Daily devotion – The power of God’s Word for those who are grieving.
“It Is Written”
On Wednesday morning, Pastors Israel Nathanael and I oversaw the funeral of a close relative of our family at Fremantle Cemetery. Funerals carry a unique weight—there is a sacred stillness as loved ones gather to say their final farewells, each heart feeling the sharp and fresh cut of grief.
The reality of death is unmistakable. The casket rests at the centre of the service, like a beacon and a sobering reminder of life’s frailty. Memories are shared through slides, voices tremble through eulogies, and final words are spoken—words that seem far too few for the years of a life once lived.
Yet, when the one who has passed has been reconciled to Christ, something remarkable happens.
A greater narrative rises.
God’s power and grace takes sovereignty especially in the midst of our collective and personal sorrow—a quiet but powerful reminder to each of us that God is in control.
The Word of God is spoken, and with it comes life. Scriptures declaring eternal hope speak into grieving hearts, reminding us that this separation is only temporary. Our loved one is not lost—they are alive, held securely in the presence of their Heavenly Father.
The Bible assures us that a reunion is coming. A glorious day when those who have gone before us will return with Christ, and together, we shall be caught up to be with the Lord forever.
What comfort. What hope. What certainty.
This is why the importance of knowing God’s Word can never be overstated. In our deepest pain—when grief feels overwhelming—it is the truth of Scripture that steadies the soul and anchors the heart.
So this week, take time to immerse yourself in God’s Word. Store it within you. Let it dwell richly in your heart.
Because there will come a moment—perhaps when you least expect it—when the enemy will seek to overwhelm you.
And in that moment, may you stand firm, just as Jesus did in the wilderness, and declare with confidence:
“It is written…”
1 Thess 4: 13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.[fn]
15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.