In going through our pain, trauma and grief of unexpectedly losing our son and brother Aaron, we have had to support one another in many ways. Initially, it was very difficult for us to find specific information on losing a child or sibling. Therefore, we’ve included this resources page to help others going through a similar journey in life.

The Bible teaches us in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (NLT)2: And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.

Reading Christian books on bereavement and grief has brought us some understanding and comfort. These are some books we’ve read, and we continue to read others:

• Seasons of Sorrow, the pain of loss and the comfort of God by Tim Challies

• 52-Week Devotional Journal for Grief, Prompts and Prayers for Navigating Loss by Debbra Sell Bronstad

• Hope in the eleventh hour, A Mother’s Journey through Grief with Eternal Eyes by Sarah B. Berger

• For All Who Grieve, Navigating the Valley of Sorrow and Loss by Colin S. Smith

• Hope for Hurting Hearts by Greg Laurie

• A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis

• To Heaven and Back by Mary C. Neal

• Confessions of a Grieving Christian by Zig Ziglar

Coping with grief can be very challenging. But we’ve found solace in other ways too, such as through various support groups, counselling, welcoming friends’ and families’ visits, church, going for walks, visiting new places, etc.

A Bible verse precious to us is Psalm 139:16 (NIV)1:  

Your eyes saw my unformed body;
    all the days ordained for me were written in your book
    before one of them came to be.

Losing a child or sibling is an unimaginable, deeply painful experience and finding support as a Christian family is crucial. These resources may offer some comfort, guidance and community for parents, siblings, and families dealing with the loss of a loved one.