Painful Verses

Have you ever, because of certain events in your life, stumbled upon a Bible verse and winced as you read it? During a very difficult season in my life, I was unable to read Psalm 139 without hurt, anger, and frustration. So, I chose to avoid it, because every time I read “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb” (v 13), I could only think of the pregnancy losses I had experienced.

Until one day, when forced to read it as part of a Woman’s Bible Study, I realized something. This verse not only applied to my losses, but to me personally. God knew when I was in my mother’s womb the struggles I would have. He knew how the struggles would draw me closer to Him. What a difference it made to know that! It’s still a section of scripture that pulls at my heart when I read it, but the bitterness is no longer there.

Today, another popular verse came up in casual conversation regarding family, and I find myself wincing again. But instead of ignoring it, becoming defensive, or allowing bitterness to settle in my heart, I’m choosing to embrace it. I’m going to say, “Okay God, here it is. What do you want to tell me through this tough verse?”

I’m actually looking forward to it.

Are there painful verses in your life? Sections of scripture you’d just rather skip over? I encourage you to read through the hard words, and ask God what He is telling you. It’s worth it!