Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Yesterday I was so upset I could not hear the Lord. Who knew it was going to be a learning lesson for me? The Lord.

I’ve been trying of late to understand my fellow Christians better. Not to know them as individuals so much but to try and understand their obstacles to growth in Christ. I will not say that what has happened to me over the past days applies to every Christian, but it might apply to some.

The assumption on my part that sin stands in the way is not valid in all cases where growth in Christ is concerned. There are some in Christ who have conquered their battle with sin through faith. Praise the Lord. That does not mean they have come closer to Christ. Yes, they have won a huge battle and it is so important, but that is but one battle.

When I found forgiveness at the cross recently something happened I did not anticipate. A flood of emotions I had buried and had not dealt with came flooding in. Once I let go of the pain from my past through forgiveness, I unlock all the feelings I had been suppressing along with the pain.

I understand this is just me and this situation does not fit everyone but if it helps just one, then it is well worth it. What was blocking my hearing the Lord was not a distancing of self from Him, it was strong emotions. God gave us feeling to be used in His service. Compassion and understanding are vital parts of service. They are not meant to take over our lives, to be lost to them.

Holding on to the peace of God in the middle of emotional turmoil is a difficult thing. I see that now.