Bitter Made Bearable

I know a whole lot of people right now whose hearts are breaking. Their struggles run the gamut–disease, divorce, death of a loved one, addiction, rebellious children, infertility. Dave often tells his counseling clients that he would love to fix things, but his magic wand is broken. I feel the same way.

I’ve struggled through a few rough spots in my life–some of my own making and some just from living in a broken world. Both really, really stink. I will tell you, though, that I’ve learned that when I take responsibility for the things that are mine and leave the rest to God and everyone else, life has more peace. The words I speak, the activities I choose, the boundaries I set and the people I lean on can make a pretty significant difference in my own emotional and spiritual health. Even then, things will be hard. I’m telling you, though, every bitter road I’ve walked has been made bearable (and even beautiful!) by Jesus. Every.Single.One.

“I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears…The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them…Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.” –Psalm 34

God will not often erase your trials (especially when they’re a result of your own lousy choices), but He will give you the strength to take what comes in His peace and with courage.