Handling Loss and Grief

Living Free Every Day

Today's Scripture
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT

Thoughts for Today
Emotional divorce starts when a couple begins withholding affection from each other. Communication becomes negative or nonexistent. Life seeps out of the marriage.

If you are struggling in this kind of a marriage relationship, you may see no way out except divorce. But don't give up—and don't try to figure things out on your own. Trust God to show you the way. Don't focus on how you want your spouse to change—ask God what you can do. How can you open the doors of communication?

Although it can help to talk to someone, use wisdom in discussing your problems with friends and family. Well-meaning people can create more confusion in your mind with negative comments and advice—and taking sides. If possible, talk to your pastor or to a Christian counselor. If your spouse will go with you, all the better.

If physical abuse is present, do not hesitate to take steps to get yourself and your children to a safe place.

Consider this
Always remember that God loves you, your spouse, and your children. He wants what is best for everyone—and only He knows what is best. In The Amplified Bible, today's scripture says this:

Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.

Don't rely on your own insight or understanding. Open your heart to God's direction. Lean on, trust in, and be confident in Him. Seek His plan through the Bible, through prayer, and through mature Christian counseling. And then follow His plan, step-by-step. He loves you and He knows the way.

Prayer
Father, I don't know what to do. My marriage is falling apart. My spouse and I shout at each other or don't speak at all. It seems no love remains. I don't know the answer—but I believe you do. I believe that you want us to stay together. Show me what I should do, and give me the strength to do it. In Jesus' name

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These thoughts were drawn from

Handling Loss and Grief: How to Face Losses in Life and Grieve Christianly by Raymond T. Brock, Ed.D. This study teaches participants what the Bible has to say about handling the losses of life. It offers biblical coping methods for facing loss.

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