reminders daily, hourly, that Jesus has indeed overcome this world. I pray for each of you . I pray for all of the families, Black and blue and victims of terrorists at home and abroad, that have lost loved ones recently. I pray for peace for all of us. I am neither Black nor a policeman’s wife so I know my anxiety can’t even begin to compare with those of you facing daily fears and hurts for your husbands and children. I wish we could all live in peace and without fear, anger, and injustice. I pray for Jesus’ love to reach hearts darkened with anger and frustration. I pray for daily reminders that He gave His life for all of us and he has already overcome this darkness we are all facing. I pray that God shows me the way to extend His love to all those I encounter in my daily life.
Perfect timing. This is a God thing. Our mom is in the process of passing from this world. This study is comforting for us. It’s interesting that our next study is Ruth, that is our mothers name. Thank you all for these precious study times
Whim, I’m so sorry for your heartache. Praying for God’s presence to be with you and your mother in the days ahead. Love that her name is Ruth :)
xoxo-Kaitlin
As a special needs mom. I just know I am gonna love this study!!! Thank you She Reads Truth for this wonderful encouragement and study in God’s word.
Jasmine
I feel the same. I’m a foster/adoptive mom to 3 kiddos who are suffering the consequences from prenatal drug exposure. Life is so hard and I’ve lost so much in this journey.
The timing of this series could not be more perfect. My prayer is that God would reveal to me His steadfast love, presence, and faithfulness in the midst of the current season of sorrow that I’m in. When things get tough, my default is to think that God has abandoned me or that He doesn’t really care or love me after all. I know that’s not true from His word, but it’s how I honestly feel. I pray that I may learn to endure through the trials and struggle well, rather than give in to despair, and I pray that I may know from every part of my being that God is with me and for me come what may.
Praying this with you, Tolu. Thankful for the reminder that God is with us and for us! Grateful to read this plan together.
xoxo-Kaitlin
Perfect timing. Lost my dad in April after eight year battle with Alzheimer’s….watched him die over 16 days…hardest thing I’ve ever done. Today is 15 years ago that I lost my mom….today’s study was amazing!!
Glenda, thank you so much for joining us today. I’m so sorry about the loss of your parents and asking God to bring comfort and hope through this reading plan.
xoxo-Kaitlin
This message resonated with me. These past 18mos. have been a tunnel of chaos for me as I lost my Dad, had a cancer scare, lost my ex-husband in a car crash, lost my job, and then lost my mom. However, I am coming out of that pit by the grace of God.I am soon to start my New teaching job. oh I know that my mom and dad and ex-husband are in the presence of Christ dancing. My daughter and I are pressing on my daughter and I are pressing on still grieving , yet rejoicing. It is a strange thing to both mourn and dance at the same time.
DLY, thank you so much for sharing today. I’m so sorry for your losses and heartaches, and asking God to comfort you with His Truths today. Sending love your way.
xoxo-Kaitlin
Thank you for sharing. I don’t talk about my sweet baby in heaven to others as I miscarriage but last night I did to let others know I was chosen to carry out baby and I praise God for that! In the beginning it was very tough and I still have my days but rejoicing knowing my baby is with Jesus and I cannot wait to meet Him and my baby!
Tara, thank you so much for sharing. I’m so sorry for your loss, friend. Thankful for the ways He teaches us to rejoice even in sorrow. Grateful to read this plan together.
xoxo-Kaitlin
God met my baby in heaven 8 weeks ago. I was 16 weeks pregnant with him. Throughout my pregnancy we had these peculiar and incredibly tall plants growing in our yard. We had no idea what they were or how they would flower. They bloomed the second week after I lost the baby. They bloomed in a rainstorm! I felt hopeful that day for the first time in weeks! God reminded me then there was joy in sorrow. This study/narrative was emotionally charged but beautiful and sent in right time.
Thanks for sharing this, Katie—for sharing your story and your son with us. I’m so sorry he isn’t with you. And I’m so grateful for God’s present kindness to you. He is good. xo
Wow! Perfect timing of Ecclesiastes. Last night in service at church, this am in a thank you card from a friend and right now in this devotional. There’s a time for everything in life and it is all due to the goodness of God. Gonna spend some time in Ecclesiastes today
Vanessa, that is wonderful. I love it when God’s Word shows up unexpectedly! Grateful to read “Mourning and Dancing” together!
xoxo-Kaitlin
I feel like this series came at a perfect time for me. Thank you for sharing your story and I pray God continues to heal you and your family. John 16:20 really spoke to me! Thank you for letting God use you!
As many others have said, this comes at a perfect time. Over the weekend I joined many of my other college-aged friends to mourn the loss of our friend who passed a week ago in a car accident. I am so thankful for the time we all had with our dear friend but finding comfort knowing that she is now truly in a better place.
Kendra, I am so sorry for your loss. Asking God’s presence to comfort you and your friends in the days ahead. I’m so glad you’re here.
xoxo-Kaitlin
I’m excited and ready to start this series this evening. It was an answer to my prayers when I scrolled through instagram and saw the announcement about Mourning and Dancing. I am newly married and my dad suddenly died of a heart attack. I am stuck grieving heavily during what is supposed to be the best years of my life. So, I need this. Thank you!
Abby, I’m so glad you found us! I’m deeply sorry for your loss, and am praying God’s Word would be a comfort to you. Thanks for joining us today.
xoxo-Kaitlin
This study is also perfect timing for me I had a ruptured ectopic pregnancy a couple of months ago and my first miscarriage a couple of months before that. It is encouraging to be surrounded by so many others who have walked and grieved in similar shoes.
I’m just so excited for this series, because as many of you, I’ve been through a tough grieving process. I lost a boyfriend a few years ago, and spent some time wrestling through so many of the residual effects with Jesus. These passages are just such great reminders for me to focus on the fact that we must always chose to focus on the unseen, trust, and rebuild with beauty and life.
What a timely lesson for me. About an hour ago, one of my dearest friends gave birth to a beautiful daughter. Yet less than a month ago, I miscarried a baby, and I am still grieving. Yet thankfully, in Gods goodness and comfort I can fully grieve mine while truly rejoicing in hers. I can only do this knowing God as a good Father and entrusting my lost child to him. I am thankful He is with us when our hearts are at the same time on both ends of the spectrum
K, thanks for sharing today. I’m praying God teaches us more about weeping and rejoicing in community through this plan, and so glad your encouraging heart is reading along.
xoxo-Kaitlin
Thanks for your encouragement, and willingness to pour out to us!
Beautifully written and just what I needed! So thankful our Father has everything handled, even when it doesn’t feel like it! Trusting Him isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely worth it.
Yes! Love this, Jennifer. Thanks for the sweet encouragement today. Grateful to read Truth together.
xoxo-Kaitlin
What a beautiful perspective!!! A timely message for me not just because I am doing this to handle the immense grief that comes with losing my mother but the correlation to the world events and a healthy, productive way to process it all!
Simply beautiful.
‘A time to heal…’ May we all contribute to the healing that is needed in our nation and in the world. Our charge is the first and greatest commandment: ‘Love the Lord God with all your heart, soul and mind and your neighbor as yourself.’ Everyone is our neighbor. Therein lies the real challenge to us. May we give our fears to God who is able to cover us and rediscover ‘community’ as we reach out to those around us. The evil one would want to paralyze us with anxiety and fear, to keep us in mourning. May we encourage one another that God is sovereign and has defeated the power that evil professes. May we even be thankful for the insecurities in our world, for they are a clarion call to return to God!
Ah God is so good! His timing through SRT today is perfect. My mother passed away this past October. Her health had deteriorated over the prior two years and so I mourned the loss truly while she was yet alive. My father was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and tolerated only half the chemo. His symptoms have returned and his cancer markers are elevated. The CT scan is Thursday and the appointment with the oncologist is next week. I am not close to my father. Most of my family is estranged from my sister who declares herself an atheist and is quite hostile to all things Christian. I mourn the death of my mom and yet even more so the loss of relationship and understanding between other extended family members. My immediate family, however, is characterized by great joy and closeness. Oh the tenuous dance between joy and sadness! This is simply life here on this earth. I hold on to the Hope I have in Christ Jesus who gives me strength. And I pray each day for all to know Him.
Churchmouse, friend, thank you for sharing this with us. I’m so very sorry for your heartache and losses. Aching and hoping with you, and grateful to read these truths together.
xoxo-Kaitlin
This study is so timely for me also! I just celebrated my Grandmother’s one year in heaven and will celebrate my daughter’s birthday soon. I was 38 weeks pregnant at her funeral and and ugly-cried in front of my whole family trying to read Psalm 23; I am so very sad the two of them didn’t have a chance to meet on this earth. My little one reminds me of my grandmother in many ways. God’s timing of those events is mysterious to me, but I remain exceedingly thankful Grandma went to heaven in a peaceful way when she & Jesus were ready. That represents boundless blessing, I think. Hallelujah that Jesus’ work on the cross means life in the midst of death, comfort in the midst of tears!
Oh I understand friend. I had the priveledge of caring for my grandmother on her deathbed. Less than a month after her death, I found out I was pregnant with the first grand baby of the family. Wish they could have met too. Hugs mama
I have often felt the heaviness of experiencing grace- a heaviness pregnant with gratitude, but a heaviness filled with guilt as well. The duality of this has been hard to reconcile in my heart and in my faith. I think it has to deal with an improper way of “mourning and dancing…” Not giving way for the fullness of either. Eager to and thankful to come across this reading plan, hoping it can shed some light in my own journey.
Wow! Thanks for articulating that, Jess. “Not giving way to the fullness of either” is exactly where I get lost, too.
I am so glad I got the notification that this study was starting today. I am currently struggling with finding joy in this world. I should be holding an almost two month old in my arms right now, but instead I get to see posts of my friends holding their little ones. Every month is difficult, I start to feel better and hopeful and then the pain and reality that once again… it will not be this month comes and I am knocked down. This study has already spoken to me though, looking forward to hearing God’s words speak to me.
Sarah Beth, I know your pain. My baby girl’s heart stopped beating when I was 19 weeks pregnant, and one of the hardest things in the world has been seeing friends of mine who are pregnant and have little ones of their own. Know that you are not alone in your suffering, friend. xo.
I had a miscarriage recently and Psalm 139 was/is a huge comfort. Especially verse 16- that God knew the number of days in my baby’s life. How I wish there were more days, but I have to trust that He is good and in control. Lots of good stuff in there
My baby met Jesus at 16 weeks! Just 8 weeks ago. Seeing friends feel joy in announcing gender or ultrasounds is sometimes impossible. This first study spoke to me perfectly and reading comments helps so much! Much love !
J
(Sorry, I hit enter too fast above!) Just wanted to send hugs and prayers your way, since I know the feeling all too well. I had a miscarriage last fall and almost every friend I have is pregnant or has multiple babies of their own. I, too, would have been holding a two-month-old and instead, I’m going to other friends’ baby showers and getting their birth announcements. It’s so painful and feels unfair sometimes, but the verse that always comes to mind is “rejoice with those who rejoice” and “mourn with those who mourn”, which made today’s devotional so perfect. It’s also comforting to know that our Heavenly Father knows exactly how it feels to lose a child, His perfect Son. Praying that God would heal and comfort you and bring you unexpected blessings soon!
This is incredible. Thank you so much.
Thanks for joining us today, Bridget. So glad you’re here!
xoxo-Kaitlin
Working as a camp counselor this summer, I’ve heard many personal testimonies about family situations, but have seen how God has worked through those moments to reveal himself. The children rejoice in knowing God was there and many have accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior. Being a camp counselor, I rejoiced knowing their situations were resolved. However, two days ago I received a phone call indicating my grandpa was in the ER. I quickly drove home to discover he had been diagnosed with sever pulmonary fibrosis and a life expectancy of only two additional years. For me, this brought me into the mourning stage. He has made such a large impact on my life, as he serves as my neighbor and is constantly in my presence. I’m scared, because I know life is going to be different without him. However, when I opened this app, I knew God was already showing His never-ending love and comfort. I can’t wait to see how God uses this devotion to reveal His glory, power, and love throughout this stage of life.
You are in my prayers this morning and your experiences touch my heart and remind me how great our God is that you are faithful in spite of your pain. I love this series as in the last few years I have discovered that in my pain and sorrow I have grown to trust God’s plan. I lean more on Him and find my relationship is much closer. When I visit both my aunt and mother, who have Alzheimer’s, there are times I feel angry and sad, but also times of fun and joy. Sometimes it is almost unbearable the pain I see in the world …..but for God.
Your study is truly God’s perfect timing in my life. My son and his wife of 3 months are pregnant with our first grandchild, a girl. Unfortunately they have cut us and our entire family out of their lives. They don’t have the Lord in their lives and have lost all of their friends. I have been praying for the past year that they would come to know the Lord – I know that there is a spiritual battle being fought for them and the collateral damage is being felt here in our world. There are times I can make it OK and then days when I can barely function. My husband and I are grieving the loss of our son who happens to still be alive. Life is so short and we are grateful we still have a chance to have him back in our lives. We are in Christian counseling, praying, seeking the Lord in this, asking Him to guide us and help us. I was feeling very hopeless this morning and as I sat down reading my devotions (some of which are online), your notification popped up about this new series. It was definitely a word from God – (I have been specifically praying for His word to help us). As I read today’s devotion, I’m comforted by His word and just knowing that He is truly with us – fighting this battle, I have the strength to face another day. I can’t thank SRT enough for this study and for this platform to spread God’s word to a world that is in desperate need of Him.
Keeping you and your family in prayers
Such a poignant and apt subject matter for my family at the moment, my father has been ill for a while and we’re waiting on tests at the moment, so swinging between hope that his illness can be treated, and the great pain of the dreadful what ifs, taking each day as it comes, and trusting that what ever the outcomes it’s all part of God’s plan. Prayers to all of you and hope that the pains you’ve experienced subsides and that joy finds you. Much love X
I didn’t even know about this study till I got a notification this morning that it was now available. I knew I needed to join.
We are going on nearly 4 years of infertility and the grief hits every month, and it’s been nearly impossible for me to find joy this last half year.
I needed the reminder that joy is as important as mourning and I need to take time to find joy in my life.
Blessings to all you ladies in this season of joy and mourning.
Sending all the prayers and love in the world your way, Genevieve. After one early miscarriage and losing my baby girl at almost 19 weeks pregnant, I’m all too familiar with the pain and ache of simply wanting to be a mama. I’m here to dance and mourn and cry out to God, right here beside you. xo.
Oh, my heart.
I’m supposed to be 30 weeks pregnant today. But like you, my daughter died while still in my womb, before she ever had a chance to live.
Today is hard. I dreamt about her last night. I vividly remember looking down at my pregnant belly in my dream, and being at peace. But when I awoke, I had to face the reality that plagues my mind every single day – she’s gone.
Some days are easier than others. But this morning I cried, I screamed at God, I yelled at my husband. And then I stumbled upon this. Oh, how I needed to hear it. That someone else shares my pain, that there is still joy in the darkest of times, that I can still dance even in the midst of my mourning. xo
<3 I was supposed to be 32 weeks pregnant today with a baby girl gone too soon. You aren't alone… we are here and can dance together.
My heart so aches for your loss, Jessica. As much as I wish neither of us had to bear this burden, I’m grateful for women like you who share this heartache and as you said, can dance and mourn alongside me. ❤️
Jessica and Alyssa, you are brave to share your pain – thank you. It helps so much to know we are not alone – and to mourn *and* dance with each other. Grateful for your mama hearts, and praying for you now. xo-R
In my own journey with grief since my mom passed away 2 years ago today, I have come to learn that grief and joy are not at odds with each other. The beauty of this world, of common grace, of the gospel- is that joy and grief are intertwined. As we grieve our hearts expand in capacity to experience both simultaneously. You articulate this balance so well. Thank you for sharing your story. Cheers to mourning and celebrating and planting new things and grieving and to hope.
Beautiful devotional today, thank-you for sharing.
Thank you for sharing this. . Each heart knows is own bitterness. Thank you Jesus for knowing all. They are very much intertwined. Amazed at how the Lord uses them to expand, and contract. . It seems to me. .The less focused we are on the Lord, the wider and more varied are the movements. Thanks for sharing today. Much to be thinking of. Love to all you my sisters!
This is beautifully written, and words, I believe, we all need to hear right now. It is so easy to live in fear in our broken world. These words are a reminder that because of Christ we do not have to fear, but rather we should mourn and seek Him in the brokenness. Personally, the Lord is doing things in my life right now that I only dreamed and prayed for a few years ago. He is answering my prayers and bringing me in and out of seasons so quickly. And it is all so good. It is all worth celebrating and dancing. But the broken world continues around me. Satan is attacking. Let’s not forget who’s in control! I’m looking forward to learning how to navigate mourning AND dancing in my walk with the Lord. Thank you again for this post.
I am so thankful for this study. My mother left earth for heaven last April . She had a very rate and aggressive lymphoma that hit us blindside. The night before her funeral, my son and his wife shared the news they were expecting their first child, my first grandchild. They found out they were expecting the day my mother died. Wow, talk about a time for life and a time for death. It really sunk in that night. I am still processing my mother’s death as I walk the the grieving transition stages. I am hopeful for the days of dancing as I cling to the promises of God. I am so excited and ever so grateful for the new life God is knitting together .
I read this with a heavy heart. I lost my dad back in April to suicide. I can cling to words like “Because of Christ, life comes from death. Because of Christ, we will dance again.” I have been looking forward to this study, hoping that the words and wisdom from it will help me find a way to rejoice in a time of pain.
Kourtlyn, I’m so sorry. Thank you for sharing your ache with us. Praying for you now that the Lord will draw you to Himself with reminders of His promises these next two weeks. Grace and peace, friend. xo-R
Lifting you in prayer right now Kourtlyn.
I live in Baton Rouge where our city saw 3 police officers murdered in an ambush yesterday. This devotional could not have been more perfect and uplifting for today. Thank you.
This incident and all the others in the world right now are all I can think about during my reading and quiet time today. My heart hurts for this world right now. So much mourning going on. But there is hope and that is Jesus. And I am so thankful this study came at the time it did. I will be praying for you and your town during this difficult time!!
I had my first major loss in life when I was just 14 years old. My 12 year old brother died in a freak accident. I remember in those first days of mourning laughing with some friends. I also remember feeling extremely guilty afterwards because my parents weren’t laughing over anything.
I’ve since learned through other losses that God gave us our emotions and that it’s okay to express them.
There may be pain in the night but joy comes in the morning.
Kim, thank you so much for sharing your ache with us. I’m so sorry for the loss of your sweet brother. Thankful for the reminder of joy in the morning. Grateful for you.
xoxo-Kaitlin
These words were so beautifully written. It is so true that mourning and dancing do not take turns… they happen at the same time and so much tension develops. I recently was a bridesmaid in a friend’s wedding that was full of celebration and a lot of dancing. I was so incredibly happy for her and I still am. However, I was also mourning over a 3 year relationship that had ended. I had all intentions that we would be married. So much tension developed in that I didn’t know how to mourn while I was dancing. It didn’t feel right. But here God showed by that both feelings are right and that eventually everything will turn to celebration and dancing!
I lived in Paris during the terrorist attacks last October, and my husband and I experienced a very similar situation– we were heartbroken, the city and world were mourning, but the following morning we saw a beautiful wedding with a couple smiling, guests throwing confetti, and music being played on the church steps. Life was still going on, just as God intended. We passed people crying, but also children laughing and playing, celebrating the gift of life.
Wow, Jeanne – such a powerful image and moment!
I lost a pregnancy almost 6 years ago and having a 6 month at home I never took/had the time to mourn then. I’m so emotionally distraught over our world right now I hope this study allows me to mourn and heal and rejoice in the good of the world again. My heart is so heavy lately.
This was so good. Thanks for this – there is a time to mourn and a time to dance. As I was supposed to be in my friends wedding, but never made it because my nephew also passed away the exact hour of her wedding this really hits home for me. Mourning with my family, but rejoicing with my friend.
http://www.in-due-time.com
As all manner of people with all manner of reasons to be angry descend on my precious city this week, my heart is aching for peace and true freedom and just begging God that it goes smoothly. I hadn’t considered it mourning, but as I read through, I realized that what I’m feeling about this week (the convention) and the hostilities people are bringing into it truly is grief. So good to call out to God, to declare that I won’t trust in a political system but in the most high God. What a fitting study to start this week. Praying for our city and nation today. If you have a minute, join me.
Praying for peace to be restored and for love for each other to prevail again in this great country of ours. I pray for comfort for everyone in Dallas and in Baton Rouge and in our world who has lost loved ones to the senseless and seemingly unending hate and pain we as a nation have been experiencing. There are no answers for such sadness and loss other than Satan is working in the hearts of many. The joy we do have as followers and believers is that JOY DOES COME IN THE MORNING…that because we have Christ, though we do not understand such pain and evil in this world…Jesus does and did when he died for us. HE ALONE CAN HEAL OUR HEARTS…even the pain of searing loss.
I pray for comfort for all those directly affected and for all of us…because when one of us hurts in this country…all of us hurt. May our God strengthen us through this and may we all experience JOY in the midst of such pain and loss. Praying for all.
Excited to start (and at the same time dreading) this Bible study! My dad was killed in an accident in March, and tomorrow marks the beginning of the birthday and holiday season for our family, beginning with his birthday on the 19th. So glad I’m not alone in the mourning process!
Sarah Jo, I’m so sorry for your loss. Praying God’s Word would be a comfort to you in your grief. Thank you so much for joining us for this plan.
xoxo-Kaitlin
Praying that you will feel God’s arms around you as you live through this time in your life.
I am currently walking with a friend through a season (seemingly an unending one) of great mourning, loss, and brokenness. I sat at a grave with her as she called out to God. It was beautiful and so broken. She is living in this tension. And as I see her grief and pain even while playing dress up with my girls that tension is so thick. I want to separate it somehow but there they are together. Pain and joy, loss and life. It is so heavy. I have been struggling with how to pray for her. Praying this today: “You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent.” Amen.
I have been both excited and nervous about this study. I’ve been mourning the losses of three babies, and, while my faith in the Lord has never faltered, I have struggled with joy in the midst of it. A lot. I trust in the promise of eternity, but am struggling with the here and now. Praying God uses this study to help me learn to dance with joy again!
AnnMarie, I’m so glad you’re here! Just wanted to let you know you’re absolutely not alone in being both nervous and excited—I think we all are, in one way or another. Praying God’s Word would be a comfort to you in your loss and grief. Hugs to you.
xoxo-Kaitlin
Thank you.
I miss my Dad
Jess, I’m so sorry for your loss. Aching and hoping with you, friend. Asking God to hold you close in your grief and for His presence to be near as you miss and remember your dad.
xoxo-Kaitlin
Oh my, this brought tears to my eyes today! Thank you for the words that express such beauty and sorrow!
It is so important to remember “it is right to mourn.” Too often I feel that Christians minimize mourning, leading those who are suffering to feel guilty for their grief when it’s a natural response to loss
That really resonated with me too, the idea that it’s not selfish or wrong to mourn
So true. Romans 12:15 says “rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn”. Our society often times views mourning as weakness, when it’s a human, God given emotion.
This is so comforting to me. As I am nearing my wedding day excitement continues to build. Final details are being planned, parties are being booked. Part of me lives in this world and forgets everything going on around me. It’s easier that way. And then another part of me feels guilty planning a wedding, being happy, celebrating while around the world great tragedies are happening. There a balance that needs to happen and I’m having trouble finding it. But there is a time for everything isn’t there? Thank you for these words. They have comforted me this morning and given me hope that I can find that balance!
http://www.littlelightonahill.com
I know exactly how you feel. I am also planning my wedding and I feel like I’m so wrapped up in details like dresses and flowers while the rest of the world is dealing with much more important issues. I also keep dealing with the issue that my mama has passed away and not here to plan with me. I feel so guilty for letting myself mourn her in the midst of my wedding when I know this is supposed to be about my fiancé and myself. Sometimes it is so hard to balance life with mourning and happiness.
Oh, Linsey! I’m SO sorry that your mom isn’t here with you. You should absolutely not feel guilty for mourning her while planning. I think that’s a pretty good time to think of her and miss her. Praying that you find the balance of rejoicing and mourning.
I can understand your conflicting feelings. The 9/11 attacks occurred three months before my wedding. It was hard at that time to be joyful. I often felt guilty for continuing to plan, sometimes wondering if my actions were futile, not knowing if our freedom was coming to an end. We were in pain as a nation. I remember feeling my future had been robbed of me. My hope for a happy marriage and children in a world worth bringing them into. What I learned was that my joy rose out of the ashes. We mourned for the losses of our people as well as the loss of our feelings of security. But, our joy, our continuation of life, was God’s victory over evil. I think it made God pleased as we put our faith in Him and continued on. My daughter, now 12, is a light in this world that wouldn’t be here today had we only mourned. We chose to remember that God has this handled. My prayer is that we ALL give God something to dance for. That we rise above the ashes and cultivate joy through our actions, may they be in marriage and the start of families, or in the understanding of one another because of our commonalities as well as our differences. Your marriage will be a light and bring Him the glory he seeks. Prayers for your future!
Shannon Martin wrote a gripping post last week which shares a letter from her black friend to white Christian women. It’s an important perspective. We don’t have to agree, but we are called to talk less and listen more.
http://www.shannanmartinwrites.com/2016/07/dear-white-christian-women.html
“We must never stop mourning brokenness. It is right to mourn. And we must never cease to celebrate life and beauty. It is right to dance.”
I love this, the permission (not that we need it) to mourn the hard times and rejoice in the good. I am an emotional avoider – I have learned to stuff emotions down until they’re “convenient” for me to have, which has resulted in becoming numb to a lot of things instead of feeling deeply. I was just talking with my counselor about this last week, and he said that the less sorrow we allow ourselves to feel, the less joy we have the capacity to feel. Once we open up to those areas of deep pain, we can also experience the deep deep love of the Father and rejoice in it. We need to mourn the brokenness just as much as we need to rejoice and dance.
My husband and I have lost two babies in the last year. I was waiting for this study to come out, thinking that it would be really healing to me in the pain from our losses. A week ago we found out that we’re expecting again, and then on Saturday night, while we were at a wedding, my doctor called to say this baby’s numbers aren’t rising the way they should and we may be facing another miscarriage or another ectopic pregnancy. Already I feel like this study could have been poured from my own heart. I’ve lived the last year and a half waiting for babies, rejoicing in their lives, and mourning their losses. I carried my first well into the second trimester and his loss was so unexpected. Thank you for this study, I pray that God uses it to heal the wounds of this life and make us less afraid of the tension between joy and sorrow.
I’m so sorry to read this. The pain of loss of a baby is so heartbreaking. Many prayers for a miracle, and that the doctors would do what they need to or at least investigate why it keeps happening- so that you can carry a baby to term. I also lost our first daughter at 18 weeks and it was just so devastating. I often think of the intertwining of mourning and dancing when I hold my second daughter (who is now 3). Please know that I am praying for you. Also, there is a great online community called Hope Mommies Community on Facebook if you are interested in joining. It’s a great biblically based ministry. https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopemommies/
Laura – I am crying with you sweet friend. We lost a baby last fall and just found out we are expecting again and I cling everyday to the hope that only comes from the Lord. I’m praying for you today. Praying His strength will be your Strength. And I am praying for a sweet baby for you and your husband. Mourning alongside you this morning.
Laura, my heart breaks for you and your husband. I’ve experienced the heartbreak of miscarriage- we lost one 2 years ago early on and I still grieve her loss. I will be praying for you dear sister in Christ! We decided to pursue fertility treatment after 3 years of trying and in April we welcomed 2 beautiful twin boys into our lives. God knew exactly what He had planned for us while I wavered between doubting and trusting Him… Cling to the truth given here that the Lord has already overcome the world.. Your world with all its anger, bitterness and hurt. Let yourself cry and mourn.. There really is beauty and life in the midst of pain. You are loved!
Praying for you today and sharing your grief – I have known so many who have lost little ones. Rejoicing in the hope that we will all play together someday! <3
Oh Laura, I am so sorry. I know well the dance of living while mourning, of the dichotomy of experiencing both joy and sorrow simultaneously. I too have last three precious babies in the last year… one to ectopic pregnancy and two through miscarriage. Grief after grief is so much to carry. I pray you find rest and peace and comfort in Him.
I pray for you sincerely, this is a path of mourning I too have walked. I know the deep hurt.
Oh Laura, I am so sorry. Thank you for bravely sharing with us. Praying that God uses His written promises to draw you closer to Himself. Love to you, friend.
xoxo-Kaitlin
I’ve been waiting for this study, and to be honest, Raechel, I was hoping you would be the first to write. My heart breaks open knowing the mourning you have experienced over the loss of your precious baby girl… I too have experienced and am still experiencing that mourning, having just lost my seventh precious baby in February. I walk life through a strange dichotomy of mourning and joy.. “wondering when to celebrate and when to cry”. I’ve been aching for a study that will just break open my heart and allow me to explore, Biblically, these feelings and emotions that I face every single day.
That may have not been clear… my seventh loss… I hold tight to the one living child the Lord has miraculously blessed me with.
Jessica I’m praying for you. I cannot imagine what you have experienced and you are still here worshipping God. God bless you and your family. You are tremendous. x
At a time of mourning the loss of a relationship and the fading of hope for the future I much long for, this was a beautiful reminder I needed this morning. Weeping may endure for the night but joy truly does come in the morning. That night may be a long night, but He is faithful and morning will come. Thank you for your vulnerability in sharing your heart.
He numbers our days. I live in Baton Rouge & these truths could not be sweeter this morning. All of the tension & pain that our city has endured on all sides over the past 13 days have been so difficult to swallow. There has been death, & there has been life. I pray & beg that we as the Church can speak LIFE & LIGHT into every single person we come in contact with. We have His Light & have the opportunity to be the “aroma of life” to all around us. I pray for each family who has lost someone in our city over the last 13 days – Alton Sterling’s family, the 3 officers who were killed yesterday, the shooter who took their lives. We cannot ignore the hurt that has happened. But we can bring Truth & grace & joy & hope into all of these grieving situations. Thank you for following His leading & the Spirit in what studies to do. I believe this is all done in His timing.
Thank you for sharing! Praying with you for all those affected. Come Lord Jesus!
THANK YOU for recognizing not only the police officers, but also the lives of the shooters and Alton Sterling. It’s refreshing to see that. Much love and prayers have been on my heart for your city and our nation
So you are sympathizing with the shooters??
As a nation, and as a people, we are in need of You, Lord. Guide us as we live the days you have for us, make us, as believers, shining lights of respect, obedience, honor toward those who serve us. I believe we as Christians need to set a higher bar: ALL lives matter! Let’s call our police officers just that, not “cops”. We dishonor them when we make them our target and then call them in need-as we grieve and rejoice, may it be TOGETHER! “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me”.
While it is true that all lives matter to God, this response minimizes the pain crying out in the words “black lives matter.” If you were a doctor and a patient came to you saying, “My foot is broken,” you wouldn’t respond by saying, “What about your hands? All body parts are important.” It’s a time to mourn with those who mourn, and listen to the cries of our black brothers and sisters. (And, of course, for our law enforcement as well!)
Absolutely. Black lives matter for christians is about recognizing that racism still exists as sin in this world and we must allow those who have been persecuted to speak about injustice.
Well said. It’s not the elevation Olympics. Real people are dying. We’re saying that we matter too because systems are in place that keep trying to degrade us and reduce us. It’s amazing how many people still don’t want to understand. Especially Christians.
Amen!
I was going to pass this study up as the title seemed a bit depressing to me and I hate the emotions that well up when things are uncovered that we are struggling with in life. It hit me hard this morning that I am currently walking through a time of mourning with one of my children’s marriages dissolving and a grandchild involved and as much as I hate being in the middle of this very difficult season I know there is hope even if things seem hopeless right now. Mourning is something to me that is full of sadness over a death. It doesn’t always have to be a physical death it can be a spiritual death too or a death to your expectations of life and how you think your life or your family’s lives need to look like. It’s hard to let go of the ideals in our lives. And as Christians I think we all secretly hope to escape the hard stuff. Because let’s face it, who wants to walk down those roads. So as I began to read the Word in this study this morning I began to realize that yes there is a deep sadness covering my heart right now and I realized that God is there and He is comforting and has been comforting. I don’t have to pretend things are ok. It’s okay to feel the hurt and even express it. All stuff I know already but confirmation in His Word can really bring a soothing to a hurting heart.
A verse the Lord gave me at the very beginning of this trial moths ago was,
“Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 NKJV
My verses this morning as He continues to walk me through, “You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.”
Psalms 30:11-12
And finally….this “I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.”
Psalms 27:13 NKJV
I do believe!
Gina, I’m so thankful you are joining us for this reading plan. Hard as it may be, I’m asking God to be with you as you grieve and hope through the next few days. Thank you so much for your needed encouragement this morning.
xoxo-Kaitlin
Thanks Kaitlin ❤️
Sonya, many are praying for your families. So thankful for your service, still praying for His truth to once again permeate our society with His love and truth.
Oh wow. This is powerful, beautiful, and insightful. It breaks my heart and gives me hope. Well done, good and faithful servant, for sharing this with us.
I think this reading is so proper to the times we are living now. There is a time for war and a time for peace. How great is it to know that no matter what is going on in our lives or in the world God has overcame it all and God will eventually restore all things he will eventually restore us. He will bring us peace and joy. Thank you God for being our comforter and our protector. God bless you all sisters.
Good morning. I was invited by a dear friend of mind to follow this study with her. I lost my mother, father and brother within 2 yrs of each other so I believe she felt that this would be a good study for me. However it actually made my heart heavy this morning; the story was great and fruitful it was the comments that disturbed me and brought me back to reality of what my people are suffering through. To see comments about the falling police officers as if the innocent black men that were and are being killed are a non factor hurt my heart! I am totally against anyone being gunned down. My husband made a very great statement this morning; we as a people are supposed to call the cops the ones that are supposed to protect us from the criminals but now we(blacks) are not just afraid of the criminals were afraid of the cops. We don’t know from one day to the next if our sons/husbands will make it back home when they go out the door. Just as all cops aren’t bad cops all black people are not criminals and if you as a cop come across one arrest them and take them to jail don’t get fearful and kill them. I’m sorry but I can’t do this study because it broke my spirits down reading those comment as if my people don’t need to be mourned. I pray that the lord Jesus Christ will show up and clean up all this mess; however we know that’s not the case because this is the end times and if we don’t all all all people see each other with agape love we won’t see Jesus either.
Dear Janele, please don’t let the comments of a few deter you from participating in this study. Just as others are adding what has grieved them, so you can/are doing as well. God is sovereign and as hard as that is to understand, it is truth. Praying for you and for all the fallen and their families this morning.
See here’s the problem…my people. If you want agapa love, there is no my people. We’re all the same, period.
I think it’s important to hear Janele’s heart. She’s sharing real experiences and real fear. I hope she will find a community that can love her as she shares.
Thank you Sarah, for pointing that out. We should seek to listen and hear the pain in Janele’s statement!
Janele, I’m so sorry your heart is burdened! And all of us, as your sisters in Christ are burdened with you. My prayer is that you will continue to join us and find this a safe place to sit with the Father, His Word and sisters as we listen to what His heart has to say to us and as we speak our hearts to each other. Our Father is Creator God. All life is precious to Him. “Red and yellow, black and white, we are precious in His sight”. All of us are precious in His sight and we are all mourning and frightened. Father, rain down Your healing, Your peace, Your love and let it begin right here.
Oh friend, don’t give up on community yet! Share your perspective and your heart. Mine grieves for every life lost recently: police, civilian, American, overseas… Our world really is such a broken place and we need the love of Christ to permeate every inch of it! Praying for you today.
Jangle, our hearts mourn the deaths of innocent men and the fear that black men, boys, and their moms have to endure each day they walk out the door. Our world is terribly broken and we are completely incapable of fixing it without Jesus. Thank you for your honesty. I’m sorry for your hurt and I mourn with you. I pray that Jesus would work a miracle and bring glory to himself buy showing us all what his love, worked out through us, can do.
Janele, excuse me
I am so sorry for your losses. The loss of life, civilians and law enforcement alike, breaks my heart. The two black men were shot recently were sons, friends and loved ones who are still being mourned, and they were made in the image of Christ.
The fear you feel is real and cannot be swept under the rug. People should not have fear walking out of their door in our nation that is not an official warzone; we don’t live in Syria or Iraq. I am saying a prayer that you will return to She Reads Truth since the shooting yesterday is likely the freshest on posters’ minds. I think we often tend to focus on the latest news, which means we can unintentionally forget about those stories that rocked the world only days before. I am sorry you felt that those comments negated the other lives that are being lost.
I agree with your prayers for Jesus to come and clean up this mess. Come, Lord Jesus, and bring peace, unity, reconciliation and above all love. Love for all people, agape love that causes us to love as You love. Show us the way to live by faith in You in these crazy times. May Your Church do better at loving each other. We need You, Jesus, to guide us and forgive us when we mess it up in our attempts.
Thank you so much for sharing your heart. There is so much hurt & grief in our world right now. I am so sorry for the fear & hurt in your heart & I thank you for being tender to that! I pray that the Lord continues to draw you near to Him in any way that brings you peace & comfort. I live in Baton Rouge & we are seeing the repercussions of racial tensions right now. I pray for peace & hope to bring us (ALL) together & for recent events not to push us further away. We ALL need Jesus & I thank you for calling us to that.
Janele- for the sake of my black husband and my beautiful black sons, I implore you to stay and keep talking. For if we all just give up on those who say hurtful things without knowing the impact it has, then what hope do we have? Don’t give up on community. Our next generation needs us to keep talking. Keep sharing our hearts and the fear that we live in. (full disclosure- I am a white woman and therefore, I recognize my privilege in even asking you to stay in the conversation).
Dear sweet Janele, I’m so sorry you were offended by some of the comments shared here. As a longtime member of the SRT community, I’ve found it to be a beautiful family of ladies who truly seek Jesus amid the messiness of this life. All lives matter to God. Unlike we broken humans, He does not categorize or apply labels. He mourns ALL loss of life. In Christ Jesus we are all children of God through faith. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for all are one in Christ Jesus (Gal 3:26-28). I grieve with you for the loss of your family members. And I pray with you for healing and wholeness within our broken society. While we await His final victory, we are His ambassadors (2 Cor 5:20). Keep shining your light before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven (Mat 5:16). And remember that even the evil darkness we see all around us is not dark to our capable, loving, all-powerful God (Psa 139:12). Thank you for sharing. Blessings and hugs to you!
Janele I stand with you and all who mourn. Every single family who didn’t see a loved one return home. Every family who is afraid for their black sons and husbands, I stand in solidarity. I hear you.
Dear Janelle, we speak here, I have seen, from our own experiences, diverse as they are. We don’t anyways agree. I don’t think anyone desires to exclude. Hearts are burdened for the suffering of all as we pray and search our own hearts for solutions. I so seek for better understanding and empathy. My experience is not the same as yours. Yours is not the same as mine. But please, let’s talk, we sisters in Christ. We already have a bond of peace in Him. Let’s build on that. I extend my hand in fellowship to you.
Janele I hear you completely. Sometimes I find myself filled with momentary disbelief and contempt at the silence within Christendom that surrounds the daily deaths of people who have the same colour as me. I sometimes have wondered if anyone would ever say something here. I constantly have to ask God to not let my emotions get the better of me. You have done what I could not and that is you have expressed the very tangible gaps in empathy that there sometimes seems to be when it comes to black death amongst Christians.
I accuse no-one here. But please, remember everyone. Remember the police that were murdered, remember the many black people that have been unlawfully killed, remember the Iraqis who were blown up during Eid, remember the people in France, the people in Turkey, the people all over the world who suffer death and loss on a daily basis. We should not be silent on these things, we ought to take the forefront and not lose our concept of justice. I am with you sister and if you need to take a break you take it. I got you. It can all be so overwhelming at times. Thank God for Jesus and that he doesn’t have favourites. Thank Him for His grace indeed. And let’s not give up on a better future. End times have been predicted since Jesus died….the world is still here. We can still make a difference. We must pray, act and not lose hope. We all have to be on the frontline when it comes to holding onto hope. So others may experience the grace and peace of God is the worst crises and know that his power is real. It’s not over till it’s over.
amen and amen. well said
Thanks for saying these words friend. You are not alone in feeling a lagging absence when mourning goes one way and not the other. Take hope and know that there are others who are remembering the lives lost among LEO AND our Black community. I am not Black, but I served in the military for 10 years and had the privilege of working shoulder to shoulder in a truly diverse workplace, I have heard and seen so much of the inequality that persists and it is so hard to watch and feel so inadequate to deal with the big gaps. But I feel tiny sprouts of hope with each white friend that has been exposed to the reality of what our black neighbors, schoolmates, friends are going through, and taking up the protest about the inequality.
Sorry for all that you and yours have to deal with, sorry for the burden you carry! Love and peace from this little spot in the world.
Janele, I’m sorry to hear how you are feeling, but I have to say that I felt the same way. I don’t want to tell you how to feel if you are reading this, but for me this study was important especially because of all the killing of black men and women has made it difficult to balance mourning and dancing for many black people like us who have to live hearing people that people who look like us are killed for no reason. Regardless of what others are saying, God has a message to speak to you. I can understand though if after reading the word you would not want to read the comments.
The Lord’s been showing me this through a season of depression, pregnancy, and sweet provision. Mourning and dancing walk hand in hand, and we fight the good fight by clinging to Him in all of it. So thankful for these verses to help me hold fast to Jesus in this time!
Love that, Megan – clinging to Him in all of it!
I have found that it is imperative to take things one day at a time; one step at a time. In some moments in grieving my losses and in others I’m happy-go-lucky about my gains. Rather than battling the conflict, I try to feel every emotion deeply and take it one moment at a time. I have been very excited about this study, as I feel it is the perfect timing in my life.
I often find it difficult to allow myself to feel both joy and sadness at the same time but when I do, I find it brings healing.
“Because of Christ, life comes from death. Because of Christ, we will dance again.”
Such beauty in this entire post. Thank you for sharing.
How very much we need–I need this study as I watch broken hearted the news of still more officers gunned down in the streets of this crazy world. I have felt much personal lost but this collective loss is somehow different. Maybe because it feels as if the whole world has gone crazy. May we use this study to remember and deeply know God is still in control.
Absolutely and heart felt beautifully written…
Walking alongside you dear friend…and reaching out a hand in love and prayers….xx
This is beautiful. I agree that mourning and dancing don’t always take turns but they are often intertwined.
I like how Ecclesiastes 3:11 sums it up: “He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.” It’s natural to mourn at some of the circumstances we face or see around us, but at the same time we know there is hope because of the bigger picture- that God has defeated death and that he has a plan to make all things new.
Even in the midst of our trials and sorrows, we can find hope in knowing that Jesus has overcome. That is such an encouraging message to hold on to.
Beautifully written.
Up until my Dad’s illness and passing two years ago, I didn’t know death or understand very much about Jesus’ victory on the cross. Losing my Dad made me need my Savior in a way I never had before. In the process, Jesus planted trust, hope and faith in my heart. I felt He encouraged me to stop relying on my own strength and asked me to let Him hold me up. I agree about the tension- there can simultaneously be heartbreak, loss, hope, redemption and cause for celebration.
How timely this study is! I am now reading the book,
The Cry of the Soul by Dr. Dan B. Allender. The theme of the book is about our God given emotions and how the negative ones of anger, jealousy, anxiety and depression give us insight into how feeling our emotions leads us to worship. I am paying attention to this study as well as the Psalms as I learn how to feel my negative feelings which lead to a better understanding of God’s character and my need for the grace offered through Jesus Christ. May the Lord continue sanctifying me into the image of my Savior!
I have been waiting with a heavy heart to the words and scriptures for this study. I have ordered books for a couple of friends. We are Law Enforcement wives and are aching for our country to turn its heart to the Lord… We are in mourning… And we know joy is coming. We will be gathering together to pray and use this study to be a light in the darkness!
For the words
Praying for everyone in this tough situation.
Sonya, I cannot imagine being in your situation seeing your husband leave for work and being afraid for his life. We are praying for and mourning with you and begging the Lord to protect all Law Enforcement officers.
Praying with a broken heart with you.
Yes. LEO wife here too. Our hearts are just so broken.
My husband is a retired Trooper and police chief, and all of our marriage he has been in law enforcement. While I rejoice that he is not “working the road, I grieve as I know the mourning that has befallen members of our great big family in law enforcement. Prayers abound for the families who continue to serve in an active duty role and most importantly the families in Dallas and Baton Rouge who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Yes-praying & so very thankful for you all!!
Prayers.
Your husband is a TRUE hero! I pray that God will protect him and keep him safe