The 2x4 vs. the whisper

How interesting that we all seem to want change. Change in direction-career, relationships, family dynamics, friends, or location...or just plain change! I was listening to an interview with a teacher and I immediately reflected on my days teaching high school students. Coaching students through some of the most difficult times in their lives brought back a reality...we all want the same things. We think external change will solve the problem. Change relationships, change jobs, change money habits, change something and then we will be comfortable. Maybe, just maybe we are not supposed to be comfortable. Growth happens in discomfort. I was reflecting on how many times God created discomfort to push me on to the next level of growth. He whispered my name and called me to move, but much like my normal response..I ignore...I need confirmation...until finally the 2x4 across my head calling my name through circumstance catapults me out of my comfort zone. I cry with such vigor and scream at the pain until I stop, drop and listen. I listen to the direction from the one who created me, knows me, and knows my future. He is calling me and is calling you to greatness. If we coast down the mountain side we don't develop the muscles necessary to climb up the other side and a sunset gains its beauty from the clouds. A perfect sunset does not have the same colors of brilliance as the one with clouds. Clouds are the part of the sunset that take beauty to a whole new level. I am learning to embrace the clouds..to stop and appreciate the growth opportunities that hurt for a season, but if I allow will reflect the brilliance of God, my creator. Pain with purpose.