One thing I would say to people as you're thinking about trying to be a good friend or good family member to someone who's grieving is be willing to talk about it.

Say that person's name. Go ahead and voice the fact that you feel really sad that that person is not there with you this year.

Sometimes we think, well, I don't

want to mention it because maybe you see that person at a holiday gathering and they seem happy

and you think I don't want to make them sad and you think they must not be thinking about it

and I don't want to make them think about it, maybe make them cry. The thing is here, they are

always thinking about it. Welcome to the Crossway Podcast, a show where we sit down with authors each week for thoughtful

interviews about the Bible, theology, church history, and the Christian life.

I'm Matt Tully, and today I'm talking with Nancy Guthrie.

Nancy teaches the Bible to women at her church, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church in Franklin, Tennessee,

and at conferences worldwide.

She and her husband David are the co-hosts of the Grief Share video series, used in more than 10,000

churches nationwide, and also host respite retreats for couples who have experienced the death of a child.

She's also the host of Help Me Teach the Bible, a podcast from the Gospel Coalition,

and the author of numerous

books including What Grieving People Wish You Knew about what really helps and what really

hurts with Crossway.

Today, Nancy and I discuss dealing with grief over the holidays.

She reflects on her own experiences of great loss and suffering, shares what God has taught

her about his healing grace in her own life,

and offers advice to family members and friends, eager to love and care for those struggling

with deep sadness this holiday season. Let's get started.

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