Healing Takes Time

Healing takes time. It's a process. I never would have guessed that it would take over two months for my back to heal after I had a single mole removed. But infection slowed the process down and made it necessary to have a few extra stitches put in. When the sutures are removed, I'll still need to take it easy and give the area a couple more weeks to heal before returning to my normal activity. Wow! Remind me why I elected to have this procedure in the first place?!

In spite of the ridiculous amount of time it's taken me to recover, I'm glad the dermatologist insisted on removing the mole. It was the kind that would have become melanoma. Yeah, I've been reminded - excessive sun exposure is NOT a good thing. I promise I'm retraining myself and have become good friends with sunscreen. Dealing with the problem area instead of ignoring it, gives me a great prognosis and the opportunity to heal completely.

I'm reminded of the gentle, yet probing finger of the Great Physician. When I allow Him access to my heart, it's much like my trips to the dermatologist. I'm acknowledging that He's the Specialist and trust that He will find and point out any 'abnormalities' in my life. I can say with the Psalmist David, "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting," (Psalm 139:23-24; KJV).

He's faithful to answer my prayer. I give my consent for Him to perform 'surgery' - removing the thing that is harmful to me. The cut is painful, but necessary. I'm well aware of the area that's been operated on, and realize it's tender. God's Word acts as balm, separating truth from lies. The process of healing begins.

But it's not always quick. Sometimes my memory lapses and I fall into the same old patterns and a twinge from the site of the 'incision' reminds me that healing is not yet complete. An 'infection' might even set in, requiring the Great Physician to re-open the wound and probe a little deeper. His intention is never to hurt me - but to bring full healing.

Following His 'post surgery' instructions will ensure a good outcome. Replacing what was removed with God's truth, will prevent future infection. "With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee," (Psalms 119:10-11).

Making regular check-ups with my Physician rather than avoiding them, keeps me aware of problems that need to be dealt with and gives me the best opportunity to experience true healing. "The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward," (Psalms 19:9,11). Time to schedule an appointment, and let the healing begin!

Has it been awhile since you've scheduled an 'appointment' with the Lord? What steps do you need to take in the 'healing' process?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your patience with me. In addition to pointing out what needs to change, You're always willing to provide the strength to help me do so. Remind me not to fight Your process of healing. In Jesus' name, Amen.