“Sometimes God let people die. Let His children break. And then pieced them back together into something new. Something that He could use for His glory instead of theirs.” ― Roseanna M. White, The Number of Love Be careful what you pray for... I am grateful God answers, but it definitely isn't in the manner I would choose. Restoration has proven to be an arduous process. As I was reminded by our weekend project, the job never goes as smoothly or as quickly as imagined. Multiple trips to the hardware store and double the time or more realistically, triple it! In the middle, I often wonder, 'Whose bright idea this was anyway? There wasn't a better/faster/easier way?' As it comes together, I have a greater appreciation for the care each step took to make a sturdy, quality product. But trust and patience seem to be key to this journey called life.
Breaking involves pain. Yet, God is faithful. He lovingly holds our pieces while he puts us back together, - ideally but rarely swiftly - with our cooperation. How gracious that he chooses to love broken people and continues to use us after we fall. We all are hurting, whether we have the clarity to see just how much or not. When a person messes up they usually have company - collateral damage. How fortunate that restoration is Jesus' specialty, and he is well aware of the nature of humankind and how interconnected we become. Entangled even. Today, we are not like before, but with God's help, even better. More honest - with ourselves and with each other. Stronger and more useful after our humbling and healing. Whether self-inflicted or part of the fallout, the promise to use the pain for our good stands firm. Over and over my life has been filled with moments that have brought me to the end of myself. I never thought I would have to schlepp through some of this crap! But each trial has helped to reveal idols I was unaware of in my life. Sometimes, God mercifully shows me glimpses of how He is using the situation to shape my character or someone else He loves. I do my best to journal those insights so when the next hardship comes, I don't lose my peace. One of life's repetitious lessons is that there is purpose behind the crap! Mechanisms that help me cope have to be identified and removed so my reliance is where it needs to be - fully on Jesus! I am so thankful for those willing to walk alongside us in grace and compassion. I have been challenged by the transparency of your stories and encouraged by both your struggles and victories. I pray my life's ups and downs is doing the same for you. May we all grow more aware of the divine love of God, learn to trust the Spirit more every day, and allow our stories (testimonies) to bring glory to God.
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