Grief and sorrow are a part of life, and the Bible teaches believers to support, comfort, and mourn with those who are grieving. One of the most well-known verses on this topic is Romans 12:15, which says:
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” (Romans 12:15, NIV)
This verse highlights the importance of empathy, compassion, and unity within the Christian community. Mourning with others is not just about offering words of comfort—it’s about being present, understanding their pain, and sharing their burden.
In this topic, we will explore key Bible verses about mourning with those who mourn, their meanings, and how we can apply them in our daily lives.
1. The Biblical Command to Mourn with Others
1.1 Romans 12:15 – A Call to Compassion
The Apostle Paul, in Romans 12:15, encourages believers to be emotionally connected with others. This means that:
- When someone is joyful, we should celebrate with them.
- When someone is grieving, we should grieve alongside them.
This teaches us that Christian love is not self-centered—it involves being deeply involved in the joys and sorrows of others.
1.2 Job’s Friends and Their Initial Mourning
One of the most powerful examples of mourning with the grieving is found in the story of Job. After Job lost his children, wealth, and health, his friends came to comfort him:
“When they saw him from a distance, they could hardly recognize him; they began to weep aloud, and they tore their robes and sprinkled dust on their heads. Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights. No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was.” (Job 2:12-13, NIV)
Job’s friends initially did something very important—they mourned in silence. This teaches us that sometimes, being present is more powerful than words.
2. Jesus as the Perfect Example of Mourning with Others
2.1 Jesus Weeping at Lazarus’ Death
One of the shortest yet most profound verses in the Bible is John 11:35:
“Jesus wept.” (John 11:35, NIV)
Jesus did not weep because He lacked faith—He knew He would raise Lazarus from the dead. Instead, He wept because He saw the pain of others. He was deeply moved by the sorrow of Mary, Martha, and the mourners around Him.
This shows us that mourning with others is an act of love and compassion, even when we have hope in God’s greater plan.
2.2 Jesus’ Teaching on Comforting the Brokenhearted
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus reassures those who grieve:
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4, NIV)
This verse reminds us that God sees our sorrow and promises comfort. As Christians, we are called to be part of that comforting presence in others’ lives.
3. The Role of the Church in Mourning with Others
3.1 Carrying Each Other’s Burdens
Paul emphasizes the importance of supporting one another in times of sorrow:
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, NIV)
Mourning with others is not just a suggestion—it is part of fulfilling Christ’s command to love one another.
3.2 Encouraging One Another
The Bible repeatedly reminds us to offer encouragement and strength:
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV)
When someone is grieving, our role is not to fix their pain but to walk with them through it, offering love and encouragement.
4. Practical Ways to Mourn with Those Who Mourn
4.1 Be Present and Listen
Sometimes, the best way to comfort someone is simply to be there. Just like Job’s friends sat with him in silence, we should:
- Offer a listening ear without trying to give solutions.
- Allow them to express their grief without judgment.
4.2 Offer Prayers and Encouragement
Praying for and with someone who is grieving can bring deep comfort. You can share encouraging verses like:
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18, NIV)
4.3 Provide Practical Help
Grief can make daily tasks feel overwhelming. Consider:
- Bringing meals
- Helping with errands
- Offering childcare or other support
These small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
5. God’s Promise of Comfort to the Mourning
5.1 God Will Wipe Away Every Tear
For those who trust in God, there is a future where mourning will end:
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:4, NIV)
This verse gives us hope that God’s ultimate plan includes eternal comfort and joy.
5.2 The Holy Spirit as Our Comforter
Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would be with us in times of sorrow:
“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth.” (John 14:16-17, NIV)
Even in our deepest grief, God’s presence is near, giving peace beyond understanding.
Mourning with those who mourn is not just an act of kindness—it is a biblical command and a reflection of God’s love. Through verses like Romans 12:15, John 11:35, and Matthew 5:4, we learn that:
✅ Jesus Himself mourned with others, showing deep compassion.
✅ The Church is called to bear one another’s burdens.
✅ God promises comfort to those who are brokenhearted.
In times of sorrow, we are called to be God’s hands and feet, offering love, support, and encouragement. By doing so, we reflect the heart of Christ and bring His peace to those who grieve.