I know. You’re
thinking we shouldn’t hate scripture—and I agree with you. But eons ago when I
was a new Christian, I didn’t know that.
And so when I
stumbled across this verse in my Bible, I thought You’ve got to be kidding me.
Fear not; there is nothing to fear for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am Your God. I will strengthen you and harden you to difficulties; yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My victorious right hand of rightness of and justice. (Isaiah 41:10) (Amplified Bible)
Now on the
surface, you might think that Isaiah 41:10 is a good verse. But to me, that
verse shouted one thing: Things are going
to get worse. But you’ll get as tough as the callouses on a ballerina's feet, and even though it’ll be really, really hard, you’ll be able to walk on rough ground because I will help you.
The problem was,
I didn’t want to be tough. And I hated callouses.
Those spoke
of storms and tragedies and tough walks that I knew I didn’t want to endure.
It didn’t matter if God said he’d be there. I’d had enough, and I’d rather not
go through any more, thank you very much.
As
far as I was concerned I’d already paid my dues—entirely too many dues,
frankly, and I wanted happy verses. Verses that promised me everything was
going to be alright. Verses that assured me God was in control, He loved me,
and I wouldn’t have to go through any more pain.
Have you ever
felt that way? Like you’ve endured so much, and one more thing—just one more
thing, would push your straight over the edge?
I understand.
But now,
20-odd years later, I have fresh perspective. I realize that as God’s children,
we are not here to experience lavishly comfortable lives. In fact, we’re called
to lay down our lives. And part of that means going through some hard,
uncomfortable times. But it’s not because God is cruel. Not at all.
It’s because
the enemy is cruel. He steals and kills and destroys, and our earth is shaking
with those who have been wounded and don’t know the One who can strengthen them
and hold them up.
But we do.
Because when
we go through our hard times, keeping our eyes on Jesus, knowing that God
Himself girds and strengthens us, not only are we living proof of the Hope
within us, but because of what we’ve endured, we can authentically pray, reach
out, understand, and point others toward the One who awaits with outstretched
arms.
Now I no
longer hate that scripture verse. I adore it. Because it means that no matter
what I go through, He is holding me up. And if you’re with me, in the end, our calloused
feet will dance straight to Him, leading all those behind us.
All because
we’ve been hardened to difficulties.
And
ironically, that is exactly what softens our hearts.
8 comments:
Hi Julie,
Sorry, I deleted first comment...I'm not all that computer savvy :o)... so here I go again...
Julie this post is so well written, and what a blessing it was for me to read and gain insight from...
God bless you,
michele
What a sweet revelation -- growing hardened to difficulties softens our hearts.
Thanks, Julie. Blessings on your week!!
A great image and object lesson, Julie. I'm so thankful for the One who holds me up. Don't know what I'd do without Him!
Julie,
We are good at self-preservation, right? :) I can relate to your quandry. Growth can't happen in a bubble and often happens through our difficulties. Thank you for this reminder to hold on to His promises.
Blessings, Hester ;)
I'm with you on fearing that verse. It means letting go. Completely. Why shouldnt I? After all, He's got it. He can handle it.
There's just something about not having a grip...
That would make a good sermon sister. :) Love from Maine and many thanks for what you do here, Amy
Just forwarded this message to my wife; I am sure it will be a blessing for her. She needs refreshment and encouragement while we are facing very hard times in our ministry.
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