Faith and Beliefs

In a time of grief, it is common to struggle with our faith and beliefs. Only you can decide what choice you will make when you feel yourself being tested. Remember that new faith often grows from grief.

Here are some suggestions:

• Consider talking to a minister, priest or rabbi. Counseling can be comforting and it can help you find answers to your questions. It may even renew your faith .

• Explore and question your values and beliefs. This process will strengthen some beliefs that you have known in the past and it may even form new ones.

• Make time in your day for prayer and meditation. This can be a great source of comfort and encouragement.

• Draw strength from your faith  and others during this time. Think of your loss and grief as part of life’s uncertainties that challenge us.

Adapted from the book Hope is Like the Sun © Copyright 2004

Why God?

Regardless of your religious beliefs, it is common to ask ‘Why God?’ when tragedy strikes. While some are left angry and questioning how God could allow this to happen, others find that their faith can actually be deepened during such a time.

A belief in God is not a guarantee against pain and suffering. Death is an unavoidable part of life; and faith can be there to help us get through our losses, but it cannot prevent them. 

If you have lingering questions, consider talking to a pastor, priest, rabbi, or trusted friend. The book When Bad Things Happen to Good People may also help.

What does the Bible tell us about turning to God during trouble?

The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knowest them that trust in him. ~Nahum 1:7

Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all. ~Psalm 34:19

Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. ~Psalm 37:24

These scriptures were taken from the Authorized King James Version of the Bible.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” - Isaiah 41:10 (Holy Bible, N.I V.)

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