(I recently wrote this letter to a family who just lost their young son. I felt that sharing it will be encouraging to us all)
Dear grieving family,
I am writing because I heard of the devastating news of your son’s death and needless to say that I am truly sorry for your loss. Your son was very young, and it was not his time. But sometimes I guess these things happen.
I wanted to write to encourage you because I know that there will be many people telling you that it was God’s will for your son to die, or else he would not have died, because God is “sovereign.” Please do not believe these people. God did not want your son to die at a young age. It is never God’s will for his children to die young (The length of our days is at least 70 or 80 years- Psalms 90:10). But because of this evil world that we live in there are many things that God wants for all of us that will not happen (It is God’s will for none to perish, but repent- yet many will perish 2 Peter 3:9).
With all that said, be encouraged because even what was meant for evil, God can still use for good (Genesis 50:20). I am convinced that the suffering of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory which shall be revealed in us, if you don’t lose heart (Romans 8:18). Keep yourself encouraged! Don’t let the devil even try to deceive you or make you doubt God’s love for you or for your family, because nothing (not even suffering or doubt or despair) can separate you from God’s love (Romans 8:38-39).
I have prayed for you (and your family) and will continue to have faith that during this trying time, you will be sensitive to how good God really is. That you may know how great is the love of Christ (Ephesians 3:18), and that the peace of God which passes all understanding will keep your hearts and mind (Philippians 4:7). Because I know that my God shall indeed supply all your need according to his abundant riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).
I look forward to hearing good news from and about you soon. But until then be encouraged!
Sincerely,
Me