Last week I danced in the kitchen. I twirled. I shook.  I boogied. I danced like no one was watching because no one was–except God.

I danced because an overwhelming joy had filled up my heart brought on by the realization that a regret from long ago in my past had been eclipsed by a quiet and secure confidence.

I am right where I belong. God really did know what He was doing. Even though there were times I doubted that any good could come from what happened back there, now I am sure it is as it was meant to be.

Ah! blessed internal freedom!

“But Lord, why so long? Why did it take so very long for you to bring me closure? Why did I struggle so? What did I receive from all those tears, wondering if I had made the right decisions? Why did I always question if the choices I made set my life on a trajectory leading to the regret that haunted me? What did I receive from all those years of internal struggle?”

Stories, Shana. You got stories. And these stories produced life lessons for you to share with others.

“Oh, beloved, priceless, precious stories! I know those redemptive kind can only be received through pain. Yes, Lord! These stories and life lessons are worth it! Totally worth it!

There truly was no other way. A testimony that transforms never comes easily. How could I ever comfort others if I never received comfort myself? How can I share a story someone can relate to if I never received one from you?”

“Christ. . .who comforts us in all our tribulation , that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” (2 Corinthians 1:4. NKJV)

Those who have received comfort, can comfort. And without pain we don’t receive God’s comfort. No pain means no blessing.

On this side of my dance, I would not give back the struggle. I am finally at peace with the past so I can move into the future with clarity, without the burden of regret. Praise you, Lord!

Are you struggling with regret? Do you doubt God can use what happened to you in the past? Hold on until you see the blessing He has harvested from your experience. He never wastes anything in the lives of His children. And, never doubt He is at work to use your story to fulfill His purposes for your life and bring Him glory.

Additional Resources

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