Crying is a natural human emotion, and the Bible acknowledges it. So, if you’re wondering whether it’s okay to cry, the short answer is yes, the Bible allows it. In fact, it shows us that even great figures like Jesus shed tears. If you want to know more about what the Bible says about crying, keep reading.
Curious about whether the Bible supports shedding tears or if it frowns upon it? Let’s dive into what the Scriptures have to say about this human expression of emotion. You might be surprised by what you discover!
What Does the Bible Say About Crying?
The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom and guidance, and it has a lot to say about crying. It’s not just a book of rules and commandments; it also touches on the emotional aspects of our lives.
First and foremost, the Bible reminds us that Jesus himself cried. In one of the most famous verses, John 11:35, it simply says, “Jesus wept.” This short verse packs a powerful message – it shows that Jesus, the Son of God, fully understood and experienced human emotions, including sadness. It’s a comforting thought to know that our Savior empathizes with our tears.
Moreover, the Bible tells us that there’s a time for everything, including a time to weep and a time to laugh (Ecclesiastes 3:4). This passage reminds us that crying is a natural part of life, just as laughter is. We shouldn’t be ashamed of our tears; they are an expression of our humanity.
In the New Testament, we also see verses like Romans 12:15, which encourages us to “rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” This verse highlights the importance of empathy and solidarity with others when they are going through difficult times, which often involve tears.
Furthermore, God’s view on crying is not one of condemnation but of understanding. He knows that life can be tough, and tears are sometimes the only way to release our pain and sorrow. The Psalms are full of passages where the psalmists pour out their hearts to God, weeping and seeking His comfort and help.
So, if you’ve ever wondered whether it’s okay to cry, the Bible’s answer is a resounding yes. It’s a healthy and natural way to process our emotions, and it’s something that even Jesus did.
Bible Verses About Crying
- Psalm 30:5 – “For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” This verse reminds us that even in our moments of weeping, there is hope for joy.
- Psalm 56:8 – “You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.” This verse beautifully illustrates God’s care and concern for our tears.
- 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” This passage reminds us that God comforts us in our times of sorrow, and we can share that comfort with others.
- Psalm 34:17-18 – “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” These verses assure us that God is near to those who are hurting and crying out to Him.
- Isaiah 53:3 – “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces, he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.” This verse speaks of the suffering and pain that Jesus experienced during His earthly life, emphasizing His understanding of our sorrows.
The Bible is filled with verses that acknowledge and validate the act of crying. It’s a testament to the fact that our emotions, including our tears, are part of God’s design for us. So, the next time you find yourself shedding tears, remember that it’s perfectly allowed and even understood in the eyes of God.