Mourning = Comfort

I grew up in a Christian home, so I’ve known, read, and heard the words of the Beatitudes for most of my life. But I never truly understood today’s verse until my older brother passed away in December 2020. Jesus’ words in Matthew 5 seem simple and self-explanatory. Yet often, we go searching for a deep or novel revelation—something that sounds spiritual or feels profound.

What I didn’t expect to learn during my season of grief was this: when I allowed myself to truly mourn—through tears, silence, shouts, or whatever form it took—the Holy Spirit comforted me, just as Jesus promised. More than that, my family, friends, and community showed up. They made themselves available and became tangible expressions of that comfort.

Put simply: the words of Jesus are true—when you mourn, you will be comforted.

John 16:7 - Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. (KJV)

One of the saddest mistakes we sometimes make as Christians in times of grief—whether from death, loss, or disappointment—is pretending we’re not mourning.

Often, our reasons seem noble. We want to show strength as a testimony of God’s goodness. Or do we feel we need to hold it together for the sake of others who are grieving? But when we suppress our grief, we miss out on the very blessing Jesus promised: the comfort that restores and strengthens us. And without realizing it, we begin relying on our own strength instead of receiving God’s.

As hard as it may be, especially in seasons of loss, the best thing we can do is allow ourselves to mourn. Why? Because mourning opens the door to comfort, healing, and wholeness. And once we’ve been comforted, we’re better equipped to extend comfort to others.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. (NLT)

Questions for reflection: Have I given myself permission to mourn any loss or disappointment I’ve experienced? Am I willing to receive comfort—from the Holy Spirit and from the people around me? Do I recognize that being comforted enables me to comfort others?