One night I was lying in bed and whining to God. Why God? Why do bad things happen? Why can’t they be avoided — both the things that we choose and things we didn’t choose. I sat there thinking about all the things I have experienced in my lifetime.
I told God that I feel that all these negative experiences have chipped away at who I am and who I’m supposed to be. I feel weak when I should feel strong or hesitant when I should move. Why do things have to be difficult at times? Then God so gently answered as He always does. (Not the kind of reaction my kids get from me when they whine. God is so loving!)
He revealed to me a picture in my mind: it was of a block of wood. Then He said to me that sometimes it does hurt when experiences and trials feel as if they are chipping away at you, but every chip is shaping you. Every chip brings this piece of wood closer to being the piece of art that I have intended for you.
The finished product is beautiful artwork; and without certain experiences to chip away at the block of wood, you won’t become the finished product you are to be.
Memory Verse:
“But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”
-Job 23:10 (NIV)
Prayer Prompt:
“Lord, please keep me strong. Keep me focused through difficult times. Help me to have peace when I do not understand. I desire to be the beautiful piece of artwork that You want me to be. There is purpose in all things, and Your Glory will shine through. Please show me to be strong as You chisel my life, especially in the area of…”
Contributing Writer:
Estella Smith
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