"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful." Colossians 3:15
I have learned time and time again something that you have probably learned as well, a lesson is always learned when we go through an extended hard season. It is a lesson we all know from experience but have difficulty remembering in the heat of a trial; never do we grow more spiritually and never does our character mature more than during this time if we walk through it with the Lord.
Mountains and valleys strengthen our faith muscles. They expand our capacity to, one; believe God no matter what, and two; empathize with and extend compassion to others. I have learned that I cannot relate to something I have not gone through personally, and therefore I should not try and offer advice or my opinion. During those times it is best to just be there and listen.
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ." (2 Cor. 1:3-5)
Our experiences, each being different, are never wasted. When we reach the far side of our valley or mountain, we've gained something of great value in the process. It might be new insight, wisdom, understanding, and the confidence that comes with standing on the other side. We can always look behind us to see the faithfulness of God, even if we didn't recognize it during the process.
Always remember, all that you have learned is rarely intended for us to keep to ourselves. We must pass it on. Our mountains and valleys always bear testimony to God's faithfulness. Even though it is hard to sense God's goodness and to believe He has your best interest at heart when troubled times come.
What is most precious is we do not have to feel God's faithfulness to know that it is true, we don't even have to believe it at the time. What is true, is true regardless of what I think or feel. God's truth isn't dependent on my understanding, my actions, or even my level of trust or faithfulness at any given moment (thank goodness). When we can't make sense of our lives, and when it seems like God should turn His back on us because we've been struggling to trust Him, we must turn to His Word to be reminded of His truths.
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." (Isa. 55:8,9)
God doesn't work the way we do. He stays faithful even in the places we wouldn't. He is strong in our weakness. He carries us in our times of need. Aren't you thankful?
I love you & He loves you more!
Lord, Thank You! For Your goodness and kindness. For Your love and devotion, for Your lessons I have learned from, and some I have been able to help others because of my experience. I am so thankful that Your ways are best even when I sometimes can't see it for the clouds. Amen.
Originally posted on 5/6/2020