How do I find comfort and peace when I have lost a loved one to death?

Answer

If you have lost a loved one to death, you understand the pain it brings. Jesus empathized with the sorrow of losing someone dear to His heart. In the Gospel of John (11:1-44), we discover that Jesus experienced the loss of a loved one named Lazarus. Jesus was profoundly moved and shed tears at the passing of His friend. However, this narrative doesn’t culminate in sorrow. Jesus was aware of His ability to resurrect Lazarus from death. He declared, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” «Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: », (John 11:25). Through His resurrection, Jesus conquered death. It is consoling to know that for those who have faith, death is not the conclusion. Those who accept Jesus as their Savior will enjoy eternal life «and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. », (John 10:28). God has prepared a new dwelling where there will be no more death, sorrow, or pain (Revelation 21:1-4).

Even when we are certain that our loved one is in a better place, we still feel the ache of their absence on earth. It is acceptable to mourn the loss of your loved one. Jesus cried for the death of Lazarus, despite knowing He would revive him. God is not intimidated by our emotions or our grief.

Questions. We can pour out our burdens on Him and trust in His love to provide us reassurance and comfort «casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. », (1 Peter 5:7). We can remember the many good things about our departed loved ones and rejoice in the fact that we were able to share in their lives. We can share stories about the impact our departed loved ones have had on our lives. It might be comforting to engage in activities our departed loved ones particularly enjoyed or to spend time reminiscing about them with other close relatives and friends. We can also honor their memory by living our lives in a way that brings honor and glory to God.

It is important to remember that God is ultimately the source of our comfort «Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; », (2 Corinthians 7:6). While it is good to remember our departed loved ones and to honor their influence in our lives, the Bible is clear that we are not to pray to them or worship them in any way. Instead, we bring our prayers to God and ask Him for comfort and healing. The Bible tells us that God is the father of mercies and that He will comfort us in all our tribulations (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Rest assured that God loves you and understands how much you are hurting. Seek refuge in the shelter of the Most High where you will find sweet rest (Psalm 91:1-2).