In one of my videos, “Am I Lazy?”, I briefly shared about my battles with chronic pain—specifically from complications of the shingles virus. Contrary to popular belief, shingles isn’t just for the elderly. It can reoccur in unexpected ways and cause long-term damage.

Recently, I experienced a flare-up, and with it, I found myself slipping mentally back into a dark place I thought I had left behind. A place I thought I was delivered from. But in the midst of my pain, God, in His infinite love and grace, revealed two powerful truths to me—truths I believe will encourage you too.

Truth #1 Thoughts and Emotions Aren’t the Enemy

When we’re in pain—physical or emotional—our thoughts can spiral, and our emotions can feel overwhelming. In moments like these, I’ve caught myself thinking, “Why can’t I just stop feeling this way?” But God gently reminded me:

You don’t get delivered from thoughts and emotions because they’re part of who you are as a living soul. Instead of seeing them as enemies, see them as tools. Your thoughts and emotions are a compass—pointing you in a particular direction. But here’s the key: You have to hand that compass over to the Ultimate Director.

Proverbs 3:5-6 reassures us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Your thoughts may point to fear, and your emotions may scream overwhelm, but God knows the way. Trust Him to guide you, even when your internal compass feels off.

Truth #2 God Preserves Us Through the Pain

During my flare-up, I felt stretched thin by responsibilities and wondered, “God, do You even care? Why can’t I just catch a break?” But in that moment of questioning, He brought His Word back to me:

“I am your preserver.”

This truth was deeply comforting. It reminded me that while my circumstances may feel out of control, I don’t have to be in control—because He is. If He is preserving me, then there is purpose in the pain.

2 Corinthians 4:8-10 beautifully captures this: “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.”

Here’s the part that truly struck me: being preserved doesn’t mean we won’t feel the effects of pruning. We are meant to be impacted and molded by our circumstances. Every trial chips away at the parts of us that no longer serve God’s purpose, leaving behind only the image of Christ. Sometimes, God intentionally keeps us in a state of vulnerability, brokenness, and dependency—not to harm us, but to shape us into the people He has called us to be.

Why Does God Allows Brokenness?

As much as we’d like to feel invincible, that’s not God’s plan for us. He doesn’t want us to rely on our own strength or be our own preserver. Instead, He uses our brokenness to teach us complete dependence on Him.

In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul writes: “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

When we’re weak, He is strong. When we’re broken, He is whole. And when we fully rely on Him, we experience His power and love in ways we never could on our own.

What This Means for You

In your season of pain or pruning, know this: God sees you. He knows your struggles, and He is not distant from your suffering. In fact, He’s using it to draw you closer to Him.

Don’t be afraid to hand Him your compass, your pain, and your questions. Trust that He is your preserver, and even when it feels like you’re barely holding on, He’s holding you.

Prayer For December

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being my preserver, my protector, and my guide. Lord, in moments of pain and vulnerability, remind me that I’m never alone. Help me to see my thoughts and emotions as tools to lead me closer to You. Teach me to trust You with my struggles and to rest in the knowledge that You are in control.

Thank You for using my brokenness to show me Your strength and for working all things together for my good. I surrender my pain, my fears, and my questions to You today. Fill me with Your peace and remind me of Your love, even in the midst of difficulty.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

My Monthly Favs

Air I Breathe- Sondae ft. Isabelle Brown One of my favourite things is discovering new artists who love Jesus and different sounds. This song is like a hug for your ears. Listen Now

Barkeeper's Friend My mom loves watching cleaning videos and heard about this cleanser. It has been such a game changer! Grab It

Roubit: Cute Self Care App After my flare up I told myself I needed to start being more intentional about my well being which would mean, proper planning, prioritization and habit building. I found this really cute app that has been so helpful on my journey and I just had to share it with you. Download Now

Bible Quiz Who said the Bible can't be fun! In an effort to help you get excited about God's word, I'll be dropping a quizzes and games in my monthly newsletter. This month is a fun word search! Play the Game

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Am I Lazy? What God Revealed to Me Watch Now

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Wherever you are in your journey, know this: God is not finished with you yet. He’s using every moment—yes, even the painful ones—to shape you into the person He’s called you to be. Trust Him, lean on Him, and allow His grace to carry you through.

Grace to You and Peace from God,

Rachel