By Trevor Forrester Chaplain. Psalm 8 humbles us under the night sky and honours us under God’s Word: the human creature is finite yet crowned by grace for delegated stewardship that returns to praise.

Facing suffering, especially children’s deaths, critics say Christian blessing is hollow, God does nothing, Scripture sanctifies violence, and faith stifles reason. The Christian reply begins with lament, not denial. Blessing invokes God’s steadfast presence. God acts in Christ’s cross and resurrection, entering pain and pledging restoration. Scripture locates death’s reign with the devil; Christ breaks it. Hard texts like 1 Samuel 15 are contextual and read under Jesus’ enemy-love. Faith renews the mind, seeks understanding, and repents of ignorance. Practically, we lament, accompany the grieving, defend the vulnerable, and hope in resurrection. Blessing promises companionship until tears are wiped away.

Purpose. A pocket guide for compassionate, Scripture-anchored ministry in hospital and home contexts. Adapt language to tradition and context. Protect confidentiality.