One thing I have learned is this: God sees what we cannot see. When difficulties and pain through relationships or situations arise, sometimes that searing pain is necessary and healing in itself. I know that sounds counter-intuitive.
I experienced a very difficult situation not long ago, a painful situation which made me wonder to God–knowing my heart and how much it hurt–why it would happen when, if it turned out differently, would be so much easier (I thought) and better for me (I perceived). But, my thoughts and perceptions were wrong. The pain I endured through that year blossomed into a knowing and wise breakthrough. Looking back, I see why God shaped my life that way. Knowing me, if he had done it differently, it actually would have been harder and much more painful for me in the long run.
Of course, I could not see that at the time. But sometimes sharp, searing pain is necessary for enduring healing. Like a lump of coal in the fire, the fire shapes the coal and it becomes a diamond.
God prunes us, and it hurts. We wonder, why make us care at all, if to cut it off? Because it builds us, forms us, guides us, shapes our character, defines us. Pruning at first looks ugly and deformed; but wait, in time, new shoots grow– greener, more lush, bearing fruit that the old branch, deadened by issues we could not comprehend, only served to drain life from the parts of us that needed growth and maturity. In time, you will be a tree in full bloom and understand. In time–for time is our time in the desert to grow closer with Him–you will glorify God for this very thing because, looking back and understanding his omniscience, you will be amazed in what he really did for you during this difficult time.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, Lean not unto your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and he will direct thine path. (Proverbs 3:5)
