Through the Valley of Griefনমুনা

“For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”

-1 Peter 2:25

In seasons of contentment, it can be difficult to recognize our harmful patterns and sinful tendencies. When life is good, we forget how desperately we need God’s direction, his overseeing of our soul. We are quite content to do our own thing. This is why even unjust suffering and trials are beautiful in God’s Kingdom. When loss or uncertainty strips you of the illusion of control, you have a renewed chance to release the reigns of your life and hand them repentantly back to the Lord.

As you grieve and endure, you’ll have moments when your ugliest flaws come surging to the surface. Are you impulsively lashing out at loved ones? Relying on unhealthy habits to numb? Seeking comfort with unsafe people? Don’t hang your head in shame when you react sinfully to this suffering that’s pressing in on you. You only need to surrender your sins and race back into the arms of Christ, the Shepherd and Overseer of your soul. He will receive you with a greeting of grace (John 10:11).

What sinful action or reaction can you release to Jesus today? Confess it, thank him for his incredible grace, and leave the shame behind.