With the recent loss of a dear friend, I couldn’t, and can’t stop feeling somewhat guilty for not having been there for his wife who I am very close too. Geographically, we are miles apart which is part of the problem, however, a memorial service is planned for him in a month, so there will be the opportunity to be there then. I also have some guilt for being so far from many family members and as a result have missed many celebrations, not to mention times when help is needed for support. It’s the here and now, and I know many of us who have moved from place to place over the years have felt the “guilt” for not being there when we feel we should be. We try to be there when we can be and when it is a non-negotiable situation, and how thankful we are for our many sources of communication, but choices were made and we must deal with them the best we can and let go of the guilt. Guilt will only consume you and depress you. You had your reasons for coming to the places you’re in, and for many of us, it was through God’s guidance. I try not to dwell on the guilt, the situation “is what it is” and I know my friend whose husband just pasted is surrounded by many loving friends and family. They too, geographically, were miles away from many family members and friends, so I know the wife understands and would not expect us to come immediately. No matter what, God loves us right where we are, and we need to focus on that love and His grace and His promises of forgiveness and strength.
Hebrews 10:22
Let us draw near to god with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, when guilt begins to consume us for whatever reasons, help us to find the strength to overcome it and learn to forgive ourselves of the guilt we feel as You have forgiven us for so much more. In Your precious name we pray. Amen