Cheryl knew immediately why God had led her to this class. Her own past loss and circumstances mirrored this young mother’s current trial. As soon as the class ended, she approached her and introduced herself. The widow’s name was Tammy.

“Tammy, my husband also died unexpectedly when my children were young. I’d love to spend some time with you and find out how you’re doing. I can also share how God carried me through those sad, hard days. Maybe we can get together sometime soon.”

The death of a spouse is a shattering loss. When young children are also left fatherless, a mother’s healthy grieving is often complicated by increased responsibilities, urgent decisions, and the need to cope with parenting under pressure. Wrestling with God’s will and purposes is a normal part of the process.

For a young widow the gift of loving friendships and a supportive family can make all the difference in a gradual and healthy recovery toward a hope-filled future. But the greatest resource of all is knowing that widows have God’s attention. He is not offended by their questions and will bring comfort in the pain. And when the healing has happened, God can use us to speak His hope to others.