Monday, March 31, 2008

Beauty For Ashes...

A flock of Scarlet Ibises landing in the trees in Caroni Marsh, Trinidad.

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes,the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

Isaiah 61:3

As long as we are on earth we are subject to pain...it is unavoidable. As agonizing as life can be at times, if we allow God to work, the pain can be a time of growth. The Lord knows all about your broken heart, your hurt, your wounds, your despair and even your mourning. He offers His healing, freedom, deliverance, and joy to everyone.

I read that the Chinese have an interesting symbol for the word crisis; it indicates both danger and opportunity. When the stakes are high and the outcome in doubt, purpose can emerge from pain, like 'beauty from ashes'. New dreams, new relationships, new attitudes about life can open up to you as a result of your experience.
Express your feelings to God. Allow Him to give you 'Beauty instead of ashes… and… praise instead of… despair.'

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