From massage table to spiritual growth—learning to trust the process.

There are very few things I enjoy more than a massage with Samantha at Massage Envy! She has a way of going deeper without causing me a lot of pain. Even so, there will inevitably be a spot here or there that is a little more tender than expected. Somehow, Samantha knows when she reaches that spot and kindly backs off just a bit or works it through gently. I have found that if I breathe through that momentary discomfort, I am better off for it afterward. 

Hmmm......  That is a lot like my life as a Christian. God, in His Word, gives us instructions on how we are to live our lives to become more like Christ. That is the goal—to become more like Jesus every day. Isaiah 64:8 reminds us: 

"But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand." 

And Romans 12:1-2 urges us:

"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

I can tell you that for me, there are definitely times when He is molding me, and there is a spot that turns out to be much more tender than expected! It can even be downright painful! But I know that if I breathe through that momentary discomfort and follow Him, I will be more like Jesus afterward. Hebrews 12:11 is so true:

"For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."

And Proverbs 6:23 is powerful: 

"For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life,"

Just like Samantha knows how much pressure to apply and when to ease up, God knows our tender places. In His kindness, He gently leads us through our pain. His correction is never cruel—it’s always guided by love and aimed at our growth. God's way is always the best way, so I can rest assured that no matter the circumstances at the time, I can rest in His goodness. 

Are You Struggling Through a Difficult Time?

Here are some Scriptures that bring me comfort. I pray they do the same for you:

• Psalm 91:1–16 – God's protection and presence

• Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart

• Romans 8:28 – God works all things together for good

• Matthew 7:11 – The Father gives good gifts to His children

• Philippians 1:6 – He will finish the work He started in you

• Hebrews 7:25 – Jesus always lives to intercede for us