Monday I wrote about the hard days when you feel like you’re between a rock and hard place with no way out, and it can feel like you’re doing something (everything!) wrong.
But what if hard doesn’t mean wrong?
What if hard means that God is birthing something new and beautiful in you and what you’re experiencing is labor pains?
What if He is birthing strength, dependence, a deeper understanding of His character, patience, love…?
Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new. It’s bursting out! Don’t you see it? Isaiah 43:19 MSG
One of my best friends from high school delivered her first baby in the car.
Alone.
She said she kind of felt like she had to go to the bathroom and there it was – “bursting out” as Isaiah says! Unfortunately, this is not a common occurrence.
According to our birthing classes, (and my experience) :
- Birthing is painful, but the results are worth it.
What if you’re living out a similar rhythm to Jesus’ death and resurrection?
John 16:21-23 “When a woman gives birth, she has a hard time, there’s no getting around it. But when the baby is born, there is joy in the birth. This new life in the world wipes out memory of the pain. The sadness you have right now is similar to that pain, but the coming joy is also similar. When I see you again, you’ll be full of joy, and it will be a joy no one can rob from you. You’ll no longer be so full of questions.
2. Breathing is integral to birthing.
What if you take a minute to breathe in a name of God that is His strength and breathe out what you need? Like, “Prince of Peace… still my fears.
3. Labor and delivery are easier with a focus – visualizing.
What if you stop to close your eyes and imagine you are sitting by a beautiful rushing mountain stream.
Think of your fears or worries and one at a time, place them in the water to wash away, praying “Lord, I release my fears to You. Help me to trust You and not grab them back.”
4. Labor is easier with an encouraging “coach” who loves you alongside.
What if you seek out a Christian counselor?
Choosing counseling is not an indication of failure, but rather a brave victory – a wise choice to dig deep and move towards greater emotional health and self-understanding.
If you’re not the one feeling anxious, worried or alone, maybe reach out and text someone today:
You’re not alone. We’re in this together. I love you.
Or if you are feeling anxious, worried or alone, or have at one time, some of the most comforting words you might share are:
Me too.
