Stages of Grief
Denial or Shock – Upon hearing the news that a loved one has passed away it is normal to react in a state of shock. A feeling of unreality occurs. You may feel as if you are “going crazy” or you may cry a lot. Both of these emotions are normal processes as you grieve. Keep in mind that crying is an emotional and a physical release and therefore is a healthy outlet.
See: Joel 2:12
Anger or Resentment – Blame or resentment can be directed against doctors, nurses, God or anyone we think could have done more. Sometimes the blame is even directed at the person who died. We ask ourselves, “Why me?” We are angry with everyone, because life just isn’t fair. This reaction is to be expected. This cry of frustration should be accepted and respected by those who are helping the family cope.
See: Matthew 11: 28-30
Guilt – We are not always as kind or thoughtful as we would hope. We may feel bad about things we have said or done to hurt the person we have lost. We need to forgive ourselves and accept that we are only human.
See: Romans 15:5
Loneliness – Feelings of loneliness and fear come from losing a loved one. It is good to reach out ot other people for help and support. Know that God is always by your side. The holidays can be difficult too. There are different ways to handle the holidays. One way is to volunteer your time to others.
See: Jude 1:21
Depression – Sadness may force us to withdraw from social events for a while. Mood fluctuations and feelings of isolation are normal reactions. Encouragement and support from friends and family can be great help.
See: Psalms 31:5
Acceptance – Accepting the reality that our loved one has passed away helps us to begin to believe that we will make it through. This doesn’t mean that things will be the same as they were or that we won’t miss the person any more, but it means that things will be all right. We must try to make peace with ourself, and with God.
See: Micha 7:7
Hope – Eventually you will reach a point where the pain lessens and you can look forward to the future. Hope is a virtue and blessing that comes from the Lord. Comfort can be found by remembering that your loved one will live on in the memory of others, as well as in your own memory.
See: Jeremiah 17:7
Letter From Heaven | Footprints | Comfort for Those
Who Mourn | Stages of Grief |
A Season for
Everything | Understanding
the Difference Between Grief, Guilt, and Depression | The 23rd Psalm | He Was My Brother
Too... | Should You Go
First | Helping a Child
Cope with Death | Prayer for a
Deceased Spouse | Why God Takes
Children | God is Caring
for Your Loved Ones... | For Those Seeking
Consolation
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