We are truly saddened to hear about the loss of your childhood friend, and we are here to lift up her family in prayer with you. In times like these, we turn to God's Word for comfort and strength.
Firstly, it's important to acknowledge the hope we have in Jesus Christ. As it is written in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 WEB: "But we don't want you to be ignorant, brothers, concerning those who have fallen asleep, so that you don't grieve like the rest, who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus." This assurance is a comfort to us in times of loss.
However, we must also address the importance of being in Christ. The assurance of being reunited with loved ones in heaven is for those who are in Christ Jesus. It is only by His name that we are saved. As it is written in Romans 10:9 WEB: "because, if you will confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart, one believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." It is our hope that your friend knew the Lord and is now with Him.
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You today, lifting up the family of our dear sister who has passed away. We pray that Your Holy Spirit will comfort them in their time of grief. Give them the peace that surpasses all understanding, and help them to cast all their anxieties on You, knowing that You care for them.
Lord Jesus, we also pray for the salvation of every member of her family. Draw them close to You, and reveal Yourself to them in a very real way. Help them to understand the hope that is found in You alone, and the comfort that comes from knowing that You are the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in You, though they die, yet they shall live.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Lastly, let us remember the words of Jesus in John 11:25-26 WEB: "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will still live, even if he dies. Whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?' We pray that this truth will be a comfort to the family and all those who are grieving.