Loss brings grief. Major losses produce profound grief. Permanent major losses can engender lasting, inconsolable sorrow. What does the Bible say to such pain? That the ruined relationship will be repaired? The failure undone? The loved one brought back to life? There is perhaps some hope in certain situations, but others preclude any expectation of restoration. What then? Are we left to sink under the weight of grief, or wallow in a swamp[ of self-pity? Not at all! God has words of encouragement for all those who love Him, trust in His Son Jesus, and rely on the Holy Spirit for daily strength. We are not alone. Jesus has Himself walked the path of pain and sorrow; He knows. Even now, He prays for us, as the Holy Spirit intercedes for us within our deepest being. God cares, and He hears. As we face, and accept as final, the agony of loss, we discover a greater gain: “O LORD, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup… In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:5,11). “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust” (Psalm 18:2). “They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, and Yu give them drink from the rivers of Your pleasures. For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light” (Psalm 36:8). “Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is non upon earth that I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart fail; but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Psalm 73:26). “Neither death, nor life… nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).