Six years ago, when Christine passed away, I never imagined I would write a grief devotional. I wasn't looking to become a grief coach, start a grief podcast, or build a ministry around loss. I was simply trying to survive.

In this episode, I share the unexpected story behind NEXT: Lamentations and Devotions and why it exists. What began as private journal entries, prayers, questions, and laments slowly became something much bigger than I ever intended.

Along the way, I discovered that grief isn't a problem to solve—it's a relationship to learn. A relationship with loss, memory, change, and ultimately, with God Himself.

I'll also share my original song, My Grief Song, and talk about why permission—not perfection—has become one of the most important themes of my grief journey.

If you've ever wondered whether you're grieving ”the right way,” this episode is for you.

In this episode:

• Why I never intended to write a grief devotional

• How journaling became a lifeline after loss

• The importance of lament and honest conversations with God

• Why grieving people need permission more than answers

• The meaning behind the Selah and Grief Examen sections of the devotional

• How God's goodness remains present in the middle of sorrow

”I didn't write this because I had figured grief out. I wrote it because I was grieving.”

Find out more about me here: www.jaycookingham.com

I’m on @buymeacoffee. If you like, even maybe love my podcast, you can buy me a coffee and support me. It’s a simple way of showing your support and helping me grow the podcast. Thank you!

Here’s the link: buymeacoffee.com/jcdude56t

Podcast Music by Paul Grimsland

Grief Song written by Jay Cookingham used with (mine) his permission.

Buy NEXT: Lamentations and Devotions her: https://a.co/d/0g8K8kVT