Ephesians 4:29 English Standard Version (ESV) Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Looking to the Word for answers we may find we have questions that are not answered directly and need more study. One in particular comes to mind in today’s verse of the day.

“As fits the occasion” is open ended advice. At this reading my thoughts went to an awkward moment in my own life when words of comfort failed me. That was at my wife’s funeral.

I found no comfort in platitudes and common phrases we all hear way too often. 

My condolences didn’t cut through the pain.

I am sorry for your loss held no sincerity.

She’s in a better place only added to the pain.

Mark 16:10 English Standard Version (ESV) She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept.

Only my son wept with me and in our grief the Holy Spirit came to us like a soothing breeze, not taking away our pain, but making it bearable. My son said “I felt that.”

His words still echo through my memories today, eighteen years later. We shared something extraordinary at a moment when no one else could touch our pain. It was a God moment I will never forget.

Matthew 5:4 English Standard Version (ESV) Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

God has an answer for every awkward moment.