Scars

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We all have a past. Thanks to Jesus, our past does not define us. It is just our past. In Christ, we have a present and a future. We may bear the scars of both victory and defeat in battle, but they are just that, scars. Our scars are a part of us, some hidden and some unavoidably visible, but they can only shape us when we give them the authority to do so. God’s forgiveness is both real and complete. Paul understood the emotional pain of regret. He knew the physical pain of being beaten. His scars went deep. It’s at this point that many would argue that he deserves the right to have a breakdown, to give in to anxiety or depression. Oh, woe is Paul! That is not, however, how Paul saw it. To live was to live for Christ and be an encouragement to others. To die was to be present in heaven with Christ forever. Paul knew that life in Christ is a restored life. Scars are not the remnants of old wounds. They are the signs of God’s healing. They are not permission to dwell in and bemoan your difficulties or past pain. They are reminders that God has already brought you through much and he will continue to strengthen and heal you. Your scars are His glory on display for the benefit of others. We don’t seek after them, but in Christ we bear them well.

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