I would like to share with you some ways which have helped me enormously over the last several years to cope with devastating loss such as this. The process has been extremely painful and incredibly difficult at times. From shock and initial survival, to picking up the pieces, through to the most amazing peace and blessings of an even stronger focus and relationship with God I never knew was possible.

As a parent we can imagine how hard it would be to see our child make unwise choices. Beginning in Luke 15:11 we can read of the prodigal son. This example has been set so that we can learn from poor choices of what seemed right to him at the time. These choices seemed fun and exciting but cost the prodigal son everything he had including his dignity and well being. He was far from his family with no plans for the future. Eventually hard times came and he found himself alone and destitute. Poor, filthy, and starving, he realized he would be much better off at home again amongst loved ones where he was provided for. The son eventually returned and was willing to come back, even as a servant in his father’s house! However his father, rather than scolding him, fully restored him as his son, and made merry with a feast as his jubilation was so great!

This account had a happy ending. As a parent, there is much worry, stress and fear in whether a child will return willingly before it’s too late. We tend to think of all the negative possibilities that could occur based on their friendships, and to those whom they look up to as their role models — some we may find highly questionable. We can’t help but wonder what will happen when we are not around to protect them, foreseeing that the poor choices they make could damage their lives significantly.

This is where we, as parents, need to establish even stronger bonds to our Creator. How do we do this when the reality may be that there will be days when we are tired, when it all seems too hard, when exhaustion sets in, or we may just want to take the easy option to keep the peace amongst family members?

Notice Matthew 11:28-29 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls”.

This is where we can really impact or make a difference to our children. Set the very best example by showing strong moral character aligned with Christ our elder Brother. Honour God through daily heartfelt prayer and regular fasting to strengthen our lifeline and remain close to Him. Include time for meditation and involvement to be still and listen to God’s voice (Psalm 46:10-11). Never compromise in thought, word, or deed, that which may be perceived as hypocritical. Emulate Christ’s example of compassion each and every day towards your child no matter how much you feel hurt, angry, frustrated or betrayed.

I can't promise you that there won't be times of sadness or dismay. What I can say though, is that God can build your faith to the point you will truly marvel (Psalm 27:13-14). He will go through all your pain and suffering with you, if you open up and allow Him. God will hear your plight when you bare your inner heart to Him and He will rescue you from your deep distress. I urge you too to make this choice as you will know for yourself His greatness and goodness!