grief during the holidays
The holidays trigger emotions in people who have suffered the loss of loved ones. Grief during the holidays can…
• Bring back memories that bring a mix of sadness and joy/laughter
• Leave behind an empty feeling —with someone missing
• Diminish one’s enjoyment of traditional family activities
You might ask, how do I get through my grief during the holidays and remain strong?
Two Ways of Dealing with Grief During the Holidays
Because of grief, I know some people who try to stay strong by isolating themselves around Christmas, for example. Others I know struggle a great deal emotionally and need people to talk to and walk alongside them.
In my visitation ministry, my wife and I drove about 20 minutes over to the house of an elderly lady to bring a card and spend time with her. She neither had any plans for Christmas nor family around. Such a visit meant a lot to this lady.
What is the best way to remain strong in the midst of grief during the holidays? What encouragement can I find in the Scriptures?
Although many verses in the Bible are generic in nature, we can draw from those passages many applications.
I want to share seven Scriptures with you that offer ways you can cope with grief, and in my view, this specifically can apply to the holidays, when it’s especially difficult.
Note how each verse portrays the personal, relational nature of God as well as His care and closeness to us...
Scripture on Dealing with Grief During the holidays
1. Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
As burdened as you may feel during the holidays, you can go to God anytime 24/7 and find refuge in God from all of those challenging emotions. Sit in His presence.
2. Hebrews 13:5
"I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."
Grief can cause feelings of loneliness. However, it’s comforting to know that God will never abandon us.
3. Isaiah 66:13
“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you…”
Through the holiday season, we can rest in the truth that God will comfort us, if we let Him.
4. 2 Corinthians 1:4
"Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."
Those who grieve during the holidays can reach out to others who are dealing with loss. Each person’s situation is unique, but since grief is a universal experience, you can still relate to others and come alongside them as they journey through a difficult time.
5. John 16:22
"And ye now therefore have sorrow (now is your time of grief): but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you."
Christ offers Himself in the midst of our grief. Your time of grief may be the holidays. But you can look to Christ, embrace hope, and allow Him to restore your joy.
6. Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
This verse conveys a sense of God's care and availability to us.
7. Psalm 119:50
“My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.”
When grieving during the holidays, you might ask yourself, “How am I going to get through this? Hang on to the promises of God. If you meditate on passages about God’s attributes, His love and care for you, as well as the encouragement to move forward reaching out to others, etc., that should help.
Check out my page, Dealing with Grief and Loss.