Grief is always associated with trauma in some way that can be triggered at any time.
Recently I was on a call with a couple of ladies and we were discussing a senseless act of violence that just occurred. One of the ladies revealed that this event triggered her to relive a traumatic experience she had 30 years ago, due to senseless violence, in that same town. She explained how she felt the same feelings of trauma and grief she felt all those years ago. Through our conversation, she realized she had the tools of wisdom and knowledge now to navigate this difficult time.
She knows where her strength comes from: the Lord (Isaiah 41:10).
She has learned that she is not a prisoner of her trauma, the feelings of fear that accompany her experiences.
It is only through walking the valley of grief (Psalms 23:4) does she now have the tools to overcome this trauma, this grief. She is stronger, even in moments like this one, where the feelings come back like a tidal wave of emotions.
Hearing her story reminded me of my own journey with grief, which has taught me similar lessons about God’s presence and strength. From my own experience, I know that grief is a lifelong journey. As I have said before, grief is like a wave; at times it is just touching the tips of your toes, and other times the strength of the wave has you over your head about to take you under. But each time grief threatens to take me down, the Holy Spirit reminds me He will never leave me, He is strong when I am weakened (2 Corinthians 12:9), and He has made me more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37). With each occasion of remembrance, the Lord teaches me something more about His love and healed another part of the trauma. This is the wisdom and knowledge I’ve learned through the ebbs and flows of grief.
My grief and trauma journey enables me to comfort and encourage my friend, but others, like you. I do not take this privilege lightly. I truly want to walk along side you just like Paul in scripture encourages us to when he says, “…God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” (2 Corinthians 1:3b-4 NLT). Through my own valleys, God has shown me the power of His comfort, which now overflows to others. It is a privilege to walk alongside you in your grief.
If grief feels like it’s pulling you under, take heart: you are not alone. God promises to be with you in every valley, offering His strength when yours runs out. Take time today to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to remind you of His power and love. Write down a verse that speaks to you and keep it close as a reminder that you are more than a conqueror through Him.
I’ve created a free resource of scriptures that have brought me peace during my hardest moments. I pray these verses will encourage you as well. Download this free resource of encouraging scriptures to guide you through the waves of sorrow. These verses are thoughtfully ordered to remind you of God’s care, comfort, and eternal promises. DownloadEncouraging Scriptures for Grief