Focus Verse: God may kill me, but still I will trust him; Job 13:15a (CEV)
Do you remember what it was like when you first liked someone? Everything had to be perfect. You wanted to make certain that everything you did and said was just right. You had to be flawless for that person.
Then after a while, the newness begins to wear off and you no longer felt like you have to put on a facade. The real you began to show and not your representative. Because you had gotten comfortable, you allowed yourself to be vulnerable with that person. You all grow closer and then the unthinkable happens, they disappoint you. You were heart broken.
The epitome of a real relationship.
This same thing holds true with our relationship with Christ. I remember when I first accepted Jesus and decided to follow Him. Everything was perfect, He began to change my life. I couldn’t wait to spend time with Him. I tried to pray really cute impressive prayers. It was great! And then after a while, the newness began to wear off and Tiffani, outside of Christ, started to reveal herself much more. Things got real and we honestly began to grow together. I found myself becoming more vulnerable and open to dealing with the condition of my heart. And then just like in a human relationship, there was disappointment, heartbreak, and even anger. No longer was I concerned with appearing perfect, I wanted to tell Him how I felt, how He hurt me, how I couldn’t believe He would do that to me.
It’s not until you get close to God that you begin to feel the pain of being hurt by Him. Often times as Christians, we don’t feel like God should hurt us. But how else would He ever get us to look like His Son if He didn’t? However, we can be encouraged because we know that God uses everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called for His purpose, Romans 8:28.
Prayer: God, Thank You for the opportunity to truly know You. There have been times in our walk together that I have experienced true pain and disappointment. I thank You that the pain did not come without a purpose and that it’s all a part of Your plan for me to look more like Your Son. I accept whatever You bring my way because I know it is meant for my good. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen!
Kristin Kimble says
This was right on time! Disappointment is such a strong emotion. But it absolutely teaches me more about myself, and what my expectations were. Then God reveals His truth and I learn more about Him! Relationships are work, even more so with God! But so rewarding and an absolute blessing!
Tiffani says
Yes the reward is definitely worth the work!
Laura Wize says
God’s understanding is not in ours, When I ever i feel confused I remember that and that everything is apart of his plan. Great post!
Tiffani says
Thank you for reading Laura!
Psyche says
What a wonderful analogy. It really makes your point clear.
Tiffani says
I’m glad it was clear for you!
Artney Walker says
One of the realest things I’ve ever read, as I’m walking in this season right now. So glad I found your blog!
Tiffani says
Hi Sarah! I am so glad it blessed you. Thank you so much for stopping by and connecting with me!
Kay says
This is a wonderful and very needed post! Full of truth. Sometimes God lets things hurt us to allow us to grow as a Christian.
Tiffani says
Amen! Thank you for stopping by!
Tara says
I love the faith and dedication of Job. I want to be more like that–without the same kinds of experiences to prove it! 😉
Tiffani says
Yes I can agree, but we know it just doesn’t happen like that, hahaha!
Megan Elford says
I was trying to explain this principle to someone just yesterday – I wish I had read this first! You explain it so much better than I did :-).
Tiffani says
I’m so glad it was clear. Thank you for reading.
Heather Lawrence says
I can say from personal experience that in those seasons of disappointment, hurt and anguish are the times when I had the most personal growth with my walk with God.
Even thought it was tough I would never want to miss the blessing I received in those moments.
Tiffani says
I can agree. We are perfected in those times. Thanks for stopping by!
Mihaela Echols says
I heard that too from other people. With Christ life still happens but with him there is hope and rest in him.
Tiffani says
Amen! Thank you for the hope!
Sarah Jane says
Thanks for sharing! My pastor is preaching through Job two Sunday afternoons a month.
Tiffani says
Thank you for stopping by. I hope his message is blessing you.
Lauren says
Nice. Nice translation choice for that verse too. Reminds me of Jeremiah who said : YOU TRICKED ME GOD. Lol I’ve felt like that before.
Tiffani says
Oh yes, something I know so well, hahaha!
Caroline says
Whew! Your outlook on this amazing. I love your humbling attitude!
Tiffani says
Praise God. Thank you Caroline!