Preaching on Sadness in the Bible

Sadness in the Bible

A somber, yet essential aspect of the human experience as revealed in the scriptures: sadness. While the Bible speaks powerfully of joy, it does not shy away from the reality of sorrow. Today, we delve into the biblical understanding of sadness, its origins, its manifestations, and the hope that sustains us through it.

Examples

For Jacob, Gen. 50:10.
For Jephthah's daughter, Judg. 11:40.
For King Saul, 2 Sam. 1:17.
For Josiah, 2 Chr. 35:25.
For the Jews, Esther 4:1.
For the innocents murdered, Matt. 2:18.
For Christ, Luke 23:27.
For Stephen, Acts 8:2.

1. The Origin of Sadness in the Fall of Man (Genesis 3:16)

“And to the woman he said, I will greatly multiply your sorrow in childbearing; in sorrow you shall bring forth children; and your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.” Sadness and suffering entered the world as a consequence of sin, a rupture in our relationship with God. The separation from our Creator brought pain and sorrow into the human experience.

2. Laughter Can Hide Sadness (Proverbs 14:13)

“Even in laughter the heart is in pain, and the end of mirth is heaviness.” Many people wear a mask of joy, concealing the sadness that dwells within. The world’s fleeting pleasures cannot provide lasting comfort. Only God can bring genuine joy and heal the broken heart.

3. A Sad Heart Reflects on the Face (Proverbs 15:13)

“A cheerful heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.” Sadness is not merely an internal state; it manifests outwardly, affecting our entire being. Seeking God’s presence renews the soul and brings hope, transforming our countenance.

4. Jesus: The Man of Sorrows (Isaiah 53:3)

“He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.” Jesus, our Savior, understands our pain because He Himself experienced sorrow and rejection. He walked the path of grief to redeem us, and He strengthens us in our own times of sorrow.

5. Sorrow Can Fill the Heart (John 16:6)

“But because I have told you these things, your hearts have been filled with sorrow.” The disciples were filled with sorrow at the prospect of Jesus’s departure. Yet, Jesus promised that their sorrow would turn to joy. The sorrow of the righteous, though deep, is not without hope.

6. Deep Sorrow and Suffering of the Soul (Psalm 102:4)

“My heart is wounded and withered like grass, so that I forget to eat my bread.” David expressed the profound anguish of his soul before God. Sincere prayer is a powerful way to alleviate suffering, a means of pouring out our hearts to the One who understands.

7. The Sorrow of Oppression and Affliction (Psalm 109:22)

“For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me.” Sorrow can arise from persecution and injustice, from the weight of oppression. God is the safe refuge for the oppressed, the defender of the vulnerable.

8. The Cup of Sorrow and Desolation (Ezekiel 23:33)

“You will be filled with drunkenness and sorrow, with the cup of desolation and destruction, with the cup of your sister Samaria.” Sin leads to a cup of sorrow, a desolation that consumes the soul. But in God, there is restoration, forgiveness, and a new beginning.

9. Sorrow and Suffering in the Last Days (Matthew 24:7)

“For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.” The world will face difficult times, bringing sorrow and tribulation. Faith in Christ keeps us strong in the face of these trials, anchoring us in the hope of His return.

10. The Disciples' Sorrow and the Hope of Salvation (Matthew 26:22, Mark 14:19, Acts 20:38, 1 Corinthians 7:30)

“And they were exceedingly sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?” “And they were exceedingly sorrowful for the word which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.” “And those who weep, as though they did not weep; and those who rejoice, as though they did not rejoice; and those who buy, as though they did not possess.” Sadness is an inevitable part of the Christian journey, but hope in Christ strengthens us. We are not defined by our sorrows, but by the eternal joy promised to those who persevere in faith.

Let us acknowledge the reality of sadness, but let us also remember that God is our comfort, our strength, and our hope. In Him, we find solace, healing, and the promise of eternal joy. Amen.