I recently heard about a grieving woman who lost her husband suddenly and was told by a well-meaning individual that he was in hell. The widow was deeply wounded by this person's words and terrible timing 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 Holy Spirit-led as we focus on consoling and comforting them. Therefore, prayer and obedience to God’s voice are invaluable tools to employ during 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 a must for knowing what to say and when to say it. Our words can evoke pain and further 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 suffering a devastating loss and causes you to seek Jesus for clear direction and His timing for sharing the gospel with them.
