know me by His scars.

It’s been almost an ENTIRE year since my last blog post, which in the world of “aspiring author/blogger” is practically a crime. At least it’s nothing I can be prosecuted for!

The amount of changes that can take place in a year are infinitesimal, and this particular year has been no exception. It’s been the type of year that’s clearly been divinely orchestrated, one where there’s incredible growth and fruit, and there are undoubtedly even more good things ahead than have already been seen.

“And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” – Romans 8:28 (AMP)

My last post had that verse in it, so it seems appropriate that this one picks up with it!

But just because something is good, or something is working together for good, doesn’t mean it necessarily looks that way. And it certainly doesn’t mean it matches our expectations of what “good” is.

The honest truth is that if I knew exactly how the last year would’ve unfolded to get me where I am right now? I’m not sure I would’ve chosen that route. Why?

I’m sure I’ve touched on it before, but it’s been at least a year and truth always bears repeating. Refining happens in the fire. Fire burns. And burning? Hurts.

Who chooses pain? Even at a good outcome, what kind of choice is that?

“‘Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.’” – John 15:13 (NKJV)

Oh. And…

“Son though He was, He learned obedience from what He suffered…” – Hebrews 5:8 (NIV)

That. That’s who.

The sovereign King of the universe, Maker of all, the Almighty God, chose pain. But why?

Love.

“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.” – John 3:16 (NIV)

It’s all about love. Because it’s not about me.

And that’s the real perspective shift we all need – but me especially. Day after day, over and over. Eyes redirected to the One who is over all of it. Who is using the pain for something beautiful. Who doesn’t meet my expectations, because my expectations are too limited.

He’s a limitless God who does whatever He pleases – and I get the choice to submit to Him and His will.

No matter the cost.

Because when it comes down to it, when the pain is real and the questions feel unanswered, when I’m right in the middle of the storm, He’s there with me, and He’s not bothered by that storm.

And if He’s not bothered by the storm, when He loves me and has promised to never leave me nor forsake me, why would I ever be bothered by the storm?

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.” – 1 John 4:18 (NKJV)

Perfect love casts out fear. When I’m abiding in Him, when I’m walking in love, there is no place for fear.

When I know truth, I know that fires, even burning ones, are refining. I know that valleys are the places where things grow. I know that the waves aren’t out of control since, “He gave the sea its boundary so the waters would not overstep His command…” – Proverbs 8:29 (NIV)

So maybe, even knowing the depth of pain and hurt that has accompanied the growth this past year, I’d choose it anyways.

Not in my own strength, but in imitation of the One who is greater. Who gave it all for me.

So now I can give it all for Him.

“We love because he first loved us.” – I John 4:19 (NIV)

After all, the best is still yet to come.

Who knows what another year may bring – or even just tomorrow!

Keep pressing into Jesus, friend. He loves you.

Emily