layers

"and not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope."
romans 5:3-4

usually when i start painting something, i have to remind myself that it's all about the layers. the first strokes are never my favorite, in fact, that's when those pesky voices in my head start to sound off- 'this isn't going to be good'... 'you don't know what you're doing'... 'just stop now, don't waste anymore time'...

but then layer upon layer, the thing starts to take shape and the painting comes alive for me. i get into a groove and i don't want to put my brush down! by the time i'm finished, it looks completely different than when i started... and i love that.

i'll never know exactly what God's doing, ever. He'll lead me somewhere or cause me to do something that might seem crazy or impossible, but it's all contributing to the artistry He has planned for me. He'll bring situations and circumstances and people into my life that all add color and dimension. even those night seasons, the dark shadowy strokes, are needed and beautiful because they contrast and emphasize the light that's painted.

every layer is important, and that's a lovely, hopeful, praiseworthy thing indeed. :)

"take the old prophets as your mentors. they put up with anything, went through everything, and never once quit, all the time honoring God. what a gift life is to those who stay the course! you've heard, of course, of Job's staying power, and you know how God brought it all together for him at the end. that's because God cares, cares right down to the last detail."
james 5:10-11

praying that you would stand in steadfastness today, enjoying each layer. :)
xo!
ash