The Blessing In Our Wounds

THE BLESSING IN OUR WOUNDS

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians‬ ‭4:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

At first glance, the thought that there is a blessing in our wounds sounds absurd. No one in their right mind knowingly asks for an insult or wound, let alone a disease or life-altering loss.

However, as I was preparing my heart for Thanksgiving, I was suddenly confronted with memories of emotional and physical wounds—betrayals, insults, abandonments, embarrassments, injuries, pain and loss from my past. Before I could shift my thought to the positive, the Lord spoke to my heart and said,

“Give thanks FOR everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Ephesians 5:20 (emphasis mine)

He instantly revealed a hidden truth.  When I have resisted bitterness and sought Him in a hard or painful circumstance, He has used it to transform me into a better person that chooses a better path.

Betrayals made me loyal.  Insults made me kind. Abandonments made me faithful. Embarrassment made me considerate.  And injuries, pain and loss made me more compassionate and generous.

It is in the pressing that olives give forth oil; it is under pressure that diamonds are made.

The Lord uses the wounds we receive from others as tools.  When we submit to Him in them, He uses them to shape us into the image of His Son.

Terrible things happen in this life, and I wouldn’t for a second minimize another’s suffering.  I only want to offer an opportunity to exchange a label of “victim” for one that says, “blessed.” We are all victims at some point, but it is our choice to remain one.

Father, in this beautiful season of thanks, we bring our wounds before You.  We are so grateful for Jesus, for through Him, You work all things together for our good (Rom 8:28).  We thank You for our blessings—the big ones, small ones, hidden ones, and even the blessing in our wounds, because when we let You use them, they make us more like Jesus.  In Jesus’ Name ❤️

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