Title: Overcoming Five Stages of Grief with God
Author: Melissa Murgo
Publicist: Title Pitch Media
ISBN: 9798887384375
Pages: 42
Genre: Religion / Self-Help / Relationships
Reviewed by: Lily Amanda

Read Book Review

“When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing”- James 1:2-4.

Grief is a prevalent and inescapable element of human life.  Grief can be by the death of a beloved one, job loss, or any other experience which causes substantial anguish and torment. Grief can be devastating, and it may take a long duration to overcome. However, grief is also a process of growth, development, and self-discovery. Overcoming Five Stages of Grief with God is a straightforward yet profound text written by Melissa Murgo that delves into a deeply personal and spiritual terrain uncovering complex themes such as grief, the five stages of overcoming it, and eventual healing through God’s help and strength.

With intense self-reflection, unflinching honesty and courage, Melissa allows readers into her life as she explores her own experience with grief after losing her grandmother during the pandemic and dealing with a divorce. The grief, she narrates, struck her unexpectedly with feelings of despair and hopelessness engulfing her, and it is through therapy and faith in God that she managed to weather the storm. The text is divided into eight chapters which aptly build upon each other as they tackle the five stages of overcoming grief which include: depression, acceptance, and rebirth. The last chapter of the book provides a collection of scriptures compiled to help you through those thoughts and feelings that can often time overwhelm us.

Combining essential life examples from Biblical matriarchs and patriarchs such as Moses, Mary, Eve, Hannah, Peter, and many more, the author provides practical and pastoral advice to help Christians rest their pain and suffering in Christ’s hands and invite Him into each step of grief. Melissa has done a great service by providing a balm packed with precious nuggets for the grieving, those in need of counsel, and caretakers that are intended to go a long way.

Indeed, Overcoming Five Stages of Grief with God is a life-affirming guide which does not overstay its welcome. It is undeniably a warm companion for those who feel trapped in a forest of grief.