The Promise that Restores Hope
There is a promise in the Bible that I would consider one of the most powerful in my journey with Jesus. Disappointments, trials and pain will attempt to knock us off the trail that God has been trying to lead us on. But this promise has time and time again restored me back to the confidence that even when I feel like all is lost there exists a plan that was set in stone before the beginning of my time.
It is this: I am sure that the good work God began in you will continue until he completes it on the day when Jesus Christ comes again. (Philippians 1:6 ERV)
It would not be fair for me to talk about walking through the fire, without having walked through it myself. My journey being filled with great joys, has also been plagued with great pain, disappointment and frustrations. Earlier in my life those difficulties would cause my whole structure to shake and at times fall apart. But through trials, and with gaining understanding, I have grown to see that the pain that this world tries to avoid is actually my greatest weapon against my enemy, and the greatest invitation to deeper places in the Lord.
The belief that the blessed life in Christ is one without problems, issues or pain is a modern heresy and smacks the face of our Lord on the cross. His death was not only to satisfy the claim the enemy had on us; it was to shine a light on the path that He is leading true followers on. Take up your cross and follow. We, of all people, should not shy away when pain advances. We instead should be the ones who squeeze tighter Jesus’ hand that is holding ours, and with determination, step into the glory that is rightfully ours on the other side of the obstacle.
Though there have been many tears that I have cried, and moments of unspeakable pain in my heart, the answer is not to avoid these emotions and experiences with grief, but to know that as we are releasing what needs to be released, we are also being held and comforted.
He did not fail in your situation, He is leading you and growing you, so that you will be able to overcome. But, if we make excuses, build walls, and hide behind lies about our pain, we will remain wounded and unable to grow up into the strength and freedom that is rightfully ours in Jesus.
It is in us receiving this promise of His faithfulness toward our spiritual growth that we find true lasting hope and understanding that shines light on even the darkest parts of life.
This is an excerpt from S Book 2 of The Compass Series. I think it describes this aspect of our journey well:
“Bridget, do you see that mountain over there?” he says as he points north toward a peak with three spires rising from the summit like towers.
“Yeah, that’s one of my favorites.”
“I think that your process of healing from the pains that you’ve been through is like this. You began your life on top of that mountain. It was beautiful and stunning from up there. But then a life circumstance that was beyond your control carried you down here. If you will agree to the journey, then you will stand back on top of that mountain. It won’t be easy, and at times you will question its worth. There may be times when you turn around and start hiking back down the slope. But if you refuse to give up, you will regain all that was lost. You see, the journey is what actually allows you to receive the reward. It miraculously gives you the ability to hold the treasure that’s waiting at the end. Sometimes you’ll find yourself running full speed and gaining so much ground. At other times you’ll be crawling on your hands and knees. And there may even be times when Joshua will have to carry you. But I see in you such a determination, such a resolve to be up there again.”
Story is one of the most powerful tools in our engagement of ourselves, God and this world. If you connect with this writing, check out The Compass Series. It is a 4 book series that takes the reader on a journey that is sure to release lasting change in their life.