A few thoughts on disappointment and grief

Disappointment is inevitable.

Sometimes, and perhaps often in these days of monumental societal and cultural changes, things do not work out the way we expected or hoped.

This can be especially difficult when there were deeply held expectations or hopes. If we do not grieve those losses, we can end up living in the land of being stuck or mired in disappointment, and this is not what God intends.

Grief is God’s gift to us. It is the normal and natural emotional response by which we process the disappointment associated with loss.

There are various emotions and stages associated with the grieving process (e.g., denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance). It is important to keep in mind that each person’s journey through grief will look different and no two losses are grieved in the same way.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4 (NIV)

As we move through the grieving process, we can let go of the disappoint and experience joy again along with the ability to embrace God’s renewed hope and vision for our future.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Jim Kubiak serves as a pastor at large in Bonner County. He can be reached at JimKubiak7@gmail.com.