Blessed Are Those Who Mourn

Read

Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

Think

In a world that avoids pain at all costs, Jesus’ words seem upside down. Culture tells us to push past grief, numb the sorrow, and move on. But Jesus says those who mourn are blessed. Why? Because mourning isn’t just about sadness—it’s about seeing the world, our sin, and our brokenness as they truly are. It’s about feeling the weight of what’s been lost and turning to the only One who can restore it.

Mourning isn’t weakness; it’s the doorway to comfort. Not the shallow, temporary kind the world offers, but the deep, soul-level healing that only God can give. Theologian Alexander Maclaren calls this a "sacred sorrow"—a grief that leads us into the arms of God. It’s the kind of mourning that doesn’t end in despair but in transformation. When we grieve our sin, we find grace. When we bring our broken hearts to Jesus, we find healing. When we weep over injustice, we move toward action.

But here’s the paradox: we can only be comforted when we stop pretending we don’t need it. It’s a holy grief—an ache that leads us to the truth that our hope isn’t in avoiding pain but in God’s presence in the midst of it.

So what are you holding back today? What pain have you tried to suppress? Jesus isn’t asking you to ignore it—he’s inviting you to bring it to him. Because in the kingdom of God, those who mourn don’t stay in sorrow. They are comforted. They are healed. And they find a joy the world can never take away.

Apply

Worship even in the tears. Mourning and worship can coexist. Play a worship song, sing through the tears, and remind your soul that God is still good, even in the struggle.

Pray

Heavenly Father, I come to you with my sorrow, my struggles, and my questions. I don’t always understand why things happen, but I trust that you are near. Help me to bring my pain to you. Comfort my heart, remind me of your presence, and fill me with the peace that only you can give. Thank you for your promise that mourning won’t last forever and that true joy is found in you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.