Read: 2 Samuel 18:1-18,33

O my son Absalom – my son, my son Absalom – if only I had died in your place! -2 Samuel
18:33

Family members grieved deeply when 32-year-old Cindy died, but they also experienced
great comfort. They knew that Cindy had a strong personal faith in Jesus. They also were
confident that she left this world knowing she was greatly loved. And when she died, they
had no regrets because they had enjoyed a good relationship with her.

King David’s grief was not lessened by any such comforting thoughts. He knew his son
Absalom had died as a rebel. David, I am sure, had regrets about the kind of example he
had set in his life (his multiple marriages, his sin with Bathsheba, and unresolved family
disputes).

We cannot prevent the death of family members, but we can do much to lessen our grief
when it happens. Right now we can commit ourselves to put God’s glory and the good of our
loved ones above our own selfish desires. We can talk to them about our faith in Christ.
We can express our love for them. And we can make sure that we have done everything
possible to resolve conflicts. This may call for humble confession – and that may not be
easy – but a restored relationship will lessen the grief when a loved one dies.

What can you do to prepare for good grief?

-Herbert Vander Lugt

The death of people whom we love Brings sorrow and deep pain; But if our loved ones
know the Lord, Our loss becomes their gain. -Sper

RIGHT RELATIONSHIPS IN LIFE EASE THE STING OF GRIEF IN DEATH.

 OUR DAILY BREAD, Copyright 1999 by Radio Bible Class,

Grand Rapids,Michigan. Used by permission.

 – Geo –

Edwardsburg, MI