The Oil of Joy: Finding Hope in the Valley of Grief
Grief is not a journey anyone chooses… yet at some point, we all walk through it. For me, grief came crashing into my life the night I lost my wife. The sorrow was overwhelming, and there were moments I couldn’t see how life could continue forward.
But even in the darkest places, I discovered a truth I want to share with you: God meets us in our mourning with His joy.
In Isaiah 61:3, we read that God gives us “the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.” This isn’t about ignoring pain or pretending it doesn’t exist. It’s about experiencing a kind of joy that can only come from His presence… a joy that doesn’t erase sorrow but transforms it into hope.
Joy and Grief Together
Many of us think joy can only arrive once grief has ended. But I’ve learned they can actually walk side by side. Grief may never completely leave, but joy reminds us we are not alone. God’s Spirit is with us, giving strength when we feel weak and lifting us when the weight feels unbearable.
Beauty From Brokenness
The “oil of joy” is also a picture of restoration. Just as oil refreshes and heals, God’s joy can bring renewal in places that feel shattered. It doesn’t mean the loss disappears—it means beauty can rise even from ashes.
Walking Forward With Hope
In Episode 16 of the Rooted for Growth podcast, I share how this truth shaped my own journey through grief. My prayer is that you’ll find encouragement to keep walking, knowing joy and hope are possible even when your heart feels broken.
💌 Free Resource for You
If you’re in a season of grief, I want to give you something that’s been meaningful in my own walk: 7 Prayers for the Grieving Heart. This free guide includes prayers and scriptures for each stage of grief, offering comfort, guidance, and reminders of God’s presence.
