When faced with the harsh reality of loss, it can be gut-wrenching to process through the unwanted feelings of heartache, loneliness, and despair. Whether it is the death of a loved one, the failure of a relationship, the loss of a job and possessions, or the loss of long-awaited dreams and expectations, there are levels of pain and grief that accompany the experience. But even though it may feel unbearable, choosing to embrace grief and connect with God in our most painful seasons is possible when we take the fullness of our sorrow to Him and receive the comfort only He can give.
I’m grateful to share the story of a woman who has done just that and has a heart for helping others do the same. In this interview, I spoke with author, speaker, and podcaster, Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young about her unexpected journey of loss and grief. Our conversation was very encouraging and is full of practical wisdom to help you embrace grief and connect more deeply with God as you navigate your own seasons of loss and pain.
Click the play button below to listen to our conversation, and find key takeaways immediately below the recording. You can read more about Dorina and find ways to connect in her bio at the end of this interview.
LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW HERE:
If you are grieving a loss or find yourself in a painful season of life, below are a few key takeaways from my conversation with Dorina to encourage you.
Give yourself space to grieve.
Jesus was our example in John 11. He took time to grieve (He wept) with Martha and Mary even though He knew He was about to raise Lazurus from the dead.
Showing up day by day to connect with God is the path to healing.
He doesn’t expect us to “get ourselves together” before we come to Him. He invites us to share our grief and sorrow with Him. He welcomes our questions and our doubts. You won’t ever be over the loss, but over time, healing will come. Your loss is part of a bigger glory story that God is writing.
Practicing being in the presence of the Lord is for today.
It’s hard to quickly put together a practice of being with God when a crisis comes. No matter what you’re going through today, today is a great day to start being in His presence.
Be a glory chaser.
Chase after God’s glory. Look to see how He’s working in every situation, even the hard and painful ones.
Do any of these takeaways resonate with you? If so, leave a comment letting me know. I’d love to hear from you!
About Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young
Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young is a blogger, speaker, podcaster, and author of Walk Run Soar, the award-winning children’s book, Cora Cooks Pancit, and a contributing writer for seven Bible studies. She specializes in helping people navigate grief and flourish in community. Dorina has served as a journalist, missionary, social entrepreneur, and Bible study teacher. She and her husband, Shawn, are raising three brave daughters in Central California. You can connect with her at www.DorinaGilmore.com.
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