We live in a fallen world so we are bound to have them. We are constantly faced with shattered dreams, unexpected losses, and hurtful relationships. The pain we experience may be intense, but it is still our decision whether we turn to God or worldly fixes.

Sometimes we try to put our hope in our wealth, possessions, relationships, or abilities. These will only offer temporary feelings of well being. They cannot give us the quality of life we are longing for. Money and things can be stolen or lost. People will fail us. Positions are fleeting. The only hope we have is that God and His Word never change.

God has promised us His presence and His overflowing peace to those who suffer. In Psalm 34:18 it says: “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart: and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”  He also tells us not to let our hearts be troubled in John 14:27: “Peace I leave you, my peace I give you unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

It is easy to turn to the world, the devil is constantly saying, “Look, try this. You will feel better.”  God wants us to turn to Him. God wants to be able to teach us a truth about Himself, so we can help others. God wants to use our heartache for His glory. Sometimes the pain and heartache we experience is in our lives so we can become more effective in our ministry to others.

In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, we read how God comforts us so we can comfort others. “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort: Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”

So remember the pain or brokenness you are feeling today may be the platform for your ministry tomorrow. You might be listening to the devil right now. He is always telling us, “God can’t use you.” We may be cracked or broken but we are still useful. I read a quote the other day that said, “Broken Crayons Still Color.” God can still use us. Look at all the people in the Bible He used.

David was an adulterer, but God said he was a man after God’s heart. Thomas was a doubter, but God allowed him to touch His side so he would believe. Moses was disobedient and temperamental, but God used him to set the Israelites free. Rahab was a prostitute, but God used her to protect the spies. There are many more examples.

I know for some of us it is not easy to share our testimony with others. I know I fought with God for two years before I let mine be out there for all to read. God wants us to share our life with others.

All we can do is show them our broken pieces and scars, encouraging them not to go down the same road. Or maybe we help the person who already has the scars by showing them how to move past them. When we share our struggles with others we allow our scars to become our battle cry. The devil can no longer tell us that our scars make us useless. We all have experiences that qualify us to help others.

So, What has God brought you through and Who can you help?