"Every problem has a hidden blessing inside. So don't get upset when you are in problem. It may have a more beautiful ending than your expectation." -Unknown
Do you ever feel broken? Do you feel like there is no good in what you're going through? Do you feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel? That was me a few weeks ago.
When I first moved to college everything seemed to be going just right. I had my best friend as my roommate. I got into the sorority I wanted. I found a church that I loved. I had prosperous relationships in my life. I was successful in my classes. I felt so close to the Lord. I spent so much time in The Word and in prayer. I could see The Lord's hand in every aspect of my life.
Suddenly, everything began to change. I got so busy with school, my sorority, and trying to please people that I completely ignored God. I spent all of my time studying, being with my friends, or watching Netflix. I lost communication with some of the most important people in my life. I began making decisions that did not reflect who I am. I became distracted by things the world had to offer. I was happy, but the happiness I found always ended so quickly, creating a cycle of always wanting more. I even had a friend say I was unrecognizable when they talked to me on the phone. I was barely two months into college, and I had let every influence and change I promised myself I would avoid affect me.
I realized what was happening, and began praying.
I prayed to be radically awakened. I begged God for a breakthrough. I didn't realize what exactly would come with that. I wanted so badly to hang on to the things in my life that were making me happy. Our God is a jealous God because He knows what He has for us is best. So He began stripping things away, and it hurt. But what He replaced it with has been nothing but pure healing and an everlasting joy.
Every dark thing I went through was brought to light.
The Holy Spirit hit me like a hurricane. I began healing. I began seeking the Lord in every aspect of my life. No, things are not perfect. I still struggle, but I now make better decisions that reflect Christ. I live every day completely surrendered with a purpose in mind. I find my fulfillment in Him. I have had friends who encourage me in my walk with God daily come beside me. My grades have drastically improved. I no longer fear failure because I know that this world does not define me, and with Christ, I will be successful. I am no longer holding onto the things that brought me down. Christ died so that I can live in freedom from them. I just had to make the decision to give them up and let them go.
"He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake." - Psalm 23:2-3
He makes me lie down in green pastures. Even when I don't want to. Even when I pitch a fit and scream.
He created us, and He always knows what is best.
Sometimes God will lay you down, so He can get you in a situation to be able to give you an opportunity to experience His grace and mercy. He uses these times to let you trust His sovereignty. He will guide you in situations that are way better than where you could ever lead yourself.
