MANAGING GRIEF 3

". . . that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope (I Thessalonians 4:13).

Managing grief is teamwork. I suppose it is possible for grief to be managed alone, but that is not the way of Christ. The Scripture directs Christians to, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ"(Galatians 6:2). Grief management is a shared responsibility and it is first shared by our presence. Little can be said that can ameliorate grief in its deepest and darkest moments. "If only I knew that God cared!" sobs the grieving heart. God shows his care in the Faith, and in His presence, as His people are present. "Just being there" is an essential ministry!

If words are spoken, they should be appropriate positive thoughts about the one who has died. To the one who is grieving, this is recognition that the loss is real--it shows some appreciation of the depth of loss that is being experienced. Whether the loss was a pet or a person, something good can be said about the one who was lost.

Words of faith can be used, but must be used carefully and appropriately, not to minimize the depth of loss, but as a simple reminder of the hope that is ONLY found in Jesus Christ. It is this hope that is the most effective in grief management.

Diet and exercise are important components of grief management. Poor nutritional choices and lack of exercise can maintain depression, sorrow, anger and anxiety. If you want to help another in grief, give them some good, nutritious food, or take that one on a walk, play some golf, or other moderately strenuous activity. This is a way of sharing burdens too.

Grace & Peace;
Tom