Ask a Pastor Column

Presenting Biblical answers to tough questions

Q:  I recently lost someone close to me. Where can I find words of comfort in the Bible? 

A:  It may not be easy for me to offer a satisfying answer to this question since grief can affect all of us in different ways. The best I can do is offer general guidelines and resources for grief, then list specific passages for various situations. I hope it helps.

One very beneficial source of comfort to us in times of grief is our relationships with others. Friends, family, a pastor, or a wise fellow believer can provide support and encouragement. The Bible shares with us the power of these relationships, commanding us to both give and receive that support and encouragement as needed (Galatians 6:2; 1 Peter 5:1-2). It doesn’t have to be awkward and you can call them even if you haven’t talked for a while. Let the conversation begin normally then share what’s going on when it feels right. Even if you decide not to share your struggles it can still be nice to catch up with them.

Closely related to this is the resource of prayer. People will sometimes let us down, miss the hint, or not have time; God always listens. He is always there and you are free to “(cast) all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you,” (1 Peter 5:7). The Psalms and other passages are full of people bringing all kinds of ugly or difficult emotions (even accusations!) to God in prayer. None of them get struck by lightning and all of them find what they need to keep moving forward, even if it’s just for one more day.

Bible passages that specifically address the loss of loved ones (either through teaching or examples) include the account of the raising of Lazarus (helpful if we don’t understand why someone had to die or have questions for God, John 11:1-44), the promise of the resurrection of the dead in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:35-58, and of course the passages that reveal God’s nature as a shepherd are very comforting as well (Psalm 23; John 10:14-15, 27-30).

If you have a question that you would like a Biblical answer to you can send it via email to [email protected] or by mail to Formoso Church; P.O. Box 66; Formoso, Kan. 66942