How Does God Respond to Grieving People?
"Grief is a sacred expression of love… a sacred sorrow"-Dr. Gerald May, M.D.
In a previous blog, we looked at scriptures where God-Father, Son, and Spirit-each expressed grief in Scripture (Does God Grieve?). In the current culture, the people deemed strong are those who never show their emotions; consequently, it can be shocking to realize that the King of the Universe, full of power and called the Mighty One, feels and expresses grief. He does not stop there; instead, he responds to the grief of humans.
Hebrews 4:15-16 states that because Jesus experienced grief, he can "sympathize with our weakness" and provide mercy and grace "to help in time of need" (New King James Bible). King David notes that the Father has "compassion on his children," knowing how we are formed from dust (Psalms 103:13-14). God cannot stand back and be emotionless concerning those in grief. His heart empathizes and overflows towards those who are suffering. The Lord is close to those with broken hearts who are crushed in spirit (Psalms 34:18-19).
God's attention to those in grief raises the expression of grief in mourning to something "worthy of awe and respect"—sacred (Vocabulary.com). Instead of honoring the dismissal of sorrow or holding the emotion inside, respect is due to those who, in humility, express all the feelings grief stirs in them. God elevates the expression of grief through tears by saving each tear in a bottle and recording it (New King James Bible & New International Bible; Psalms 56:8). I wonder what those bottles look like in heaven. I wonder if angels are tasked with the collection of that precious liquid. I wonder what the records say. I wonder what it will be like to see the bottles and records in eternity. Scripture does say that tears are for this lifetime, but in eternity, there will be no more grief, and tears will be no more; grief has an end date, hallelujah (Isaiah 65:19; Revelation 21:4).
If God feels grief, responds, and honors how we feel grief, we realize there is a sacredness to grieving that we should honor. As we learn more about biblical grief, our attitudes toward our grief and the grief of others need to change to one of honor, respect, and awe. This needed change of attitude will offer ourselves and others grace for the journey of grief.
References
Wright, H. N. (2011). The complete guide to crisis and trauma counseling: What to do and say when it matters most! (updated & expanded). Bethany House.