There is more to life than all the troubles and sorrows that may come. There is joy and hope in life amidst the hardships. There is a way through every challenge and a purpose to every experience.
I grew up living very conscious about the many insecurities and weaknesses I have. There were a couple of heartbreaking moments where I felt abandoned and forgotten. I have seen and heard many hurtful encounters which made me hesitant and timid. But over the years, God has been good and generous to let me see the goodness of His love and the warmth of His care through the people around me.
Looking back at all the moments of triumph and defeat, God really did not abandon me. One specific moment in my life where God has intimately revealed His mighty yet gentle love was when I was on a journey of healing from a diagnosed mental disorder. It was April 2023 when I found out that I was suffering from Major Depressive Disorder. I was in the middle of my last semester in college when I encountered this heartbreaking news. The years of hurt and unpleasant memories took a toll during a crucial season of my student life. I felt weak and lost, but His grace allowed me to seek professional help and special care from my family and friends.
It was only then, when I let my weaknesses out in the open, was I able to really undergo the right way of healing. After a year of medication and a deeper healing journey, I was able to recover from depression. God used the gift of family, friends, and community to help me heal and move forward. It was not a smooth journey, but God and the people around me were patient enough to love me in the way I needed to. This journey has revealed so many beautiful hearts who were willing to walk with me in the middle of the storm. They were God’s extension of strength and hope. I know that I wouldn’t be able to overcome that season of my life if not for the support and prayers of my loved ones. It was also through the gift of mission where I saw constant hope and joy. I have found purpose in the chances God gave me through serving Him.
When the wounds of our painful experiences are mended by God, we are able to see and hear things clearly. When our hearts are held by the loving hands of God, we are able to experience life with gratitude and a great sense of care towards others. When we let God see us through, only then will we receive the deepest longings of our hearts.
There is a way through life’s sorrows because we have a God who is not indifferent to our sufferings. God deeply knows and loves us. God can restore our hearts, memories, and relationships. I believe that it was all because of God’s grace that I was able to heal and live life with greater joy and purpose. I am holding on that it is also the same grace that will bring me wherever He calls me to.
