When we worship—especially in pain—something holy happens. Our focus begins to shift from our sorrow to the greatness of our God. In that place we find healing and peace. Lifting our hands can be a simple, embodied way to say, I’m not holding anything back. I surrender. It’s the universal sign of release and trust.

Worship gives us room to express our pain, questions, and doubts, while it gently reminds us of God’s goodness, faithfulness, and love. The Psalms were written for this—songs that carry both lament and praise. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3)

Choosing to worship in grief is a declaration: my pain does not have the final say—God does. Worship lifts our eyes from what’s temporary to what is eternal; from our struggles to our Savior who overcame them.

Ways to weave worship into your healing

Begin the day with worship. Let one song or a few quiet minutes set the tone. Sing if you can, or simply sit with the lyrics and breathe.
Let worship help you process emotions. When waves of grief rise, turn on a worship song in the kitchen, on a walk, or in the car. Let the words say what your heart can’t yet articulate and meet God right there.
Create a worship space. A chair by the window, a spot on the back porch, a path under the trees—keep your Bible, journal, and headphones nearby so it becomes a little sanctuary you return to.
Worship with others when you’re able. Corporate worship reminds us we’re not alone. Close your eyes and listen to God’s people sing; it’s a small echo of the day when every tribe and tongue will worship the King together.

A reminder for tender days: worship doesn’t erase pain. It invites God’s presence into the pain, and where He is, there is always hope and peace. Everything God touches, He changes.

A gentle worship playlist for hard days

These songs echo surrender, trust, and the presence of the Healer. Let the lyrics wash over you.

• “It Is Well” (Bethel Music) — a strong declaration of trust in God’s sovereignty in every circumstance; consider reading Horatio Spafford’s story behind the hymn.

• “Raise a Hallelujah” (Jonathan & Melissa Helser) — praise in the face of fear.

• “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” (Hillsong) — when you feel overwhelmed, step out in faith and let God hold you.

• “Goodness of God” (Jenn Johnson) — a testimony of God’s faithfulness even in the hard.

• “You’re Gonna Be OK” (Brian & Jenn Johnson) — reassurance for nights that feel impossible.

• “Reckless Love” (Cory Asbury) — the relentless love of God when you feel unworthy.

• “Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace)” (Hillsong) — the timeless grace that restores what’s shattered; John Newton’s story of redemption adds fresh depth.

As you listen, remember God’s promise: “to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” (Isaiah 61:3)

A prayer for your next step
Lord, meet me here. Receive what I cannot carry. Trade my heaviness for Your presence, my sorrow for Your joy, and my ache for Your peace. Amen.

When you’re ready for more support
I created a free grief resource to help you breathe through hard days with simple prompts and faith‑rooted encouragement. Keep it on your phone, and share it with a friend who needs it: https://BookHip.com/GFKWFTK

The post Worship in Grief: How Surrender Heals the Brokenhearted appeared first on Jenny Leavitt.

That’s why I’m honored to recommend a compassionate, biblically grounded resource for any widow walking this painful road:

W.I.N.G.S.: Hope for Widows in New Growth Seasons
by Virginia Grounds

Why W.I.N.G.S. is So Needed Right Now

Written with deep empathy and spiritual wisdom, W.I.N.G.S. offers both a soft place to land and a steady place to stand. It’s one of the most honest and hopeful books I’ve read for Christian widows. Here’s why it stands out:

💔 It Validates the Mental and Emotional Fog of Grief

• The book addresses “Widow Brain”—a term many grieving women resonate with.

• Virginia Grounds explains the cognitive and emotional disorientation that can follow the loss of a spouse.

• This section alone offers immediate relief by assuring readers: You’re not crazy. You’re grieving.

🕊 It Offers a Safe, Shared Space with Other Widows

• Throughout the book, Virginia includes testimonies from widows at various stages of grief.

• These voices make readers feel seen and less alone.

• Their stories create a sacred sense of community on the page.

✍️ It Provides Practical, Daily Guidance

Each chapter ends with Practical Tips—and I had the privilege of writing them.

These action steps are:

• Simple but meaningful

• Designed for overwhelmed hearts

• Grounded in Scripture and gentle encouragement

Whether it’s how to handle quiet mornings or how to navigate family gatherings, these tips offer hope through tangible next steps.

🌿 It Shifts the Focus from Grief to Growth

• The book doesn’t gloss over pain—but it gently redirects it toward purpose.

• With biblical insight, Virginia invites readers to discover God’s faithfulness in their new season.

• It becomes less about “getting over” the loss and more about growing through it.

Who This Book is For

• New widows feeling disoriented and alone

• Women further along in their grief journey, needing spiritual refreshment

• Pastors, counselors, and lay leaders looking to support grieving women in their churches

• Family members who want to understand and care for a grieving widow

Why I Personally Recommend It

I’ve spent years walking with grieving women—and I’ve lived through the valley of grief myself.

This book doesn’t offer quick fixes. It offers faithful presence. It’s a kind companion in the dark, gently pointing you back to the One who walks with us even there.

Whether you’re just starting your healing or have been walking it for a while, W.I.N.G.S. offers spiritual nourishment, practical hope, and a renewed sense of identity.

🔗 You can learn more or order the book here

📣 Call to Action: You Are Not Alone—Let’s Walk This Together

If this post resonated with you, I encourage you to explore W.I.N.G.S.: Hope for Widows in New Growth Seasons. It may be the gentle lifeline your heart needs right now.

💌 And if you’d like more resources like this—delivered with hope, honesty, and faith—join my email community today. When you sign up, you’ll receive my FREE devotional ebook:

👉 Download “Sources of Hope” now through BookFunnel

You’ll also be the first to hear about new tools, grief recovery content, and upcoming faith-based resources.

The post W.I.N.G.S.: A Powerful Christian Resource Bringing Hope for Widows in Grief Recovery appeared first on Jenny Leavitt.

Grief is heavy. It can feel like a storm that never ends, leaving you exhausted, searching for steady ground. If you’re here today, I want you to know you are not alone.

I understand the weight of loss. After losing my son Jacob, I questioned if I would ever feel whole again. But through the pain, I discovered that resilience doesn’t mean forgetting or “moving on.” It means learning to lean on God, one day at a time.

Faith doesn’t erase the grief, but it anchors us in hope, strengthens us when we feel weak, and reminds us that our story isn’t over.

Here are three powerful ways faith helps us build resilience after loss.

1. Faith Anchors Us in God’s Promises

When life feels uncertain, faith reminds us that God is still in control.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” —Psalm 46:1

In the hardest moments, God’s Word is like a lighthouse in the storm—guiding, steady, and unwavering. When grief makes everything feel unstable, His promises remind us:

✅ You are not alone.
✅ His love for you has not changed.
✅ He will walk with you through the valley of sorrow.

Take time to pray, journal, and meditate on Scripture. Even when it’s hard to see past the pain, trust that God is holding you close.

2. Faith Gives Us Strength to Keep Going

Loss can make it feel impossible to move forward. But God gives us the strength to take the next step, even when we don’t feel ready.

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” —Isaiah 41:10

Resilience isn’t about pretending you’re okay—it’s about trusting that God will meet you in the next step.

Here are a few gentle, grace-filled ways to begin moving forward:

• Take one small step each day—whether it’s getting fresh air, reading Scripture, or reaching out to a friend.
• Surround yourself with faith-filled encouragement—listen to worship music, sermons, or uplifting podcasts.
• Give yourself permission to grieve, but don’t isolate. God created us for community, and healing happens in connection.

You don’t have to rush the process. Just take one step, and let God carry you.

3. Faith Reminds Us That Our Story Isn’t Over

Grief can feel isolating, like the world has moved on while you’re still standing in the wreckage. But God is still working in your life.

“[God] comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” —2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Your story still has purpose. Even in the pain, God can bring beauty.

💛 Maybe that means sharing your journey to encourage someone else.
💛 Maybe it’s finding new ways to serve and love others.
💛 Maybe it’s simply trusting that God is using this season to shape you, even when you don’t understand why.

I’ve seen firsthand how God takes our deepest heartbreaks and turns them into stories of hope. And if you’re walking this road today, I want you to know: your story isn’t over.

You Are Not Alone—Hope is Still Ahead

Friend, if you feel like your heart is too heavy to carry, take a deep breath. Hope is not lost. Healing is still possible. God is still with you.

You don’t have to rush this journey. You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to take the next step, trusting that God will meet you there.

And if you need a guide along the way, I’d love to walk this road with you. My course, Resilient: How to Navigate Grief While Holding onto Your Hope in Christ, is designed to give you the practical tools, biblical encouragement, and faith-filled support you need as you find your way forward.

🌟 Special launch price: $497 (payment plans available)
💻 Click here to learn more and enroll today.

You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s walk this journey together, holding onto faith, hope, and the promise that God is not done writing your story.

#FaithAndHealing #ResilienceThroughFaith #HopeAfterLoss

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Yet, even in the darkest moments, God offers us hope and connection. If you’ve been struggling with loneliness in your grief, here are five faith-based tips to help you find comfort and community.

1. Lean into God’s Presence

One of the most comforting promises in Scripture is that God is always with us. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

I remember sitting in quiet moments, feeling the weight of my loss, and simply asking God to show me that He was near. Over time, I began to sense His presence more deeply, even in the stillness. Spend time in prayer and Scripture, inviting God to remind you that He is with you, even when it feels like you’re alone.

2. Embrace Your Church Community

The church is so much more than a building—it’s a family of believers who can walk alongside us in our hardest moments. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us not to neglect meeting together but to encourage one another.

When I was struggling with loneliness, stepping back into a church community felt daunting, but it made such a difference. If you’re not part of a church, consider finding one where you can feel supported and connected. Many churches offer small groups or grief ministries where you can share your journey and build meaningful relationships.

3. Take the First Step Toward Connection

Loneliness often tempts us to withdraw, but healing often begins when we take that first brave step toward others. Whether it’s joining a Bible study, volunteering, or simply reaching out to a trusted friend, these small actions can lead to deep and meaningful connections.

I know how hard it can be to take that step when you feel emotionally drained, but I’ve found that God often works through people to bring comfort and hope. Trust Him as you open your heart to community.

4. Speak Truth Over Your Thoughts

Grief and loneliness can lead us to believe lies like, “No one cares about me,” or, “I’m all alone.” These thoughts feel so real in the moment, but God’s Word offers us truth to replace those lies.

One verse that has been especially comforting to me is Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” When negative thoughts arise, try speaking God’s promises over yourself. Replace fear with faith and remind yourself of His unchanging love and presence.

5. Seek Faith-Based Resources for Healing

Sometimes, finding the right resource can be a turning point in our healing journey. Faith-based tools, like devotionals, books, or courses, can provide practical guidance and spiritual encouragement as you work through your grief.

I created How to Overcome Loneliness in Grief because I know how isolating this journey can feel. This course is filled with practical tips and biblically grounded encouragement to help you rediscover connection and hope. It’s the resource I wish I’d had during my loneliest moments.

Find Hope and Connection Today

You don’t have to face loneliness alone. With God’s help and the right tools, healing is possible. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to invite you to join my course, How to Overcome Loneliness in Grief.

🌟 Special launch price: $17
💻 Click here to learn more.

Let’s walk this journey of healing and hope together.

#FaithInGrief #HealingThroughChrist #HopeInCommunity

The post 5 Faith-Based Tips for Overcoming Loneliness in Grief appeared first on Jenny Leavitt.

In my latest YouTube video, I dive into the key lessons from this inspiring book. You can watch it here: https://youtu.be/jCxwE2m6THI.

What Is ‘Divine Disruption’ All About?

The Evans family wrote this book after experiencing the heartbreaking loss of Lois Evans, Dr. Tony Evans’s beloved wife and their mother. Together, they share deeply personal stories about grief, loss, and the strength they’ve found in trusting God’s plan through it all. Each family member brings their unique perspective, creating a tapestry of encouragement for anyone who’s ever faced life’s unexpected storms.

What Does It Mean to Embrace a ‘Divine Disruption’?

Life’s disruptions—the ones that knock us off our feet—are often where God meets us most profoundly. The Evans family describes these moments not as detours but as opportunities to grow spiritually and lean into God. They remind us that even in our pain, there’s purpose. While disruptions shake us, they also invite us to build an unshakable faith.

Why You Should Read This Book

This isn’t just another book about grief. Divine Disruption is filled with practical takeaways for living out your faith when life feels hardest. The Evans family reminds us to practice gratitude, even in the darkest moments, to lean on others for support, and to stay grounded through prayer and scripture. One of my favorite quotes from the book is, “If God showed us the whole journey, we’d never take the first step.” What a beautiful reminder to trust God, even when the way forward feels unclear.

If you’re walking through a tough season—or if you simply want to be encouraged in your faith—this book is for you. And if you’d like to hear more about the Evans family’s insights and how they’ve impacted my own perspective, check out my video: https://youtu.be/jCxwE2m6THI.

Let’s talk about it in the comments! What’s been your greatest lesson about faith during life’s hardest moments? I’d love to hear your thoughts. 💛

The post Divine Disruption: Embracing Faith Through Life’s Unexpected Challenges appeared first on Jenny Leavitt.

Introducing ‘Clinging to Hope’ by Charles Swindoll

“Clinging to Hope” is a non-fiction masterpiece crafted by Charles Swindoll, a respected Bible teacher known for his grounded approach to the Scriptures. The book is designed to provide spiritual guidance and reassurance during life’s most challenging moments. Swindoll masterfully intertwines scriptural truths with practical advice, offering readers a reliable source of hope and a robust anchor amid life’s storms. Whether you are currently grieving or facing any form of adversity, this book aims to be a stalwart companion.

The Book’s Relevance in Times of Adversity

Swindoll’s book is not just for those experiencing grief but for anyone wrestling with hardship. In our unpredictable world, facing calamities and unexpected tests has become almost a norm. The strength of “Clinging to Hope” lies in its universal applicability. The book covers a spectrum of adversities, allowing readers from different walks of life to find hope and strength. Through its structured chapters, Swindoll ensures that the readers can easily navigate through their struggles, emphasizing the significance of grace, humility, and recognizing God’s presence throughout their journey.

Key Themes and Insights from the Book

One of the most compelling aspects of “Clinging to Hope” is its array of key themes that are both thought-provoking and deeply comforting. Swindoll addresses various forms of suffering, such as personal loss, unexpected life challenges, and the general trials that life throws our way. Each chapter is rich with insights on how to stay rooted in the truth amidst chaos. The book continually points back to the reality of God’s enduring presence and the importance of relying on Him for strength.

Exploring the Concept of Suffering

A significant portion of the book delves into the ever-persistent question of why suffering exists in our world. Swindoll’s exploration of this theme is not just theological but profoundly practical. He provides readers with scriptural reassurances, illustrating that even in seemingly hopeless circumstances, there is a way to find hope and strength. This approach empowers readers to reframe their perspectives on suffering, viewing it not just as an ordeal but as an opportunity for spiritual growth and deeper faith.

Applying Scriptural Promises for Strength and Hope

What sets “Clinging to Hope” apart is its actionable advice grounded in scripture. Swindoll doesn’t merely offer platitudes; he arms readers with promises from the Bible that they can actively apply in their daily lives. These scriptural promises serve as a foundation, helping readers build resilience and strength. By meditating on these truths, readers can reinforce their hope and find peace, even during the most tumultuous times.

Wrapping Up

“Clinging to Hope” by Charles Swindoll is more than just a book; it is a lifeline for those navigating the rough seas of adversity. It offers timeless wisdom, steeped in scriptural truth, and provides practical guidance to help you hold on to hope and strength. Whether you’re facing grief, unexpected challenges, or personal suffering, this book can be a help to you. It can be a companion tool in your devotional time as you remember that even in your darkest hours, hope is always within reach.

Want to Dive Deeper?

This post was inspired by insights shared in my latest YouTube video. If you’re interested in diving deeper into this topic, you can watch the full video here. Don’t forget to subscribe for more content on faith, grief recovery, and hope-filled living.

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Understanding the Connection Between Grief and Anger

Grief and anger are often intertwined. When we lose someone dear, our world is shaken, and it’s natural to experience a range of emotions, including anger. It’s possible to direct this anger at the person who passed away, circumstances, others, or even ourselves. Ephesians 4:26-27 reminds us, ‘In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Acknowledging anger is an essential part of the grieving process, but letting it fester can turn it into something more damaging, like bitterness.

The Importance of Forgiveness for Personal Healing

Forgiveness is a crucial step towards personal healing. When we hold on to anger and bitterness, it can consume our heart and mind. Colossians 3:13 advises us, ‘Forgive as the Lord forgave you.’ By choosing to forgive, we release the control that these negative emotions have over us. It’s important to note that forgiveness is more for our own peace and healing rather than for the offender. Letting go of anger allows us to move forward in our grieving process, providing a sense of relief and inner peace.

Practical Steps to Begin Forgiving

Forgiveness may not come easily, but it is essential for healing. Here are some practical steps to initiate the forgiveness process:

• Pray for Strength and Guidance: Start by praying for strength and guidance. Be honest with God about your feelings and ask for help to forgive.
• Acknowledge Your Pain: It’s crucial to acknowledge your pain. Staying silent about your hurt can lead to bitterness. Talk to God or a trusted friend about your feelings.
• Make a Conscious Choice to Forgive: Forgiveness is a decision, not a feeling. Choose to forgive to help in your healing process, even if your emotions haven’t caught up yet.
• Symbolic Acts: Sometimes, symbolic acts can help release emotional burdens. Writing unsent letters to the person who hurt you or throwing stones into a lake can be cathartic experiences.
• Seek Support: Seek support from trusted friends, family, or counselors. Sharing your journey with others can provide additional strength and encouragement.
• Learn from the Most Inspirational Model of Forgiveness: Lessons from Jesus

One of the most profound models of forgiveness comes from Jesus on the cross. Despite enduring extreme suffering, Jesus chose to forgive those who were causing His pain, saying in Luke 23:34, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ This act of forgiveness is an inspiration for all of us. It shows that forgiveness, even in the most challenging circumstances, is possible with God’s guidance. Jesus’s example assures us that we can find freedom and peace from the weight of anger and bitterness one step at a time.

The journey of forgiveness during grief can be challenging, but it is also a powerful path toward healing and peace. By understanding the connection between grief and anger, recognizing the importance of forgiveness, taking practical steps to forgive, and looking to Jesus as our inspiring model, we can navigate our grief with grace and find peace. Remember, forgiveness is not just for the offender; it’s a vital part of our own healing journey.

Do you have any practical tips for working through forgiveness in grief? Share them in the comments!

To view the video this post is based on, click here.

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Coping with the Loss of a Child

Dealing with the loss of a child is one of life’s most challenging experiences. It is crucial to find ways to navigate this painful journey. Author Gary Roe has dedicated his works to this very purpose, providing hope and actionable steps to those who grieve.

Book Recommendations by Gary Roe

Gary Roe’s books, such as “Broken and Whole: Experiencing God After the Loss of a Child” and “Shattered: Surviving the Loss of a Child,” are tailored to be practical and easy-to-digest, with short chapters. These books provide profound insights while being digestible, much like a devotional.

Personal Experiences and Practical Steps

In his books, Gary utilizes his expertise and personal experiences to offer practical steps for navigating grief. Readers have found these steps invaluable, offering a structured approach to dealing with an unstructured emotional journey.

The Therapeutic Power of Writing

Writing can be a therapeutic tool for processing grief, as highlighted in Roe’s book, “Grieving the Write Way.” This book encourages using writing to explore and heal from grief, promoting a constructive outlet for your emotions.

Community Support and Shared Book Recommendations

Beyond just reading, Gary Roe promotes community engagement. Sharing book recommendations fosters a sense of support and camaraderie among those dealing with loss. This collective wisdom can be a beacon of hope during dark times.

Watch the Video for More Insight

If you’d like to dive deeper into this topic, watch the full video on my YouTube channel where I discuss Gary Roe’s essential book recommendations for navigating grief after the loss of a child.

The post Navigating Grief with Gary Roe: Essential Book Recommendations for Healing After Loss appeared first on Jenny Leavitt.

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve just completed my new course, Resilient: How to Navigate Grief While Holding onto Your Hope in Christ. This course is designed to help individuals find biblical support, hope, and healing as they navigate the difficult journey of grief.

I’m currently looking for a small group of beta testers who are willing to try out the course for free and provide me with feedback. Your insights will help me refine the content and ensure it’s truly impactful for others who are seeking comfort and direction through their loss.

Here’s what you’ll get as a beta tester:

– Full access to all course materials

– Engaging video lessons, journal prompts, prayers, and guided exercises

– A workbook filled with practical strategies rooted in Scripture

– Downloadable resources to enhance your learning experience

All I ask in return is your honest feedback on the course content, format, and usability to help me make it the best it can be!

If you or someone you know is interested, please send me a message, or email me at jenny@jennyleavitt.com.

Thank you for considering this opportunity, and I look forward to journeying through this with you! 

Blessings,  

Jenny Leavitt

The post Exciting Announcement: Seeking Beta Testers for New Christian Grief Course | Resilient: Navigating Grief with Hope in Christ appeared first on Jenny Leavitt.

Grief is a universal experience that touches us all at some point in our lives. The journey through loss and pain can be overwhelming, but amidst the darkness, there is a beacon of hope and healing found in Starlight Ministries. Join us as we explore how this Michigan-based organization is providing a guiding light for those navigating the turbulent waters of grief.

My Grief Journey

Imagine facing a devastating family tragedy in 2015 and feeling lost in the depths of despair. This was the reality for me which led me on a quest to find peace in biblically based resources for handling grief. This search ultimately led me to Starlight Ministries, a beacon of light in the darkness, offering unwavering support and resources deeply rooted in Christian beliefs.

Exploring Starlight Ministries and its Resources

Starlight Ministries stands out as a pillar of strength, providing a plethora of free resources and online support groups for individuals grappling with grief. Their motto, ‘where hope outshines grief,’ encapsulates their mission to walk alongside those in pain and offer both biblical and practical guidance for processing grief. From downloadable resources to in-person events, Starlight Ministries ensures that no one has to navigate their grief journey alone.

Finding Healing and Hope through ‘A Journey Through Lament’

One of the standout resources offered by Starlight Ministries is ‘A Journey Through Lament.’ This program delves into weekly discussions, prayers, and reflections rooted in a biblical framework to address grief. Participants are encouraged to engage with their emotions authentically, confronting feelings of anger, pain, and questioning while striving towards healing and acceptance through the power of prayer and reflection.

Through ‘A Journey Through Lament,’ individuals are guided on a path that leads to a deeper understanding of biblical examples of addressing emotions such as anger, pain, questioning, trust, and ultimately, hope. This resource serves as a safe space for individuals to process their grief in a healthy, constructive manner, and is just one example of their offerings.

Starlight Ministries offers a sanctuary for those navigating the turbulent seas of grief. With a blend of unwavering support, biblical teachings, and practical guidance, individuals can find peace, healing, and hope in the midst of their darkest moments.

Interested in learning more? Go to Starlight Ministries, where the light of hope shines brightly, illuminating the path towards healing and restoration.

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