Hope for the Heart

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him. ~ James 1:12

It is the heart of Winter. Bared limbs of Silver Birches claw at a steely sky. Early mornings dazzle with delicately frosted foliage and intricate patterns in ice. This season of sparseness has a stark beauty that brings about a sense of respite. A quiet waiting and turning inward, trusting the renewal that is happening, undetected. A time to tend fires and gently simmering pots of hearty wholesomeness. A time to let go, to unclutter, to cherish togetherness. A time to lean into the voice of God, whispering of restoration and hope.

As the wind buffets and the cold bites, I'm writing this for anyone who may be going through a harsh season of testing. Olives render their precious oil through pressing, grapes cannot become wine without being crushed. This may or may not be for you, but it resonated with me, and gave me fresh perspective and courage:

"Your calling is going to crush you.

If you are called to mend the broken-hearted, you are going to wrestle with a broken heart.

If you are called to help heal God's little ones, you are going to experience your own share of trauma.

If you are called at all to the lost and broken of this world. The throw aways. To preach and teach the gospel, you WILL be sifted for the wisdom that annoints your message.

If you are called to empower, your self esteem will be attacked, your success hard fought.

Your calling will come with spiritual warfare and a sifting, BOTH are necessary for your mantle to be authentic, humble and powerful.

Your crushing won't be easy, because your assignment is not easy, and you cannot minister POWERFULLY what you have not walked out. Read that sentence again...

When you're feeling the weight of it coming down on you, RUN to the Father who longs to be your comfort. Let him whisper your true identity over you while you are resting under the shadow of his wings. Position yourself against His heartbeat. Let Him renew your strength and set your eyes forward.

No olives, no oil.

No grapes, no wine.

Your oil is not cheap my friend." ~ Author Unknown

Take courage precious child of the King. The Refiner of your soul is a good and faithful Father. His testing purifies, His pruning and sifting will bring new vigour, purpose and growth. His Spirit brings solace in our pain, so that we in turn can reassure and encourage others who are hard pressed.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." ~ 2 Corinthians 1:3-4