Pain is unavoidable; no one loves it, but it finds its way into our lives in unexpected
moments and inopportune times and seasons. We can experience physical, mental,
emotional, and even spiritual pain. There is significant pain that we experience as a
family member has health issues or transitions. Pain reveals its ugly self as we place
our trust in people who severely disappoint us. This is similar to snatching the tablecloth
off a fully set table: plates fly everywhere, as do emotions. Profound pain results from
deep disappointment, leaving us with questions and broken hearts. With pain and
pieces, it is easy to believe that the rebuilding is based on our strength and effort.
However, Psalm 34:18 reminds us,
18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
The shattered pieces of our hearts are irreparable with our hands. But there is nothing
too hard for God.
God is hope in seasons of pain.
Deep pain makes us desire never to leave our beds and can cause us to doubt what
God has placed inside of us. In challenging moments and seasons, people's words
can be pretty weighty. Negative comments seem catastrophic, and positive affirmations
seem few in number and faint in sound. This is when God shows up with hope for
our specific situation. This is when God reminds us of Jeremiah 29:11
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
As pain is present, God shows us that we are not alone, nor does God mind fighting
battles in life’s mess with us. We need these hopeful reminders in our deepest pain
because they can make a difference. In deep pain,
God reminds us that He has not changed.
Painful seasons breed uncertainty. We tend to question everything! We wonder if we are
the reason for the pain, if we could have done things differently, and what is next. With
so much uncertainty, God has a way of clarifying for us that we are loved and that He
has us even when others do not. Challenges shake us, but they do not have the power
to shake God. Simple songs such as Jesus loves the little children reminded me on
rough days that I am a child of the King, and that is not up for negotiation. Experiencing
pain does not erase the promise found in John 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
God shows up for His people even in their deepest pain and reveals He is the God
of the mountains and the valleys. Deep pain sucks, but God tends to show up in unimaginable ways as we place our trust in Him.
If you are experiencing deep pain, I cry with you, but at the same time, I’m excited for you. Because as we weep, our Father shows up with compassion, love, and provision. Deep pain is the 911 signal for God to rush in with great hope. Stay close to God.
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