Grace Reload

Encountering God's Grace When Facing Grief

This month has been full of highs and lows—moments of joy quickly followed by heartache. I experienced one of the most rewarding times in ministry at church camp, leading students to Christ and watching their faith come alive. Yet, upon returning home, I was immediately met with the heavy reality of my grandfather’s declining health. I’ve never faced such an emotional roller coaster in such a short time, but through it all, I can confidently say that God’s hand and grace have been evident.

Each year, camp teaches me something new as a leader. It pushes me out of my comfort zone, challenges my faith, and deepens my understanding of God’s character. This year, even before camp began, God placed this verse on my heart:

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

(Matthew 11:28, ESV)

I didn’t realize how much I would cling to this promise. Whether facing trials at camp, walking through my family’s challenges, or carrying the weight of emotional and physical exhaustion, God’s presence and rest have remained constant.

I’m reminded of the prophet Jeremiah, who remained faithful to proclaim God’s word even when it cost him dearly. Despite being thrown into prison for speaking truth, Jeremiah never stopped serving. Even as he delivered messages of judgment, God also gave him words of hope and restoration:

“For I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish.”

(Jeremiah 31:25, ESV)

In seasons of ministry, grief, and self-doubt, I’m learning that God’s grace truly is greater—greater than my exhaustion, greater than my questions, and greater than my fears as both a disciple and a leader.

Your Doubts Don’t Define You—Grace Does

Maybe you've felt this too:

• When you doubt your walk as a disciple and wonder if you’re truly following Jesus the way you should.

• When you doubt your calling as a leader and question if you’re making a real impact.

God’s grace meets you right there, reminding you that His power is made perfect in weakness. Doubt may creep in when facing difficult situations that come your way, but God’s grace remains steadfast. He never changes, He is the same God that gave hope to Jeremiah and all Israel and has not changed today. He replenishes the weary soul and gives rest to the burdened heart. Even in seasons of grief, His presence is our unshakable foundation.