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“I am weary with my moaning; every night I flood my bed with tears; I drench my couch with my weeping.” ~ Psalm 6:6

Problems. Challenges. Trials and tribulations. These were all promised us in this life by the Lord Himself. Sadly, there are some Christians who believe (and teach) that being a Christ-follower means your life is all rosy—and if it’s not, it’s because you lack trust and faith. But the truth is, all we have to do is open any of the Bible’s 66 books to see otherwise.

When those hard, painful times do come, and we turn to our Christian sisters for support, often we are given pillow-stitched verses in response. Of course, turning to the Word is a must, and the intentions of our friends are noble and good…

…but we know these things! We do trust that God is Sovereign. We are absolutely confident that He works all things for good in our lives (Rom 8:28). So, it’s not that we are unaware of God’s promises, we just need another form of comfort in these times.

In fact, sometimes these words of “support” can be frustrating when we simply just need to be in the pain. Even with the knowledge of God’s Truths, sometimes, like David in Psalm 6, we just need to cry. We need to feel our God-given emotions, cleansing our mind, heart, and soul. Even the Author of the Word—the Word made flesh—wept (John 11:35). Yes, Jesus, fully human and fully God, expressed His sorrow with tears.

So, sisters, when a friend reaches out to us with devastating news or a newly inflicted grief, let’s not automatically react with a familiar verse in an effort to spread balm. Instead, let’s follow Paul’s instruction from Romans 12:15 and “weep with those who weep.” Then, with tears mingling and the weight of sorrow shared, pray with her. For comfort and wisdom. For strength to hold tightly to the Rock that will sustain her amid the storm.

And don’t forget that the same is true when the agony is your own. It’s OK to call out to God with your frustration and distress. It’s OK to be certain of your faith in His plan and question the pain…and it’s certainly OK to cry.

“Lord, remind us to comfort others with loving empathy when they are hurting and to pray that they’ll hold fast to Your sovereignty and goodness amid the storms of life.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life