Sometimes, we’re the one that stays behind. Sometimes, we’re the one that leaves. Maybe we’re the one who remains while our loved one moves on. Or maybe we’re the one sailing into uncharted territory while those we love stay moored to shore.
Regardless of how we find ourselves separated from our loved ones, the feeling of missing someone is one that we can all relate to. Separation, loneliness, and grief have touched all of our lives. Even Our Lord knew what it was like to need the comfort of His friends (Matthew 26:36-38)!
Scripture Verses to Pray When You're Missing Someone
When you inevitably find yourself in this situation, when your heart is heavy and you are in need of comfort, turn to the Lord! Look to His Word and know that you are not alone.
In Times of Separation
The first summer my kids went to stay with my in-laws for what they affectionately called “Camp GrammyGrandpa,” I missed them terribly! They were gone for a whole week and I wasn’t sure what to do without my little appendages hanging around all the time.
Sometimes, though, we experience separations that are longer. There are business trips, deployments, kids leaving for college, and friends that move away. I’ve even suffered missing a friend who went back to work full-time after we had been stay-at-home moms together!
When time or distance come between you and someone you love, it is good to pray for yourself and for the other person. Maybe you will find these gems from Scripture to be helpful.
// “...for he said: 'May the Lord keep watch between you and me when we are out of each other’s sight.'” Genesis 31:49
// “Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.“ Hebrews 11:1
// “Be strong and steadfast; have no fear or dread of them, for it is the Lord, your God, who marches with you; he will never fail you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
// “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
// “For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:8
// “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27
In Times of Loneliness
Some of the loneliest times of my life happened when I was missing not just someone, but something. I remember being a homesick college student who missed her family and her familiar surroundings. Then, as I transitioned out of my full-time job to stay home with my son, I missed my coworkers, my students, and frankly, life as I had known it.
When you find yourself feeling lonely, try to spend some time with the Lord, reflecting on His Word for your life.
// “Do not fear: I am with you; do not be anxious: I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
// “You are my salvation; do not cast me off; do not forsake me, God my savior! Even if my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will take me in.“ Psalm 27:10
// “Comfort, give comfort to my people, says your God.“ Isaiah 40:1
// “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20
In Times of Grief
Whether we’ve known and loved someone well for decades, or have just felt the promise of life starting within our bodies, we grieve their passing. There is a finality we feel when we miss someone who has died, even though we know we hold the promise of eternal life in God, Our Father. Heaven can seem very far away for someone whose heart is hurting.
Know, sisters, that we are not alone in our grief. Jesus wept at the death of Lazarus. The Saints, too, are no stranger to loss. Instead, cling to the hope offered to us by the Communion of Saints in Heaven and believe that you will see the one you love again.
In the meantime, perhaps cling to these verses from Scripture, too.
// “And Jesus wept.” John 11:35
// “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, [for] the old order has passed away.” Revelation 21:4
// “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. Where I am going you know the way.” John 14:1-4
// “He will destroy death forever. The Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from all faces. The reproach of his people he will remove from the whole earth; for the LORD has spoken.” Isaiah 25:8
// “So you also are now in anguish. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” John 16:22
An Age-Old Blessing
Last, but certainly not least is a blessing we can pray over our loved ones no matter how far away they are. It’s one that the Irish Blessing is based on and it dates back to the days of Moses.
My family has prayed and sung it together for years and years. It always makes us feel closer to one another, despite being spread out all over the country and the world. May it bring you peace, as it has me.
The LORD bless you and keep you! The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace! -Numbers 6:24-26
What Scripture verse gives you comfort when you are missing someone?
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Beth Williby is a mom of four pretty amazing humans and has been married to her college sweetheart for twenty years. She does her best praying through singing and feeding the people she loves. Having grown up in the Midwest, she now calls Northeast Florida home. You can find out more about her here. Read all of Beth's posts here.
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