Beauty For Ashes Journal

I've been through a lot recently and I am considering writing about some very painful things here in my blog as I examine my past abuse and wounds. A wonderful friend has helped me tremendously by offering great advice, a listening ear and by following God's instruction in guiding me to read Isaiah 61:1-3. We discussed in depth vs 3 and what those things that God said He was going to do in Zion meant, and how it applies to me today. I'm very thankful for him and for his compassionate heart. He knows who he is. :)

Isaiah 61:1-3 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.

If I will give God my mourning, He will exchange it for gladness. If I give God my heaviness/depression, He will give me the garment of praise so that, I can be rooted and grounded like a strong tree. I'm finding He is doing just that.

God has perfect timing and just about a week later, this book was recommended to me by a counselor I began seeing. She suggested that I keep a journal and write down any emotions, thoughts, physical reactions, etc. that I feel as I read. So if I get adventurous, I may decide to have a paper journal and an online journal recording those things.

I read the Introduction today and it sounds like it may be very beneficial to me in learning how to deal with past abuse. At the end of the introduction she did quote my favorite bible passage or what I've heard termed "life verse" which is "Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him."

I know this will be painful. I know I will cry. A lot. I know that it will be for my good. Jesus said that even the branches that bear fruit will be pruned, so that they can bear more fruit. I trust God to prune me with tenderness and love.