Pastor Josh Walters answers the question "what does the Bible say about grief" by sharing some Bible verses about grief, and sharing his own personal journey through grief.

For more resources to help with your grief, including a free workbook, reading plans, other helpful videos, books, stories, and support group options, visit https://www.seacoast.org/grief/.

00:00: What it's like dealing with unexpected grief.
04:29: Exploring the theme of grief in the TV show, "This Is Us" and it's relevance to our lives.
08:27: Other circumstances besides death that can bring on feelings of grief.
12:35: The stages of grief.
17:14: Biblical examples of grieving.
21:30: Why it's important to allow yourself to grieve.
26:01: Why you shouldn't isolate yourself while you're grieving.
35:04: The importance of faith in times of grief and sorrow.


This Is Us - Part 3: A Guide for Grief - Josh Walters

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. John 16:33 (NLT)

5 STAGES OF GRIEF

• Shock/Disbelief – Individual believes the news is somehow mistaken and they cling to a false, more preferable reality.
• Anger – Individual acknowledges that denial can’t go on forever. The become frustrated, especially towards those closest to them.
• Bargaining/Guilt – The normal reaction to feelings of helplessness and vulnerability is often a need to regain control through a series of ‘If only’ statements. If only we had _________. Guilt often accompanies bargaining because we believe there is something we could have done.
• Depression - It is challenging for the individual to overcome their sadness. They may become silent, withdraw or refuse visitors.
• Acceptance and Hope – Individual embraces their mortality and inevitable future, or that of a loved one. This stage comes with a calm retrospective view and a stable condition of emotions.

And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (NLT)

THREE THOUGHTS THAT LEAD TO LIFE

1. I SHOULD GRIEVE

Genesis 50:3 and 10 ESV, Numbers 20:29 ESV, Deut 34:7-8 ESV, 2 Samuel 1:11-12 ESV

2. I SHOULD GRIEVE IN COMMUNITY

John 19:26-27 (NIV), Job 2:12-13 (NIV), Romans 12:15 (NIV)

3. I SHOULD GRIEVE IN COMMUNITY WITH HOPE

2 Corinthians 1:3-11 (NIV)