In this deeply compassionate episode, I sit down with Dr. Jerry Woodbridge—a Christian author, grief advocate, and educator—to explore the complex journey of grieving with faith, honesty, and hope.

What You’ll Discover

• Grief isn’t linear. Dr. Woodbridge likens it to “having a thousand hornets around your head” or bouncing on a trampoline while climbing stairs—progress, setbacks, repeat.
• Identity after loss. The unexpected transition into widowhood isn’t a choice anyone makes. Dr. Woodbridge reflects on how that identity shift challenged both her role and faith.
• Children and grief. Kids aren’t little adults. Dr. Woodbridge explains how avoiding their grief can lead to long-term emotional struggles, and how stories can offer healing validation.
• Writing to heal and help. Through her faith-based children’s book Joy Overcame Sorrow, she gives young readers—and the adults who love them—language and solace in the midst of loss.
• Metaphor of sorrow and joy. She shares a beautiful visual: “Both sorrow and joy can coexist like liquids in a coffee cup, with love bridging the gap. We grieve because we love—and that same love makes room for joy, even alongside the sadness.”

Why Listen

This episode is a sanctuary for anyone walking with grief—or alongside someone who is. Whether you’re a parent, friend, pastor, or caregiver, Dr. Woodbridge’s insight is balm for the wounded heart.

Learn More About Dr. Jerry Woodbridge

Visit her website to explore her books, helpful resources, and connect with her directly: drjerrylwoodbridge.com

Related Content

Be sure to check out episodes 29 through 36, an eight-part summer series where I share my journey through grief, how I met Christ, and how He transformed my life—from the very beginning to a reflection on what living by faith looks like now: Episode 29, Episode 30, Episode 31, Episode 32, Episode 35, Episode 36

Scripture References

These Scriptures were thoughtfully embedded throughout Joy Overcame Sorrow and grouped by theme—perfect for personal meditation or guiding children through grief:

God Sees Every Tear | Psalm 56:8; Psalm 119:28
Trusting in His Care | Luke 12:24; Jeremiah 17:7
Hope for the Future | Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 9:18
Comfort in Mourning | Matthew 5:4; Hebrews 13:8
Joy Restored | Psalm 126:2; Jeremiah 31:12–13; Isaiah 35:10
Peace Within | Proverbs 14:30; Luke 2:46

Reflection Question:

How might God be inviting you to hold both sorrow and joy together in this season of your life?

Call to Action:

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes, and share this episode with someone who may need encouragement today.

Remember: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).

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