I love the idea that while our trials and suffering aren’t something we’d wish on anyone, God can use them to help anyone who’s going through the same kind of testing. So often we’re tempted to hide our testimony due to shame or regret, but we forget that those very moments might be what God uses to set someone else free from a similar kind of shame and guilt.

If you think hard enough, you can probably bring to mind at least one person who walked with you through a hard season. It was their experience and wisdom that helped you navigate the tricky terrain of your circumstances. You have been blessed to be a blessing to others, and you have received encouragement so that you can pass it on to those in your life who need it at least as much as you did.

My pastor used to say that grace means that the part of your story that you swore you’d never tell anyone becomes the first part of your testimony. It’s never to highlight your sin but to showcase God’s grace in how He pulled you out and redeemed you from your sin.

God doesn’t waste your pain. Nothing you go through is ever in vain. He works all things — even your worst moments — for your good and His glory. I just love the way God works!