The Promise of “After This”
Have you ever felt like your life was falling apart? Like you were stuck in a season of suffering, unsure if things would ever get better?
Job knew that feeling. He lost everything—his family, his health, his security. For thirty-seven chapters, Job endured suffering and struggled to understand why. But his story didn’t end there.
“After this, Job lived a hundred and forty years; he saw his children and their children to the fourth generation.” (Job 42:16, NIV)
There was an “after this” for Job—a season of restoration, healing, and renewed joy.
And if you’re walking through grief, loss, or uncertainty, know that there is an “after this” for you, too.
Holding On in the Middle of Pain
I know what it’s like to walk through a season of grief. When my mom passed away, I struggled to accept that she was no longer around. I had a hard time grappling with the finality of it.
Even though I was upset with God, I still needed Him.
It was a confusing time, full of emotions I didn’t know how to process. But looking back, I can see how God was present—even in the silence, even in my doubts.
It reminds me of Job. His story wasn’t about instant restoration—it was about learning to trust God in suffering.
“Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” (Psalm 30:5, NLT)
That verse became real to me in a new way. I didn’t know when my “morning” would come, but I had to believe that God had more for me than just my pain.
Seeing God in the Healing Process
My “after this” didn’t come overnight. Healing took time. But one of the pivotal moments was when I attended grief recovery classes.
At first, I wasn’t sure if attending would help. But as I sat there, listening to others share their stories, I realized I wasn’t alone.
I didn’t have to carry my pain by myself.
Slowly, I began to see that healing wasn’t about forgetting—it was about learning to live again, with God guiding me forward.
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” (Hebrews 6:10, NIV)
Looking back, I see how grief shaped me. It didn’t break me—it transformed me. I learned how to process loss, how to lean on God in my weakest moments, and how to walk forward without forgetting my mom but also without being consumed by grief.
If you’re in a season of suffering, know this: God is not finished with your story.
Self-Assessment Questions
Reflection is an important part of healing. Take a few minutes to sit in a quiet space and write down your thoughts. These questions aren’t just for reflection—they’re a way to track your journey toward healing.
1. Where do I see God in my current season? Even if you don’t feel His presence, look back—how has He sustained you?
2. What is one step I can take toward healing? Maybe it’s seeking counseling, journaling your prayers, or simply allowing yourself to grieve.
3. How has God used past hardships to shape me? Remember a past difficulty where you saw God bring restoration—this can give you hope for what He will do now.
Final Thoughts: Your “After This” is Coming
The pain you’re experiencing now is not the end of your story.
Just as Job’s suffering didn’t last forever, neither will yours. God has an “after this” for you—a season of restoration, renewed strength, and even joy.
• If you’re walking through grief, hold on.
• If you’re in a season of uncertainty, trust that God is working behind the scenes.
• If you feel like you’ve lost too much, remember that Job’s best years came after his deepest loss.
“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.” (Isaiah 43:2, NLT)
Your “after this” is coming.
“What feels like the end is often the beginning.” — Unknown
A Prayer for Healing and Trust
Father, I come to You with the weight of my struggles. Some days, the pain feels overwhelming, and I don’t understand why things happen the way they do. But I know You are good. I trust that You are working in my life, even in ways I cannot see. Give me the strength to hold on, to wait for my ‘after this,’ and to believe that restoration is coming. Fill my heart with peace, and remind me that You are always near. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
© 2025 Amelie Chambord
Soul Path Insights 
Leave a comment