Since my last post on self-pity, I have been pondering the difference between that sinful response to suffering, and the legitimate response of grief. How do we grieve in a way that both honors God and gives full expression of our souls?
My first conclusion is that grief should not make us guilty. Jesus, though he waited until Lazarus had died before he journeyed to Bethany, wept deeply with the bereaved sisters.
Wouldn't it be nice to be able to give physical expression to our grief----like Job, who ripped he clothes, shaved his head and sat in ashes? Part of the struggle has been the feeling that suffering is personal and private----and must be hidden. Why do we feel the compulsion to act like everything is OK? Is it pride that doesn't want to admit the depth of our need and dissapointment? Is it fear of rejection----not wanting others to see our wounds and then not care? Is it self-preservation----knowing that the minute we are honest with ourselves and others, we may well break in half from the pain?
But the real question remains---whether we battle alone or with the company of fellow believers----how can we honor God with our grief?
Job 1:20-22
At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head.
Then he fell to the ground in worship and said:
"Naked I came from my mother's womb,
and naked I will depart.
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away;
may the name of the LORD be praised."
In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.
Job 2: 9-10
His wife said to him, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!"
He replied, "You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"
In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.
What a fierce faith, a determination that God is GOD and he is GOOD! How I pray that during the (small or large) trials of today, and the unknown ones God has ordained for tomorrow, that I will be KEPT in Him, that my mouth would not sin, that my heart would not charge God with wrongdoing. That His promises would be near, that His presence my daily portion, and his mighty salvation the foundation of my praises!
Throughout our seasons of grief, may the world see in us a hope, a joy, a treasure that goes beyond our circumstances---and gives God his rightful place on the throne of our hearts.
For a amazing story on grieving through the holidays---visit GirlTalk today.
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3 comments:
It's a yes, yes, and yes to your question of why we are so private.
Good but hard points!
Hmmm... good words and good posts. I have been thinking on these things this last week and particularly today. This issue of grieving and self-pity. Where is the line drawn? It seems to be between hope and despair, between BELIEVING that God is good and not, as you say. thanks for the good words. peace.
Sounds like good processing.
Sighing, sleeping, crying, being thirsty etc., are also physical ways we grieve. It's good you are giving yourself freedom to grieve and "cast your burden on the Lord, He will sustain you". (Psalm 55:22)
Have you read Homeschooling with a Meek and Quiet Spirit by Teri Maxwell? (I have it if you want to borrow it) In it she talks about Worldly sorrow vs. Godly sorrow...relates well to what you are talking about.
You are very dear! :)
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