“Pain changes you completely,” she remarked as she shielded the tears from my view.

The impact of her words were lost on me as she proceeded with her heart wrenching story.

“I have lost everything...”

Day after day, I watched as she carried her wounds like barbed wire attached to her skin. 

If anyone dared get too close, they felt the instant sting.

Years passed and the weight of her message combed through my mind as trial after trial crashed in around me. Her summation of pain was correct... it does change you completely.

Physical, spiritual, and emotional exhaustion set in as I cried out pleading for something, anything to be different. 

“Lord, I see the worldly changes that pain has caused, please make it all worthwhile.”

That is when a still small voice whispered to my soul, “Sweet child, look around, don’t you see that I am changing you?

For had I not called your children home, you may have missed the blessing of growing through your grief.

For had I not allowed your physical pain, you may have missed the eyes to look upon others with compassion.

For had I not allowed your ministry to crumble, you may have missed the opportunity to use your voice to reach the world with my message.

For had I not allowed financial hardship, you may have missed my provision through the generosity of others.

For had I not allowed pain to exist, you may have missed that I alone, am enough for you.”

I lifted my head from the silent prayer as the sun glittered brightly above, heart rejoicing with praise. 

His words were abundantly clear…

Pain HAS changed EVERYTHING about me. 

So dear reader, how is pain changing you?

Are you like the dear woman above consumed and unable to move beyond your affliction?

Or,

Has God given you a glimpse of His faithfulness in the midst of your suffering as He is softening your rough edges?