Recovery

I'd like to give encouragement to all those who are recovering right now from some sort of struggle -  the loss of a job, home, loved one, dream or marriage. Maybe it's a long illness, accident, or some sort of trauma or abuse you are healing from. It could also be eating issues, drugs, pornography, alcohol, unhealthy relationships, anxiety or depression. You may fill in your personal blank.

By the grace of God through sweat and tears, you have moved through to a different phase. Some of those chains have been cut down. Eyes are more clear. You can breathe better. There is joy. And yet, from time to time there are pot holes, obstacles, and unforeseen setbacks. 

This can bring on a fresh onslaught of discouragement and even grief. One can wonder if they are even healing at all. It's painful as we fall to our knees (again) asking for God's help and direction while feelings of shame threaten to take us out. 

To this person I want to say, "congratulations" because you are not back where you started. Do not believe that lie. Your forward and down again have not been wasted. It's been hard work on this path you're on. 

Often, the hardest work of recovery is done in the mind and quiet spaces where only Jesus can see. He is aware of the hard tasks you do, daily. Putting in another day is still another day of victory. God  is rooting for you.

The way you have taken your pain and used it to care for others has blessed the heart of Jesus. He is "El Roi" the God who sees you. What that means is that He *knows* you - all the ins and outs that make up your heart and mind. He cares for you. He loves who he sees. The changes you've made are significant to Him. 

Backward steps and miserable days do not discount your recovery through Christ! You are better than you were even as you have more to recover from. That is actually a healthy process for life.

May we all be people who continually grow until we are welcomed into our heavenly home.

You are some of the bravest and brightest fighters on the planet who truly grasp the meaning of grace - my kind of comrads! 

God's mercies are brand new each morning and great is His faithfulness to you (Lamentations 3:23). 

Surround yourself with wise and compassionate supporters. A few of those are like gold! 

Stay away from the ones who want to see you fail - the shamers, condemners and people who very mistakenly think they are better than you. Give them grace while maintaining healthy boundaries. Some people won't ever get it and that's okay. 

Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. Anything else is man-made.

You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength (Philippians 4:13). 

Don't lose heart. You can do it, today. 

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." Exodus 14:14. Alleluia for that!

Well done, friend. Keep going.

Written by,

Dee M. Kostelyk