Thursday, February 02, 2012

Becoming a Jewel


She didn't have to say anything. When I walked in the room, I knew.

Life was wearing her down.

Her sagging shoulders, her sighs, her tired eyes told the story.

What do you say when there's nothing you can do, when you've pleaded with God for and with her, when His plan takes time? How do you encourage when you just wish her relief you can't provide?

I know the right answers. You speak truth. You stand alongside. You pray. I try to. I listen and stay positive and remind her where she's come from, but out of her presence I shed my own tears.

This woman does hard and does it regularly. She is beauty. She models faithfulness, perseverance, though she feels defeated. How I treasure her, admire her, look up to her.

And my heart swells with gratitude for a sister who follows His way even when it takes everything out of her, whose Bible lies open on her desk, who WILL push through, though her droopy spirit might lag.

For it's the tough stuff that polishes us, that smooths our rough edges, that reveals His touch. Pressing on will breed a quiet spirit, a restful heart. The heat produces the shine.

And though my heart hurts with hers, I thank God for loving her so much He's cultivating the precious, turning her into a jewel.


Find more Thankful Thursday quotes at Grace Alone.



Photo Credit: tanakawho

7 comments:

Pia said...

praying alongside somebody, just listening and simply being there... i know how much that means to a person who is downhearted. a prayer can lift her spirits up. a prayer can change things. a prayer from the heart, sincerely uttered is very powerful. God bless you and your good heart.

Renee said...

What a beautiful perspective on and description of difficulties. Thanks for sharing her testimony, even indirectly. Blessings!

Denise said...

Bless you for sharing this.

vwwannab said...

This is where you put me to shame. I wish I had your talent for this beautiful writing. My running doesn't change anyone's life but my own. Your words encourage, enlighten and inspire. Love you! - Shauna

Lisa Maria said...

Beautiful Tami...so heart wrenching and beautiful! God bless this sister and may He give her strength for her journey.

eph2810 said...

You are a beautiful friend to stand by someone who is struggling. Just being there I know will give her comfort.

Thank you so much for sharing from your heart.

Love & peace,
Iris

Debbie Petras said...

Sometimes all a person needs is a hug and a listening ear. Words cannot always make things better. The gift of friendship and understanding are wonderful and all too often uncommon.

Blessings and love,
Debbie