cryWhy cry? Did you know there are at least three biblical reasons for tears. And remember, as the apostle John records,

Jesus wept. John 11:35, ESV

In this shortest verse in the bible, did God reveal weak-kneed fraility? Not at all. Rather, he showed deep compassion for his friends, whose brother Lazarus had died, and he expressed his emotion through his tears.

In this short article, learn three biblical reasons for tears:

  1. Tears expression honest emotion.
  2. God commands you to cry at certain times.
  3. Crying is good for you.

Just as important, know that in heaven there is no need crying.

1. Expess Honest Emotion

Tears provide a healthy outlet for how we feel inside. They are not a sign of weakness. Rather, they are an honest expression of emotion. But do keep in mind that sometimes tears are misused. Instead of expessing honest emotion, a person may use tears in order to manipulate. Of course, any form of manipuation is wrong. Manipulation is controlling and ungodly behavior.

But your honest-to-God tears? These God keeps in a bottle as if they are precious to Him.

You have kept count of my tossings;
    put my tears in your bottle.
    Are they not in your book? Psalms 56:8

Jesus welcomes honest emotion. Here are two extraordinary examples.

UNNAMED WOMAN: When an unnamed woman washed Jesus’ feet with her tears, he commended her.

Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet.” Luke 7:44-45

DAUGHTERS OF JERUSALEM: As Jesus was led to the cross, the daughters of Jerusalem wept. Jesus told them not to cry for him (who left no progedy), but for themselves and others. Read Luke 23:28-31.

2. God Commands Tears

There are indeed appropriate occasions to cry. Some are:

  • Grief, tears for mourning (Genesis 23:2, 2 Samuel 1:12)
  • Sadness, a natural outpouring of sorrow (1 Samuel 30:4)
  • Regret, sorrow for sin (Matthew 26:75, James 4:9)
  • Tears of joy (Genesis 50:1)

And God commands that you weep. Check these out:

Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15

Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh. Luke 6:21

Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning. Psalms 30:5

3. Crying Is Good for You!

Scientific evidence indicates that when you shed emotional tears, the body releases stress-relieving endorphins. These chemicals help you feel better and stabilize your moods. Tears also release built-up toxins from emotional stress. Bottled-up emotions can contribute to stress-related diseases such as high blood pressure and heart problems.

Sometimes those who’ve experienced abuse or trauma donʼt feel it is safe to cry. They stuff their thoughts and emotions, and become like a pressure cooker ready to explode. Crying is one way to release the building tension.

There’s NO Crying in Heaven

Your tears are only for a season while you live earth. God promises to wipe away all your tears for eternity. They are not needed in Heaven.

For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd,
    and he will guide them to springs of living water,
and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” Revelation 7:17

Until then, there are rights times cry. So let the tears roll.

Counseling Hope to Your Heart,

Find GOD's Freedom from Anxiety

 Get My FREE Anxiety Helper Pack!

Choice is a wonderful gift from God. You do NOT have to be stuck in self-focused anxiety. You can find God’s freedom.

You have Successfully Subscribed!