From Dan Beedell, Communications at east to west:
“I don’t know whether you’ve experienced this, but there are times in life when we face a period of growth which is especially intense, painful and difficult. It affects our sleep, generates anger or frustration, and leaves us feeling like a shadow of our normal selves. Those around us, in trying to be helpful remind us of key bible verses such as “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
(2 Corinthians 12:9) or “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds…” (James 1:2), but that can often be unhelpful and, certainly in me, generates the reaction of ‘shut ya face’! We find that what we want is not words or sentiments, but someone to lighten the load, to help carry the burden, to stop whatever it is that we’re going through… and I wonder if this is because we lose sight of hope… the end, the reward or the ultimate growth.
I’m going through this type of period at present. My natural inclination is to become introverted, self-reflective and even experience bouts of melancholy. By nature, I’m a bottler – someone who bottles things away, suppresses them and crams even more on top… Then, like a fizzy drink that’s been shaken, the contents will spray out everywhere when the lid is opened. So, this time, I’m trying to do it differently. I’ve accepted the fact that I’m in this painful growing period of my life, but I’m choosing not to allow it to define me. I don’t know how this period of growth will ultimately affect and change me but I find this quote from car manufacturer Henry Ford really helpful: “Those who walk with God always reach their destination.” Whatever happens and whatever growth occurs, it’s by walking with God we get to where He wants us to be. That’s the hope, end, reward or growth that I’m fixing my eyes on.”
east to west endeavours to provide that contact, that person who will enable young people in such intense, painful and difficult situations to unburden themselves and find a hope on which to fix their eyes. Please support their important ministry with your continued prayer, and pray for Dan as well. You can sign up for prayer emails via their website: /www.easttowest.org.uk/