I once heard about a grieving widow who lost her (unsaved) husband suddenly and was told by a well-meaning Christian that her beloved was in Hell. The widow was deeply wounded by this person’s careless and insensitive words and never wanted to set foot in a church again.
People who recently lost loved ones need an abundant outpouring of God’s grace, love, and compassion during their grief. Although extending these sympathies may open the door to share the gospel with them, our words and timing must be led by the Holy Spirit as we focus on consoling and comforting them. Therefore, prayer and obedience to God’s voice are invaluable tools in these sensitive and painful situations.
Paul said in Romans 12:15, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” Showing heartfelt compassion to those enduring heartbreak is a powerful way to demonstrate God’s empathy and concern toward those in mourning. Likewise, seeking Jesus is essential for knowing what to say and when to say it, because our words can evoke pain and deepen anguish if they are not bathed in godly wisdom and grace. As Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”
I hope this simple answer helps equip you to handle those who are suffering a devastating loss and to seek Jesus for clear direction and His timing for sharing the gospel with them.
