![]() In times like these, it helps to lean hard on the One who knows the future ( Proverbs 3:5-6).Īccording to psychologists and Christian counselors, there are many normal reactions to loss that can cause grief, and many reactions are learned in childhood. Transitions can leave us in a place of ambiguity, or they can enable us to think creatively and consider new ways of living and moving forward. Or for some, it might create even more stress. Grieving predictable loss in advance can help ease the pain. They may even wonder if there’s any hope for a fulfilling life in the future-so in their unsettled state, they grieve loss. While many look forward to retirement, others see it as an end to a beautiful career, and they wonder what they’ll do next. Another predictable transition is retirement. In many cases, these losses might also be considered transitions, such as we see with the “lesser” losses like leaving or losing a home, changing positions at a job, or graduating from school. We may have more time to consider how we will deal with them, but they can still cause pain and grief. Is it Okay to Grieve “Predictable Losses?”Īlthough some losses are unexpected and hit hard, other losses are more predictable. He is acquainted with grief ( Isaiah 53:3-and yet He says, “Blessed are those who morn, for they shall be comforted” ( Matthew 5:4). He is the God of all comfort ( 2 Corinthians 1:3-5) and His Son, Jesus, understands our struggle. Whatever the loss, God is near His brokenhearted children when they cry for help ( Psalm 34:17-20). He also mourned his son Absalom’s rebellion and death ( 2 Samuel 15:6, 30 18:5, 33). Graduating from school is also considered a lesser loss, as well as natural loss of physical ability that doesn’t involve loss of health.ĭavid mourned the loss of a son following a sinful choice ( 2 Samuel 12:15-23). Some might consider loss of a much-beloved pet a “lesser” loss, but others might see it as a “bigger” loss. “Lesser” losses might include moving-leaving a home and moving to a new home-or a simple job change. Something few talk about-but a loss that’s a source of deep grieving for many-is the loss of a person’s innocence or sense of well-being because of abuse or neglect. Other big losses are financial loss with the ensuing loss of stability, loss of a close personal relationship (such as the breakup of an engagement), loss of a marriage through divorce, or loss of health through disease.īig losses might also include loss of a long-time dream, loss of a job that shuts down a career, or loss of vibrant Christian ministry. ![]() There are the typical “bigger” losses like loss of a spouse, a close relative, or a dear friend. Grieving losses is hard, whether losses are big or small. It might even help Christians better understand their own grieving. Understanding the varied kinds of loss that can cause grief will help Christians come alongside to love, support, and counsel those who grieve. ![]() ![]() Some losses are unpredictable, and others are predictable. What may be a cause for grief for some people might be taken in stride by others-or at least they face their trial with a minimum of stress. But life offers many reasons for grieving. Because grieving over death is the form of grieving most people address, we may assume it’s the only cause for grief.
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