When You Are Hurting

When we are suffering through painful emotions and experience grief caused by a loss it is natural to feel isolation, anxiety and depression.  Jesus was a man who was acquainted with grief, the Bible refers to Him as a man of sorrows.  Some of the information provided here may be of help to you.

 “Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up”
Psalm 71:20

Crisis Stage-In this stage of grief that may last from two days to two weeks your grief may be experienced in a mechanical manner.  Some of the characteristics may include anxiety,fear, appetite/sleep loss, limited concentration, confusion, denial, disturbing dreams, crying.

Crucible Stage-This stage which can continue for years may involve anger, resentment, anguish, bargaining with God, depression, sadness, loneliness, isolation and self pity.

Contentment Stage-In this stage individuals accept their loss and are ready to leave it in the past.  This is a time of healing and hope characterized by a greater compassion toward others, acceptance of others, humility, a renewed dependence on the Lord, hope for the future and contentment.

Chronic and repressed grief are unhealthy ways of dealing with loss, sorrow and disappointment.  It is healthy to accept the past, to find stability and significance and to experience new opportunities for living and sharing.  Some helpful suggestions; develop a purposeful prayer life, develop a positive perspective and a sense of peace about the past.  These verses of scripture may offer you comfort in times of grief.  Psalm 10:14, 62:5, 147:3  2 Corinthians 1:3, 4 John16:20 Job 16:10 Isaiah 43:18, 19.