Weekly Reflection – Growing Pains

I have a vivid memory as a child of going to bed one night but not being able to sleep.

I had a strong aching pain in both of my knees. It didn’t feel good and I wanted it to go away so I could get some rest. My Dad figured I was experiencing “growing pains.” It didn’t really matter to me what it was at the time, I just wanted it to go away. My Dad tried to help by bringing in the “icy hot” to put on my knees. Like its name, it comes on cold and gets irritatingly hot. My eight-year-old self did not care for the icy hot one bit and screamed bloody murder to get it off. I quickly decided all was well and I would just suffer through the original discomfort.

I was not a fan of these so called “growing pains”, however God is the ultimate creator. And due to these growing pains, thankfully my legs are a normal adult length and size now!

I think God provides us continual opportunities for growth as adults in a spiritual sense. That growth can often be painful and we desperately want it to subside as quickly as possible. We may even try the equivalent of icy hot to get it to stop. We can become cold and isolated or hot and bothered. Sometimes both at the same time! It is in our nature to run from discomfort but sooner or later we realize that “icy hot” doesn’t work and we need to tackle the root cause of the original pain. God is good and He is our creator. He knows what we need and never gives us more than we can handle.

How is God growing you right now? What does God say as you seek him?

Glory in his holy name, let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! 1 Chronicles 16: 10-11.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your soul. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11: 28-30