Outfit & Thoughts || Burgundy Top // When Jesus Doesn't Fix It

   Hello all! It's about time for an outfit post, isn't it? A couple of weeks ago I had an impromptu shopping session and found a few new things, two of which I'm sharing today. In addition to a new look I would like to share a few thoughts with you about a subject that's been on my mind lately.

   Today I wore an outfit to work that included a new tunic top and dress pants. My boots are also a fairly new find; They were just waiting for a riding-boot fan like myself to find them at a local consignment store! One thing I like about this ensemble is the new neckline style that adds a fashionable touch to a comfy t-shirt. Indeed, this entire outfit was comfortable and easy to move in.

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Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.
I Peter 1:3-9

This passage of scripture is filled with the joy and hope. It's one that I have often read, and it came up again in yesterday's Sunday morning sermon. Though this applies to many aspects of life, I'd like to apply it in the context of anxiety, depression, and other forms of mental suffering. Just like physical diseases, these things can be anywhere from uncomfortable to totally debilitating. And just like physical suffering, the sufferers cannot just "snap out of it". The renewed mind struggles against the diseased flesh. Even more discouraging, Jesus doesn't always fix it. 

Though God can and sometimes will heal us in the here and now, that is not always His purpose. Often, this is extremely frustrating and even angering. However, where there is discouragement in the Christian's life there is also hope. As with any kind of trial, our faith is refined through our mental pain. We can also look forward to the day when our bodies, including our troublesome brains, will be new and untouched by the Fall. Life is never going to be completely beautiful and easy on this earth, but that isn't the promise of salvation. May we live joyfully for Him here while still longing to painlessly glorify Him for eternity.