Psalm 34:17-18 is such a comfort to me. Jesus tells us that those who are courageous enough to grieve will be blessed and comforted. God draws near to us as we grieve. He is drawn to our vulnerability and suffering. He is here to comfort our broken hearts, soothe our fears, and give us hope. He is merciful to us during this grief process. He will bring us what we need to get through the grief, to get us to a better place emotionally. It is good to know that the Lord is close to the brokenhearted! He does not expect cheerfulness. God is compassionate and responsive. God is close—not far away.