Blessed Blows (#312 of 365+)

“Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being” (Proverbs 20:30)

Joni shared some nuggets of wisdom from her experiences with pain and
disappointment. She has learned that after she’s had a really rough time or reached a whole new low—basically, after she’s come to the end of herself and cried her heart out to the Lord—she comes out on the other side of it stronger, more mature in faith, and even more joyful.

“Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word… It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees” (Psalm 119:67, 71)

I don’t know exactly how he works, but I know the Holy Spirit is molding me into who I’m destined to be (Romans 8:29) and at the end of this life I’ll see how he worked everything together for good (Romans 8:29).

He broke me down so he could build me up in him.
He purged my selfishness so I’d serve someone selflessly.
He let life distress me in ways that softened my hard heart.
Why? He did it for his glory...

“Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness” (Hebrews 12:10)

“Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him” (Job 13:15)

“May he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (Hebrews 13:21)

Father God, thank you for your tender yet tough kind of love. You know my flaws better than anyone else does but you continue to forgive and call me your child. Thank you for always looking out for what’s best for me. Your grace is truly amazing. Teach me to be more like you. Amen.