My Grief, God’s Grace

[The LORD] has not despised or scorned the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help.

Psalm 22:24

Pregnant with our second child, I went to a routine doctor’s appointment, looking forward to hearing my baby’s heartbeat. As the doctor began to listen, he seemed to take a long time to find it. Then I saw on his face that something was seriously wrong and heard the crushing words “Christine, I’m so sorry. I can’t find a heartbeat.”

It was a loss that sent me reeling. Could I still believe that God is good? Would I ever be able to fully trust Him again? Could I find strength in the truths of His Word despite this devastating loss?

In the days after we lost our precious baby, I spent as much time as possible in church. And amazingly, at a point when I was worshiping, God healed my heart. He took away my grief and filled me with renewed hope about my future. I believe He acted in this gracious way because I had chosen to worship Him despite my heartache. I learned through that act of grace that we can trust Him with our grief, no matter what happens.

Holy Spirit, You know my heartache. I welcome You as my Comforter—and please help me hold on to You and trust You once again.