Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to speak with a lot of women about their challenges and hurts, from everyday life situations to life-altering events. It’s been a privilege to have been trusted and given the opportunity to pray and stand with so many.

One of the things I’ve noticed is that no matter what the circumstance, there’s always a journey one has to take—steps, a process, some sort of path to get to the other side. Whether it be two days or two months, the journey itself is part of the process.

It’s not a checklist, and often it’s not a sudden miracle. It’s a refining process!

(Let out those loud “ughs” and eye rolls now!)

The truth is, it’s only the ones who say, “Okay, let’s walk it out,” who come out the other side stronger and with a sense of knowing God more than ever. Not that they stepped out immediately, but after a season of grieving, they made the decision to make an effort. What’s been even more shocking is that in spite of the circumstances, those are the women who still have a sense of hope and real joy. Not every moment of every day, but it’s there underneath it all.

I learned a long time ago about the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control!

They are not fruit brought about by our own works, but by having a closeness with the Holy Spirit, which is why they are called the fruit of the Spirit. As we take steps to walk through the process of healing—through the fire—what comes out as a result include

• peace that passes understanding,

• joy that only comes from the Lord,

• a renewed faith, and

• love and kindness for others who experience the same after you.

It’s all part of the refinement—the healing—and it’s how we know we are walking through true healing that only comes from God.

So, as we dive into healing, I challenge you to take stock of what fruit of the Spirit is evident in your life. And if it’s hard to find, it might be time to press into the Holy Spirit a little more and take the first step. That might be asking for help, praying, going to a small group, seeking counseling, or just admitting you were hurt. Whatever that looks like, you won’t be alone and the grace of God that you hear so often about will be with you all along the way.

XOXO,

Heather

Heather Frierson

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