Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation.

Today, Darla Czeropski shares her thoughts on grief, and loving God with all your heart.

In Mark 12:30, it says: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” Mark 12:30 NIV

Have you received some news you knew would change the trajectory of your life? Your feelings are all over the place as you go through the paces, pray a lot, and hope you can handle the outcome.

When my father was told he had Alzheimer's, I had no idea what to expect. I knew I would stand by him and help my mom make the hard decisions. When I then realized my mom also had Alzheimer's, it was overwhelming. I resolved to stay strong, pushing my feelings down and doing what was needed to make everyone okay.

With Alzheimer’s, grief begins years before the person passes away. You grieve each time you know they forgot a piece of themselves and eventually forget you.

In grieving moments, I find one truth. I need God more than ever, and He uses my struggle to draw me close.

On one occasion, I was so distraught that I uncontrollably wept before God. My heart was broken. When I finally calmed down, a question pushed through the chaos in my mind. “Darla, do you love me?” I responded, “Yes, Lord, you know I do.”

Peter had a similar conversation with Jesus in John chapter 21. Despite seeing Jesus after the resurrection, he still grieved. He loved Jesus with all his heart and missed daily walks, hearing Jesus’ laughter, and the hugs of greeting.

In John 21:3 (TPT), “Peter told them, “I’m going fishing.” And they all replied, “We’ll go with you.” It’s no surprise that in his grief, Peter decided to go to the place where he first met Jesus—where his life had radically changed.

Guess who showed up? Jesus met Peter on the shore and taught him an important lesson. Even though your heart is grieving – keep casting. Jesus didn’t tell us to cover up our feelings and pretend they don’t hurt. No. He told Peter to keep casting.

Loving Jesus with all your heart brings healing. When we go to the place where we spend time with the Lord, pour out our feelings, and allow Him to fill us up, we receive help in our time of need.

In grief, like Peter, we are encouraged to keep casting. Don’t give up! Spread your net wide and allow others to encourage you. Is this the moment you need to get alone with God and give your hurts to Him? If so, share with us your favorite place to spend time with Jesus. Perhaps it’s time to take a fishing trip.

Thank you for joining us today. If you would like to learn more about OhSoFree Ministries, please visit us at www.ohsofreeministries.com/