Deep Wounds

“If we endure, we will also reign with Him;
         If we deny Him, He also will deny us; 
    ¹³If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.”

2 Timothy 2:12-13

Sometimes it is best for those who have never experienced some forms of pain not to offer counsel to others.  Intentions are good and I am sure we all mean well, but those who have not personally dealt with divorce, the betrayal of a spouse, pastor, friends, cannot offer effective counseling for those who have. 

Those who have experienced and made it through the deep wounds of suffering have all learned the same lesson (hopefully):  God allows suffering into our lives so that we may look to Him for our comfort and our strength.  Once we learn this lesson, we are able to meet others who are experiencing the same difficulties and walk that journey with them.  Because we have experienced the pain, we are able to offer others who suffer our genuine support and encouragement. 

Bringing encouragement to someone can be much more helpful than any type of head knowledge.  It is not that we should offer a false sense of hope that all will be well but instead to assure those hurting that God is real and He does keep His promises. 

 "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace ⁾In the world you have tribulation, but take courage;  I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)  Our words to others become vital as they serve as a reminder to trust in the promises of God.

When someone is hurting, sometimes words are not enough. Sometimes a simple hug expresses more than mere words. It may mean that the tender touch when holding hands could be all that someone needs.  Those who have dealt with the same types of suffering or pain know how to respond to others experiencing the same struggles. 

When one is hurting, loneliness can be overwhelming.  The darkness that follows can eat away at our soul if we choose to take our focus off God and place it on ourselves. Much like when Peter walked on the water.  At first, his eyes were focused on Christ but then he became aware of the storm that surrounded him.  Fear crept in as he realized he was alone. He then took his eyes off Christ and sank.

God’s promises are what we can rely on during our suffering.  God always gives us hope.  He is always with us and because He is always with us, we have hope.  Life is a journey and can bring great discouragement into our life but we should not give up.  God has great plans for us.  His eye is on us and He is waiting with open arms at the finish line for us.  We have to press on past the pain and obstacles by claiming Him faithful the entire way.  He has so much good planned for us when we follow His ways and remain focused on Him.