Finding Peace When Faced with Death

Number 26 in the series “God Rocks: 101 Amazing Everyday Gifts!” Stories and promises of the awesome blessings God gives us each day. I hope it encourages you today!

My father-in-law passed away a few days ago.

No matter how many times I’ve faced the death of a loved one I’m still always blindsided. Partly by grief and partly by the doubts that assail me. Doubts I thought I’d already dealt with.

Photo Credit: Beverly

“Will I see him again? How can I know for sure? Is Heaven real? Who’s there? Will I be there?”

I know, coming from a spiritually focused writer and ex-pastor, you’re shocked perhaps. I mean I’m supposed to have it all together, right? Well, not always.

I find the love expressed by friends and family tremendously supporting. But I also often find the platitudes given do little to calm the storm.

So I wrestle again and try to find that peace.

I remember the night I prayed and asked Jesus to accept me. I remember the amazing change that happened inside of me. And I know somehow he’s there and he knows me and the one I loved.

I read promises like, “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:14 NIV)

I don’t know all of what that means but I do believe if we ask him for that life he gives it. I asked and I know my father-in-law asked and somehow I believe Jesus will honor that.

Then I discover several gifts that come in the midst of the struggle.

It forces me to revisit the reasons for my belief. I entered into this relationship in a time of distress and found unexplainable peace. But I also have a restless questioning mind so through the years I’ve read and studied to understand why it all makes sense logically as well.

I stop and remember seeing God’s love shown through the one I loved and have now lost. So I’ve confidence he’s with his father right now.

Then peace trickles in. Not all at once but slowly over days.

And I’m reminded once again to slow down. Life is short. It goes by way too fast. I need to stop wasting time on stupid stuff. And spend more time with those I love while I have the opportunity.

I wish I could tell you I won’t go through this again. But I already know I will.

Yet, I also know I’ll find peace in the face of death again.

How do you find peace in those times?

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