Let me start by being real. Life can be messy. And I'm not just talkin' a no-makeup-dry-shampoo-messy but I mean the real hardcore stuff. I mean messy as in the things that bring you to your knees like cancer, infertility, marriage problems, kid behavior problems, self-worth issues and financial struggles.

What do all these things have in common? Well for one, they all stem from Satan. They are in no part caused by God. But on the other hand, in the midst of any of these trials, God is at work and has the power to make all things beautiful. 
A lot of people don't like to talk about things like this because they are just plain heartbreaking and ugly and I am by no means giving glory to the devil (he sucks by the way). I do, however, want to set something straight that many people assume and then become confused by.

Just because you are a Christian doesn't mean you are exempt from trials but it does mean that you have the answer to every problem on your side : Jesus! And sometimes when our problems and prayers aren't answered like we want them to be, it's hard to see past where we are in our journey. Be encouraged.

There is beauty in all things. Why? Because God is good. His very nature is good and so that means that everything that flows from Him is beautiful. He created you in His reflection, perfect beauty. And He will take your messed-up junk and restore it back to far better than you can even imagine. Learn to embrace where you are and find the beauty in all things because even when you don't feel or see it, God is with you and He is for you. He is restoring every part of His bride so that she is clean, spotless, and BEAUTIFUL for His return.

This is a good life—my heart is glad, my soul is full of joy, and my body is at rest. Who could want for more?
You will not abandon me to experience death and the grave or leave me to rot alone.
Instead, You direct me on the path that leads to a beautiful life. As I walk with You, the pleasures are never-ending, and I know true joy and contentment.
Psalm 16:9-11

Blessings,
Joanna