“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18
I have been quoting this verse over and over in my head during this season of life I am currently in. I’m not sure how to explain this season, but if I tried, it’s much like a growing but hurting, processing but trusting type. Have you ever been there? It’s not fun, but I know that God is doing so much refining, so I can’t be angry that it’s happening, I only need to trust the Lord through it and keep on going.
As I repeat this verse to myself, I break it into parts to remember a deeper understanding.
But grow– Even in the pain, this refining process is causing me to grow. To grow a deeper understanding of who my savior is, of who He has created me to be. Much like a plant when it is transplanted into a new pot. A new environment, but once it takes root, it is able to grow bigger and stronger than it was before.
In the grace and knowledge– Grace is the unmerited favor of God, through this process, this refining time, I am learning more and more about how it is nothing what I can do, it is all about what God can do and will do! I don’t deserve any gift that He has given me, but the more I am humbled and see that it is simply His grace, I see more of my Savior.
Of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ– It has always been about Jesus Christ and will continue to be. It is so easy to get caught up in our own struggles, sadness or other spectrum, victories. Forgetting that all of it is to point us to Jesus.
To Him be the glory– Whatever I face on this earth, I know that it is for the glory of God. I can choose to be filled with joy. Continuing on with a hope that Jesus will be returning and this suffering will be no more.
Brothers and sisters, I don’t know what you are facing right now or what your heart is yearning for, but I do know a Savior who is waiting for you to surrender it to Him. Let Him carry this life’s hurts and heavies. He is faithful and will gently help you through.
Stay faithful and hopeful. God is good. He is worth it all.
-Kayla Miller, GEM Missionary