When Jesus Saw Their Faith- Part 2

I never really know if a blog will have a part two until I finish part one, and sometimes I don’t follow through. I often lose track of it. This year, I resolved to use my gifts to share my story and honor God, so here’s part deux.

Last year, my friends supported me with prayer during a particularly difficult and transitional period, as I mentioned in part one. Spiritually, it was one of the most challenging seasons I have ever experienced. As the year came to a close, I sensed that the Lord was encouraging me to fast. However, I struggled with obedience and entered the new year unsure of when, or even if, I would commit to fasting and intentionally seeking the Lord.

Despite reading the Bible daily, I found it difficult to pray. I confided in my husband about my spiritual struggles, and in response, he prayed for me. Normally, I am a dreamer, but during this time, I was not dreaming as usual. I recognized that my lack of dreams was connected to my disobedience in following what I felt the Lord was asking of me. The Holy Spirit began to reveal things about myself that I was reluctant to confront. Daughters of Fire, it was a tough season! To cope, I drowned myself in Netflix and social media, functioning almost like a robot. I was running on little to no sleep, eating at all hours of the night, and generally felt like a mess. What the Lord required of me felt overwhelming, and I realized I could not do it alone.

Early one morning, I listened to a voice note from a close friend, who often gives honest, loving advice. She shared a dream that I felt was from the Lord, reminding me of something I hadn’t obeyed. I confided in her, sharing everything I’d been struggling with, a burden I’d wanted to release but didn’t know how. The night before, I’d asked God who to turn to for prayer, and she was one of two names that came to mind. After our conversation, she understood the situation fully, seeing the Lord’s guidance in it all.

Daughters of Fire, there are moments in life when fear, trauma, hurt, or offense leave us feeling immobilized. Sometimes, these feelings stem from experiences we have never shared with anyone. In Mark 2:1-11, we read about a man who was physically paralyzed. However, paralysis can also take the form of emotional or mental struggles. Perhaps depression has settled over you, and you are hesitant to discuss it because it feels taboo in church settings. Whatever the cause, I sincerely pray that you find a friend to confide in and release those burdens. Possibly, the friend you need may be Jesus Himself. Or maybe He has been guiding you to connect with someone, but trust issues have held you back.

Regardless of what is paralyzing you, my prayer is for your healing. We often recite the scripture, ‘all things work together for good,’ (Romans 8:28) yet it can be difficult to accept that the good, bad, and ugly aspects of our lives must sometimes work together to fulfill God’s purpose. My friend prayed for me with such heartfelt sincerity, as if she were praying for herself, and I was moved to tears. Her prayers lifted me spiritually and brought me to the feet of Jesus. I cried deeply, producing a sound I did not recognize as my own. In that moment, I broke, I was wrecked, and it marked the beginning of a renewed relationship with the Lord. We have shared difficult truths and cried together before, but nothing compared to the magnitude of this experience, at least for me. I realized that I had not been as transparent as I believed. I saw a woman who was broken, and I sensed that the Potter truly wanted to restore me, though I was hesitant to confront what I would find. Daughters of Fire, it is a blessing to have friends who see and hear the weakest parts of you and love you regardless. It is beautiful to be seen even in your brokenness, and equally amazing to be vulnerable with those who genuinely care.

Daughters of fire, a voice message, a dream from a friend, marked the beginning of a spiritual healing journey. I went on a fast, and immediately my vision was restored! I began to dream again. There were parts of me that were broken that I never realized needed healing. It’s in Jesus that we find healing. His presence renews and restores us. Healing comes when we are honest with ourselves and with God. Healing happens when forgiveness happens. Healing happens when our flesh is crucified, and we walk in the Spirit. Healing happens when our earthly nature has been put to death. What are you paralyzed with? Hurt? Fear? Insecurity? Comparison? Competition? Shame? Maybe the past has paralyzed you, and you are afraid to become vulnerable with the Lord. Are you paralyzed by emotional distress? Are you paralyzed and doubting God in your single season, because it seems like you’re stuck there? Do you feel paralyzed in your marriage? Daughters of Fire, if this is you, my prayer is that you would be lowered before the Master, the Deliverer, the One who has suffered just as you are, but can bring healing and comfort to your mind, body and soul. I love you, I’m praying for you, but Jesus loves you best!