A time to gain, and a time to lose.

[Prudent1]

Ecc 3:6 NKJV
Nothing develops our character like handling loss, and the change it brings. When we lose a marriage, a job, a child, a parent, our reputation, our health, our finances, etc., we're left with an option: roll with the punches or get knocked out; flex or flounder! What was, is no more. Suddenly in limbo, we're lost between the past we knew and the future we don't. Without a road map, in strange territory, it's easy to become overwhelmed. Faith tells us that God can ultimately transform every ending into a new beginning. But till then, riveted in our pain and confusion, what do we do between the old ending and the new beginning?
That's where Israel was when Moses, their spiritual father, was taken from them. The loss left a whole nation anguished."So the sons of Israel wept for Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days" (Dt 34:8 NAS). Note: God's response to their grieving was not, "you shouldn't feel that way. Forget Moses; after all, you've got Me. It's time to toughen up. You just need more faith!" When counsel sounds "religious" and seems out of touch with reality, it doesn't come from God. He doesn't require us to be "super-spiritual," deny our grief and pretend we don't hurt. He gives us "a time to weep...mourn...lose" on our way back to "laugh...dance...gain" (Ecc 3:4-6 NKJV). He allowed an entire nation thirty days off work to feel and deal with their grief. Your tears are part of God's provision for getting you through this loss and on to your healing.

A friend shared this today. I thought it was worth passing on to you ladies.

[PinkPebbles]

Originally Posted by Prudent1

Nothing develops our character like handling loss, and the change it brings.

Thanks for sharing Prudent...this is a powerful message.

The bolded really stood out to me b/c I've found it to be true during my life journey.

I've learned most things happen for a reason and a season, but thank God every day we can experience new mercies.

[sidney]

I agree, that is a powerful message and it sheds more light on God's character. Thank you.

[Angelicus]

I can't stop crying after reading this. Thank you. I needed to hear this today.