Hearing other people share their testimonies, successes, and stories of overcoming usually evokes feelings of joy. I can definitely say that it gives me a new sense of hope and provides encouragement.
One thing that I notice is that very few like to talk about what’s happening when they find themselves in the middle of a challenging season. I call this the “messy middle’’ when it seems I am in the middle of a dark tunnel and the proverbial light at the end is nowhere in sight.
I am currently in the messy middle of something that is so much bigger than me. It has been exhausting, painful, and at times, has left me feeling hopeless. In this messy middle, there have been many sleepless nights, weary mornings, and tears. But, as I reflect on this season, I can say that what were once tears of disappointment have becomes tears of gratefulness. God never failed to show Himself faithful to me in the midst of what I am walking through.
The artist Tauren Wells wrote a song called the “God of the Hills and Valleys.” The messy middle is allowing me to know the God of the valleys experientially. Yes, He is the same God who remains faithful in the hard places. And it is in a hard place that I am learning to experience His grace and walk in the power of His strength.
So, I can say I thank God for the “messy middle” because it is here that I am experiencing Him and the beauty of His grace in a fresh and new way.
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
Pamela Bell has been a resident of Mobile, Alabama since 1996. She is active in her local church and has a heart to mentor and serve young women as they grow in their relationship with God.
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