As children most if not all of us had a toothache at one time or another. Of course, we knew if we went to our mother, father or loved one, they would give us something that would deaden the pain so we could rest, sleep or play. But if did not go to our mom, at least not till the pain became very bad, we know she would take us to the dentist the next morning. However, we typically want immediate relief from pain, but we could not get it without having our teeth set permanently the right way. 
Similarly, we might not always want to go to God right away when we have a problem or are struggling in a certain area. We know the Lord could provide immediate relief from our pain, but God is more concerned with dealing with the “root” of the problem. Pun intended. Now, we may be afraid God will reveal issues that we are unprepared or unwilling to deal with.
In times like these, it is helpful to remind ourselves the Lord “deals with us as with sons” as it says in the book of Hebrews. God’s discipline, though perhaps painful, is wise, and the Lord’s touch is loving. God loves us too much to let us remain as we are; God wants to conform us to the likeness of the Savior. God’s purposes of love can be trusted more than any of our emotions of fear.
We can trust, God’s hand of discipline is a hand of love.
Truly, it is only as we take our pain to God, we discover how through love we can get the true relief we seek. Share when have you taken your pain to God and receive more than just relief of an immediate irritation? Leave a comment, your share will bless another. Plus, I will write you back.
See you next Sunday.
MJ