Anchored

INTRODUCTION

Dear Friend,

I don’t know the particular circumstances that have caused you to pick up this book, but I can only imagine that in some way you have been touched by pregnancy or infant loss. It is a profound grief, and I mourn with you.

My firstborn, Gwendolyn, went to be with Jesus just thirty-six hours after she was born. Letting go of her was the most excruciating event of my life, and it left me with a shattered heart. I was confused and distraught; I was without a “plan.” Everything I had hoped for had been stripped away.

A verse from 2 Timothy reverberated within my heart as I sat in the hospital bed, shell-shocked by my circumstances. “For I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me” (2 Timothy 1:12 ESV). I knew that God was still the same God from forty-eight hours ago when she was alive and well within my womb. But I was lost in grief, feeling alone and unsure how to relate to a God that allowed my infant daughter to die.

In the days, weeks, and months following her heaven-going, the Lord surrounded me with an encouraging group of women who had also experienced loss. Together we pressed in to God’s Word and to each other. Hope Mommies was formed so that every grieving mom would have a safe group that could empathize with her and point her toward hope. This book is a culmination of the questions and comforts of these Hope Moms as we brought our raw grief and our requests before God, waiting on Him to answer.

This book works from the inside out. It begins with evaluating our understanding of God and His Word, His heaven, and the hope He offers us. Then it addresses the hard and tangible questions, such as these: How can I trust God again? How do I handle envy? How can I relate to my spouse? How can I interact with the non-grieving world around me? Each chapter offers you a chance to engage with God’s Word and study it for yourself, and each chapter gives you space to journal your response. Precious stories from fellow Hope Moms are included, and I hope that you will find comfort knowing that you are not alone in your grief; you are journeying alongside many brave women as you inch your way toward eternity.

Whether you have never picked up a Bible or are well versed in the Scriptures, working through these questions can give encouragement, hope, and wisdom. God’s Word is always fruitful and accomplishes His goal for those who read it (Isaiah 55:10–11). This book has been written to be used individually or with a small group, and a “Leader’s Guide” is in the back to help assist with group discussions.

I’m praying that as you open this book and read the Bible alongside it, you will find truth and hope. Romans 5:5 says that a hope founded upon the love of God and salvation from God will not disappoint us. Knowing Him will change your life and will restore your hope and joy. I’m praying that this study will enable you to draw closer to His heart so that you will know Him and find comfort for your weary soul as you lean upon Him. Because He lives, I hope.

Erin Cushman

Hope Mommies founder