1 Samuel 16:1
Grief knocks the wind out of you. Devastated by Saul’s failure to obey God’s instructions, (whose failure was evidence of a heart that didn’t love God and resulted in God rejecting Saul as king) Samuel spiraled into a deep period of mourning. So much so God eventually asks him, “How long will you mourn for Saul. . . ? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way…” (1 Samuel 16.1). God was calling Samuel to a hope beyond his grief.
God created us to grieve. It’s important for our emotional health. There should be a period of mourning when we experience the loss of a family member, career, or even a dream. But there will come a day when we need to say “enough,” put the Kleenex box aside, and move forward.
God doesn’t just want us to move on, but forward. God wants us to give him our broken heart in such a way that we’re drawn deeper and closer into his presence as he uses our grief for his good. Imagine the good God can bring from your grief (remember Hannah in 1 Samuel 1.1-20).
There may be something you are grieving. As you welcome God into your day, soak in the lyrics to “Oceans” by Hillsong United: “Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander, and my faith will be made stronger, in the presence of my Savior.” As you do, trust God for the hope that comes from him through your grief.
