Ten Scriptures Dealing with Grief

Grief is not something neglected by the Bible, but Scripture has plenty to say about grieving. Christians need to know that Grief is not a sin and that God cares and wants to heal those suffering from grief and grievous situations. Grieving in a healthy way is very important, and one of the best ways to process through grief is to read Scripture and learn how God comes alongside us in the times of our grief to comfort and strengthen us.

1. Grief Over Personal Loss

Often, when we suffer personal losses, we deal with grief. The Believer should recognize that in times like these, God draws near to the brokenhearted.

Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

• This verse reminds us that God is especially close during times of sorrow and heartache.

• Applicable when grieving the death of a loved one, a broken relationship, or deep emotional pain.

  
  

2. Grief from Suffering and Trials

The Christian life is not without suffering or trials, and we can often experience grief in suffering, but God is our refuge in suffering.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Blessed be the God... who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction...”

• Paul speaks of comfort in affliction, showing that God not only brings relief but equips us to help others in their grief.

• Encourages mutual care among believers.

  
  

3. Grief Over Death and Mourning

Many times we feel guilty for grieving and mourning, but we have an example in the time of mourning of our savior weeping.

John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.”

• In the context of Lazarus' death, Jesus expresses genuine grief.

• This verse highlights Jesus’ empathy and identification with our human pain.

  
  

4. Grief and Waiting on the Lord

Hope in God during long seasons of sorrow is essential for the believer.

Psalm 42:11 – “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God...”

• The psalmist expresses inner grief but preaches hope to his own soul.

• Speaks to seasons of prolonged sadness and spiritual depression.

  
  

5. Grief from Unanswered Questions

Sometimes our grief is increased because of unanswered questions, but we can trust God in mystery.

Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.”

• When grief brings confusion or a sense of divine silence, we are called to trust rather than lean on reasoning.

• Encouragement for those wrestling with “why?”

  
  

6. Grief Over Sin and Repentance

Not all grief comes from loss; many times, we suffer grief because of our sin. May this deep grief of our unrighteousness lead us to repentance, as Godly grief leads to life.

2 Corinthians 7:10 – “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.”

• Addresses the sorrow we feel over sin, and how it should lead us to repentance and transformation.

• Not all grief is bad—godly grief leads to healing.

  
  

7. Grief in Lament and Honest Expression

Often, we miss out on the value of Lamenting, but Lament is a biblical form of worship. Even after lamenting, there is reason to hope.

Lamentations 3:22-23 – “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end...”

• Lamentations is filled with mourning, yet this passage offers hope.

• Shows that grief expressed in honesty can coexist with faith.

  
  

8. Grief with Eternal Hope

While surely we will have times of grief, we should also remember that as believers, our grief is tempered by the promise of resurrection and hope of eternal life.

1 Thessalonians 4:13 – “...that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.”

• Encourages believers that death is not the end.

• Our grief is real, but it is infused with hope through Christ’s resurrection.

  
  

9. Grief and the Promise of Future Joy

Sorrow will not last forever.

Psalm 30:5 – “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”

• Offers assurance that grief is temporary.

• God's timing brings restoration and renewed joy.

  
  

10. Grief Erased in the New Creation

Oh, what great joy we will possess when final comfort from all grief comes in eternity.

Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more...”

• The ultimate hope for believers.

• God Himself will bring an end to grief, sorrow, and pain forever.

  
  

Closing Thoughts On Grief From A Biblical View

Grief is a universal human experience, but for the Christian, it is never without purpose or hope. God walks with His people through sorrow, provides comfort, and offers the sure hope of eternal healing in Christ.