by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan
After Hurricane Helene swept through our area, Bailey and Liam enjoyed their Fall Break at home, and we faced some challenges with our electricity. While we lost a tree in our front yard 🌳, we were blessed to have minimal damage to our home, especially considering how much more severe the destruction was in areas to the north and east of us.
During this time, Bailey ventured out with Liam in search of leaves for her forestry project 🍂. Armed with envelopes, they roamed around, determined to find the right species. Ironically, despite living next to Gum Swamp Creek, surrounded by a plethora of Sweet Gum trees, Bailey spent her time searching elsewhere for the elusive gum ball pods. I couldn’t help but laugh 😂 as she overlooked the abundance available right at home.
Eventually, she and Liam returned to our yard, where they discovered the broken tree—a casualty of the storm—offering an easy opportunity to collect leaves and specimens. As I reflected on the debris from the downed tree this morning, Jesus urged me to take a closer look at what was in front of me.
He spoke to my heart, saying, “What is broken and diseased cannot stand. Many people return to what broke them and live in that disease. However, WHAT LIES BEHIND IS RUIN! WHAT LIES AHEAD IS VICTORY!” ✨
This revelation struck a chord with me, especially as I had been praying for my friend battling alcoholism. Just like the broken tree, we each have our own brokenness—mine being rooted in pride and strict independence. My tendency to cling to this facade had separated me from the Life Giver, the One who offers abundant life.
John 10:10 (NIV):
✨“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”✨
This morning, I left the remnants of my pride and false independence in a pile in my yard, surrendering it all to Jesus. I told Him I only wanted Him moving forward. As I got back into my truck, my purse toppled over, spilling its contents. Jesus gently reminded me, “See, sometimes you fall, but I will pick it all up and dust it off. Your faith makes it all okay.” 🙏💕
What a magnanimous and Sovereign God we serve! His grace continually washes over us, reminding us that no matter how daunting our circumstances may appear, He is always in control. Each moment of doubt and struggle is met with His unwavering support, guiding us through our trials and leading us toward restoration.
In my journey, I’ve seen firsthand how God transforms our brokenness into beauty. As I reflect on His faithfulness, I’m filled with gratitude for the countless times He has lifted me up and encouraged me to move forward. Thank you, Lord Almighty, for your unwavering grace and guidance. May we always seek the secret place where Your presence dwells, knowing that there, we find strength, healing, and an abundant life filled with hope.
Reflection and Application
This post encourages us to recognize our brokenness while looking forward to the victory God has in store for us. Just as the tree needed to be cleared away, we, too, must clear the remnants of our past to make room for God’s promises. Let’s remember:
- Surrender: Let go of what weighs you down and trust in God’s plan for healing and restoration. (Philippians 4:6-7)
- Seek the Abundance: Often, we overlook the blessings right in front of us. Look to your surroundings and see what God has provided. (James 1:17)
- Embrace the Journey: Understand that sometimes, falling or stumbling is part of the journey, but God is always there to pick us up. (Proverbs 24:16)
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I ask that You guide us in recognizing our brokenness and encourage us to turn away from what harms us. Help us to surrender our burdens to You and embrace the victory You have prepared for us. Give us the strength to carry on even when it is so hard! Amen.
Scripture References
- “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
- “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)
- “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)
Hashtags
#VictoryInChrist #Healing #Surrender #GodsPromises #FaithJourney #Restoration #Grace
Feel free to email me or comment! I would love to pray for you today. JGS
The Aging English Major 