Friday, September 5, 2008
God's Process
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3 (New American Standard Bible)
So often I want to take this verse to mean instantaneous healing and binding. I fail to see there is a process involved. Such was the case when a resent conversation triggered some painful memories for me. What I had thought was so well taken care of came to the surface with a vengeance and the battle was on! Scripture says that God requires truth in the inward parts and often times the revealing of that truth can be daunting and painful. But His intent is to clean out the wound of hurt and bind it up again. What has been festering under the surface needs to be acknowledged and brought one step closer to wholeness.
I use to fear these times. So afraid of being dragged into an emotional pit with no idea of the length of stay. But each time they occur I am becoming more and more confident of the tentative nature of their existence. They are not meant to do me in. They are meant to strengthen and grow me up. While there may be tears and lots of questions, it becomes a time of taking in truth and seeing things from God’s perspective.
The most recent incident had a definite cycle. First was the initial internal shift. I knew I was being hit with strong emotions and thoughts. Then came the tears. I have learned the preciousness of crying on God’s shoulder. He never rushes this part. I simply cry until the tears have been fully released. Then came the time of acknowledging the things that are still harbored in my heart and mind. This entailed grief and disappointment. Then came a time of simply resting in Him. No thinking just resting. Then came a few more tears and a time of mulling things over. Finally came the music that seemed to trigger His application of a reassuring balm. Just as I knew when the battle started, I knew when it was over! Although it is still a tender spot for me I know that once again He has bound the wounds and has allowed peace to envelope me.
I know there will be many more times of tending to this area of my life but I am also sure the end will be healing and wholeness. As He changes me, He changes the processes He uses. I do not want to limit the many ways He chooses to bring me into freedom and flight!
Father, You are the healer of my heart and binder of my wounds. I yield to Your touch. Amen.
He Understands My Tears
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJIHES6eX_g
He is wooing you from the jaws of distress to a spacious place free from restriction, to the comfort of your table laden with choice food. Job 36:16