Relevant Bible account(s):

• Ru 1:11-13, 20​—Widowed and grieving the death of her two sons, Naomi feels that Jehovah has abandoned her

• Job 3:1, 11, 25, 26; 10:1​—Job is embittered after losing his wealth, his ten children, and his health

Comforting scriptures:

• Ro 12:19; Jas 1:13

Comforting Bible account(s):

• Ru 1:6, 7, 16-18; 2:2, 19, 20; 3:1; 4:14-16​—Naomi draws closer to God’s people and accepts and gives loving help, after which her bitterness is replaced with joy

• Job 42:7-16; Jas 5:11​—Job endures in faith, and Jehovah blesses him greatly

Comforting Bible account(s):

• 1Sa 1:9-11, 18​—After Hannah pours out her heart to Jehovah, her pain eases

• Job 42:7, 8, 10, 17​—After Job shows a forgiving spirit, Jehovah restores him to health and happiness

Comforting Bible account(s):

• 2Ch 33:9-13, 15, 16​—Manasseh is among the worst of all the kings of Judah; yet, he repents and is granted mercy

• Lu 15:11-32​—Jesus relates the parable of the lost son to illustrate how generously and completely Jehovah forgives

Comforting Bible account(s):

• 2Sa 17:27-29; 19:31-38​—Loyal Barzillai is highly valued, but he modestly refuses an assignment that he feels is too much for him in his old age

• Ps 41:1-3, 12​—Though King David may be seriously ill, he counts on Jehovah to sustain him

• Mr 12:41-44​—Jesus praises a poor widow for her contribution because she gives all she has