Dealing With Tragedy

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Psalm 46:1 

For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Do not fear, I will help you.”  

Isaiah 41:13 Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 

Our nation has just had a horrible tragedy.  Thirty-two people have died and many others have been wounded because of a shooting at Virginia Tech.  If you’re like me, you’ve been very upset and disturbed by this event.  You probably have a lot of questions about what happened, why it happened, and if it could have been prevented.  We will never have all the answers.  We don’t need to.  Only God knows the answers. 

Here are some thoughts on how to deal with this or ANY tragedy:

·        PRAY:

-For those who have lost loved ones and are grieving, that they will be comforted.    

-For those who have been injured in any way:  physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually.    That they will be healed.       

-That some good will come from it.  That we will learn from this tragedy and maybe prevent    similar ones from happening in the future.

·        Don’t dwell on the news; don’t spend all your time thinking about it.

·        Try to focus on the positive; there were many stories of heroism. 

·        Reach out to others.  If you know someone who has been deeply affected by this event, talk to them.  If they need professional help, please encourage them to seek it.

·        If you are personally suffering from this or any tragedy, please talk to someone about it.  You can talk to a doctor, a pastor or other clergy, a counselor, or any trained professional.  Help is available.  Please seek it out.  You do NOT have to suffer alone!!! 

Just remember that God loves us, is always with us and will always help us.  Even in the midst of tragedy; especially in the midst of tragedy. 

Dear God, As always, we thank You for Your many blessings.  We know that You are always with us.  We know that You are the great healer.  Heal and comfort those who have lost loved ones and who are grieving.  Heal those who have been injured in any way.  Help our nation to heal from this tragedy.  In Jesus’ name we pray.  Amen