I don't know about you, but at times, I have wanted to escape seasons of grief. It's hard and it's messy. But one thing I have realized, at some point in our lives we all will experience it. Some times it's through a prolonged illness or death of a loved one, loss of a friendship, or disappointments of varying degrees.

I've heard several people say recently that joy and sadness can exist at the same time. I think the same can be said of grief and rejoicing. We can hold both of those emotions in our hands and heart. 

I can't imagine God's thoughts/emotions with Jesus' death on the Cross knowing full well that His resurrection would be soon. Christ's death and resurrection would be the completion of God's glorious plan to redeem ALL of humanity; past, present, and future. What sadness and joy He must have felt at the same time. 

Grief is for this side of eternity, but it makes me long for the everlasting hope of the rejoicing we will get to experience in heaven with Jesus. 

James 1:12 "If your faith remains strong, even while surrounded by life's difficulties, you will continue to experience the untold blessings of God!" (TPT)

Wow, what a promise!  This verse speaks to why and how we can have peace in the midst of grief and difficulties. Our faith needs to remain strong and we will continue to see His blessings! That is easier said than done, but Jesus is here to walk us through. 

So, even though it can be hard, I'm thankful for grief because it gives way to seeing God heal a broken heart and bring joy in the midst of the grief. Will you trust Him today? 

This post was prompted by Kate Motaung's "Five Minute Friday," which she hosts on the Five Minute Friday website. Kate posts a single word each week and each blogger sets a timer for 5 minutes to write and then posts, with little editing. (Some weeks I have more trouble with that part than others.) Check out the other writers on this topic!