Freely Speaking with Laura

The verses I cling to change with the seasons of life. However, there are verses that I return to again and again, like Philippians 3:12-14 (NIV), “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

 For decades, I prayed, “Lord, help me take hold of everything you took hold of me for. I don’t want to miss anything you have for me.” I didn’t expect His answer to include such deep pain. I wanted to do great things for God. He had a bigger plan.

Some of God’s lessons aren’t fun. By necessity, I have learned to lean into God when I’d rather hide. I’ve repeatedly reminded myself that what God desires for me isn’t found in this life. I want Him to take away the pain, but my current comfort is not His most significant concern.  

Life can be harsh! But, when we press into (literally to stretch toward) God, He has an amazing way of making beautiful things grow in the middle of our ugly, painful messes. His idea of beauty isn’t always what I want, but it is eternal, outlasting my selfish desires.

If you’re in a difficult season, pray that not one moment of your suffering will be wasted. Pray God would use it all for your good and His glory. Pray to walk with integrity, staying close to Him through whatever comes. Then, you can tell the whole story without embarrassment. Pray that you will take hold of everything He took hold of you for. Pray for His comfort and strength, then press on, dear friend.