Resources by Topic: Grief and Loss

For Christians, death is not a wall but a doorway. Death is not a last good-bye but a “See you later.” We grieve differently, yet honestly and openly, precisely because we look forward to our reunion and to a New Heaven and a New Earth.

Here are three things to remember when we’re called upon to comfort those who are grieving, especially during this holiday season.

I lost my son last year in an accident. I know he is in Heaven with Jesus, but I miss him so much. He was a wonderful person. Why does God allow people like him to die while evil people still live on the earth?

Several friends have recently had their close loved ones die. I appreciate these five points from Vaneetha Rendall Risner, a dear sister who has experienced much suffering, on how to minister to others in need. 

Question from Reader: In chapter 35 of Heaven, you talk about being reunited with infants who die. It seems in the beginning of this section that you are defending the idea that the presence of any sin in our children (which they are born into) will mean they are not saved.  Then later on, it seems you are saying that God may cover them with Christ’s blood despite the fact that they can’t confess their belief.  So, I think your stance is that children who die before they can confess their Savior may be saved.  But it’s not clear. Can you clarify?

Question from a reader: I lost a child and am seeking hope and perspective. What resources would you recommend?

Laments make up more than one-third of the psalms. The contrast between Israel’s hymnbook and the church’s says a great deal about our failure to acknowledge suffering. 

In this video clip, Randy shares how we can experience happiness in Christ even when we're going through deep grief.

Recently I was a guest on Pastor Greg Laurie’s program, A New Beginning, talking about the subject of happiness. I have a great appreciation for Greg, a good brother and a friend with a real heart for Christ and for people. 

Question from a reader: I will be attending a memorial service for a dear friend’s mother who was not a Christian. Her father is devastated, even though she had battled cancer for nine years. How can I offer hope at such a time?  

Our churches and communities, our nation and our world, are filled with grieving people—numb, broken, bitter or simply exhausted. 

Randy Alcorn explains what grief means. He explains that the absence of the person or experience in your life feels larger if they had a significant impact on you. For more information, please see Randy's book If God Is Good.

Randy recommends books and resources for those who are coping with grief and loss.

Recommended books and resources for those who are grieving, and advice for those who want to give comfort.