Walking out of pain and into a place of splendor.

Living in this fallen world means facing pain, from rejection and disappointment to shame and regret. These moments often catch us off guard, even if we think we’re prepared. Recently, I faced a situation that opened the door to past pain, flooding me with emotions and heartbreak.

One moment brought back the feelings of the past, pushing me into a corner, struggling to process it all. Oppression knocked, and depression flooded in. The enemy amplified negative thoughts, making me feel isolated in a dark place without hope.

Yet, the Holy Spirit chased me with light, hope, peace, joy, and love. Scriptures on peace, joy, and hope surfaced, lifting my spirit. The battle raged — follow Jesus out of the hole or stay in disappointment and fear. Praying in the spirit became a lifeline, bringing about life-changing moments.

“The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of distress; He cares for those who trust in Him.”

‭‭Nahum‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭BSB‬‬ https://bible.com/bible/3034/nam.1.7.BSB

My faith increased, and mentors prayed me through the storm. Acts 3:2–11 mirrored my experience — sitting at the gate called “beautiful” while life lacked beauty. God intentionally pulled me from darkness, just as Peter raised the man at the gate.

God, my peace, joy, healer, and deliverer, fed my hungry soul. In painful seasons, accepting Jesus or running to Him became essential. Praying in the Spirit, listening to worship songs, and trusting in God’s word were lifelines. Worship became my expression of trust amid the storm.

“The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is set securely on high.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭25‬ ‭BSB‬‬

I reached out to mentors and carefully chose confidants to walk with me. Even when life felt bleak, I trusted the author of my life. If you’re in a storm, accept Jesus or run to Him. Let God lead, even when life feels challenging. Trust the author of your life.

“But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭7‬ ‭BSB‬‬ https://bible.com/bible/3034/jer.17.7.BSB