We must understand that we serve a God that displays a wide range of emotions. While all are expressed in pure righteousness, we must know that God has experienced the deepest levels of sorrow, grief, and trauma.

Jesus wept. The shortest and perhaps one of the most profound passages laid out for us in the gospels. We find that Jesus wept not once, but three times in various passages, showing that He was in tune with pain and suffering.

The first time is captured in John 11:35 upon the news of His beloved friend, Lazarus. Jesus knew that death had a way of bringing on a level of pain that is associated with this fragile life here on earth.

Even though He would raise him up from the dead, we see humanity come through here as He is moved with such compassion.

The second time Jesus wept was over the city of Jerusalem. As Jesus enters the city on a lowly donkey, He looks out and gazes upon the people — God’s chosen.

Yet, Jesus knew that many were going to miss the invitation to salvation, due to their unbelief in Who He was. He was grieved that many would refuse this act of mercy for their souls.

The third time we see Jesus weep is in the Garden of Gethsemane. As the time and hour drew near for His crucifixion on that cross, deep and spiritual anguish took over Him through prayer, supplication, and tears of blood. We get a sense of His pure anguish, and sorrow, as well as feelings of betrayal and abandonment.

Friend, our God understands what it is like to suffer and endure trauma. If we fail to remember that all we need to do is take a look at the cross.

Hold on to this…your suffering, sorrow, and trauma does not make you who you are — God does! You are His beloved child, fully redeemed, while being constantly restored and refined.

All the while, lavished in His mercy and grace, set free and forgiven, as you walk in the light being led by the Holy Spirit. 

Therefore, you, my dear, hold the inheritance to a great kingdom that will forever rein. So, let us not fix our eyes upon the trials and tribulations of this world, but set our sights on that of eternity.

For further reading:

In the Treatment Plan for Trauma and Tragedy — Hope Is the First Dose

4 Helpful Ways to Heal from Childhood Trauma

3 Ways to Conquer Your Panic Attacks

Photo Credit:©Getty Images/Marjan_Apostolovic

Alicia Searl is a devotional author, blogger, and speaker that is passionate about pouring out her heart and pointing ladies of all ages back to Jesus. She has an education background and master’s in literacy.  Her favorite people call her Mom, which is why much of her time is spent cheering them on at a softball game or dance class. She is married to her heartthrob (a tall, spiky-haired blond) who can whip up a mean latte. She sips that goodness while writing her heart on a page while her puppy licks her feet. Visit her website at aliciasearl.com and connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.

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