It is quieter than normal in her living room. Though her smile normally lights up a room, today it is absent. Instead there are tears and confusion and deep, deep thought. She says something then stares at the floor. I hate to break the quiet and something in me tells me to wait, so I do. More pain comes gushing out and then more silence. The pattern continues and soon I find myself in wonder. My beautiful, beautiful friend is processing past hurt and emotions she has tried to avoid, simply because God says it is time.
He tells her, "Let it out, deal with it, feel it." While it cuts to her core, she decides she must because as she puts it, "I feel worse, but I know it's going to be better." Amid the sorrow there is hope. And I see the desire in her to know God more, to experience the freedom only He can give.
She knows it won't be fun. She's sure He'll ask her to do things she doesn't want to, but she'll do them. She's determined to follow Him wherever He leads. She has to. Her heart truly belongs to Him.
“Still, accepting God’s existence is one thing; honoring his command is another matter entirely, especially if we’re required to go back when we’d rather go forward.”
~Liz Curtis Higgs
And here I am, sitting on her couch, watching God do His thing, seeing her respond with humility and trust. She has never been more beautiful. My already high esteem jumps up considerably and I thank God I know this woman who challenges me to be better. God's touch is evident. I am so proud of her.
I can't help but wonder if I have that courage. Would I be willing to take a step back for God? Could I walk through pain only because God said it was necessary? I'd like to think I would, but just in case, I'll keep hanging with this girl. She's sure to lead the way.
For more impressions on this week's quote, visit Miriam Pauline's Monologue.
8 comments:
What an awesome privilege, to be with a friend as they allow God to totally break through (even if it means breaking them). I agree, there is nothing more beautiful. Treasure that moment, it may be the strength you need at some point.
Thanks for participating, and for your comment. It has been years since I read Hinds' Feet on High Places. Maybe it is time for a refresher course. Bless you my friend!
Tami, How blessed your friend is to have a supporter, a listener for a FRIEND.
From experience I know, when God calls you to revisit the past and deal with the issues, it hurts like nothing you've ever felt before. But the healing is sweeter than anything you've ever felt before too. He orchestrates it and is there. And how wonderful when He provides other Christians (Christ with skin on) to be there as well.
Thank you , thank you for sharing today.
Bonnie
Watching a friend follow the request to "go backward" is a very hard thing to watch...thankful that SHE has a friend in you..
thanks for sharing your heart...
beautiful.
Praying I have the courage..
peace,
lori
Your friend is very blessed to have a friend like you to walk through this difficult time with her. Your post touched my heart.
Blessings.
Your friend is very brave. I'm glad you have each other to walk through it together.
You are a great friend! And, a super listener. Wise beyond your years ; )
Thank you for vividly bringing to life the account of pain, trust and faith from your friend's hurts. What a true, blessed friendship you two have- rooted in Him.
Hey Tami,
What a friend you have and what a FRIEND you are!!
Couldn't help but think of Proverbs 17:17 as I read this today~
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