Analogy of a Tattoo

I believe God is always with us even when we think he isn't. No one laugh but God spoke to me through one of my new tattoos....ok, stop laughing I'm serious! He showed me how he is the artist of my heart, my life and is in control. Let me explain....

I went into the tattoo shop back home last Wednesday, the night before I gave the artist and idea of what I wanted on my wrist. I gave him 3 symbols: a cross, a heart and a dove. I wanted basic and simple. He asked me if he could create a design and if I liked it he could tattoo it. I said "sure" but in my mind I thought I know what I want and how I want it. So when I went in Wednesday I was a bit nervous to see what he came up with but to my surprise I loved it!!! He created a cross, heart and dove coming out of a cloud...it is a smokey color around the cloud and white in the center. To me he captured what I wanted but didn't say...Even in darkness God's love can shine through by the work done on the cross which brings peace.

Now today I am in what I call the "icky" stage of a tattoo...it itches and is scabbing...yuck! I can see the beauty of what it will look like but these layers of skin must shed on their own. I must be patient, if I scratch it or pick the scabs it will cause the color to be uneven because it has not healed. The beauty of the design created by the artist will be compromised. If I neglect the needed treatment 5 times a day of applying lotion it could also cause problems. I must be patient while the process is taking place.

So how did God speak to me you may be wondering...

Right now in my life I am dealing with my past and in the process of breaking off toxic relationships. God showed me that he is the artist of my life. There is pain at times but in the process he is doing a new work. The layers must be cared for then when its time they will shed so the beauty of the work he has done will shine through! Be patient and know he is in control even when it seems so unbearable.

During this process of healing and growing in spiritual maturity I realize God place leaders in our paths to help us and guide us. I have had to learn to trust others with my past and have faith that God will heal.