Beauty Instead Of Ashes

[The LORD has sent me] to bestow on [the brokenhearted] a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.

Isaiah 61:3

Sometimes you can find yourself so blinded by disappointment that you can’t see Jesus walking with you through your heartache. You probably aren’t thinking that things will get better. But Jesus does walk with you through disappointment and despair—and He has hope for you in the process. Why? Because He loves you. And He wants to reassure you and show you that God has plans for you beyond your disappointment (Jeremiah 29:11).

When you face disappointment, be honest. Look to your healing Lord for His promises of beauty, joy, and a praising spirit. You can pray, “Lord, I don’t understand why all this has happened. But I do know You want me to keep walking, to keep looking for You and the beauty You’ll bring from these ashes.”

It could be helping someone who is dealing with hurt and heartache. It could be something else beyond your imagination. But hold fast to the promise: God will be with you, and He will bless you as He lifts you up.

Lord Jesus, Your promises are a balm to my soul. Show me more how You bring beauty from ashes.