OVERWHELMING GRIEF

Overwhelming Grief 

Jennifer Woodley

‘When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns.’ Matthew 14:13 (NIV).

John the Baptist had just been beheaded. Jesus, overwhelmed with grief about the news of His friend, sought solace alone with His Father. In His time of grief, Jesus found it necessary to withdraw and pour out His heart to the One who understood.

In our times of grief and sadness, we too will need to do the same. Just as it is necessary to have the support of friends and family, it is also important to bring our burdens to God in prayer. Our Heavenly Father can empathise with us in our sorrow and He alone can empower us with the love and strength to keep going. No other can do this for us. God sustains us. 

Are we in a place of grief and sadness just now? Let’s exchange our grief and heaviness for His rest and peace. God will work a miracle of healing in us. His Spirit ministers comfort and compassion into our grieving hearts, so that in time, we are able to continue on, move beyond our own grief and bring comfort to others. As we have freely received from God in our overwhelming grief, we are able to liberally give to others. 

‘Lord Jesus, you know what it is like to carry overwhelming grief. I ask that you might lift my burden of sadness at this time and fill me with your strength, your peace and the will to continue when I feel like giving up. Thank you.’

Jennifer is a freelance writer who enjoys encouraging others on their Christian journey through writing and mentoring. Contact