Facing FatherhoodExemplo

Hope in Grief for Grieving Fathers

This study is designed to provide comfort, guidance, and hope for fathers who are grieving the loss of a child. We understand that the pain of losing a child can bring isolation and unbelief. It is our prayer that as we look to the Bible, you will feel known and strengthened.

READ

2 Samuel 12:18-23 New Living Translation (NLT)Then on the seventh day the child died. David’s advisers were afraid to tell him. “He wouldn’t listen to reason while the child was ill,” they said. “What drastic thing will he do when we tell him the child is dead?” When David saw them whispering, he realized what had happened. “Is the child dead?” he asked. “Yes,” they replied, “he is dead.” Then David got up from the ground, washed himself, put on lotions, and changed his clothes. He went to the Tabernacle and worshiped the LORD. After that, he returned to the palace and was served food and ate. His advisers were amazed. “We don’t understand you,” they told him. “While the child was still living, you wept and refused to eat. But now that the child is dead, you have stopped your mourning and are eating again.” David replied, “I fasted and wept while the child was alive, for I said, ‘Perhaps the LORD will be gracious to me and let the child live.’ But why should I fast when he is dead? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him one day, but he cannot return to me.”

REFLECT

A Crushed Spirit

• Psalms 34:18 says, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” What from this verse brings you hope?
• How would you describe the crushing feeling of loss in your own grief?

A Father's Response

• David’s response to death was special. Read this out loud, “Then David got up from the ground, washed himself, put on lotions, and changed his clothes. He went to the Tabernacle and worshiped the LORD.” What thoughts or emotions do you have from his response to the death of his child?
• What have been the real obstacles in your worship of God?
• How has your community helped or hindered you through this trial?

A Hopeful Outlook

• David showed hope in his loss. He says, “I will go to him one day, but he cannot return to me.” What is special about David’s perspective?
• What has been your hope through this trial?
• What are some practical ways you can increase your faith in God as it relates to your loss?