The Pain That Comes With Renewal

In the previous episodes, we talked about the transformation of the caterpillar. We connected that transformation to our own lives, recognizing that sometimes we need to remain silent. Sometimes we need to disappear for a season. Sometimes we need to deconstruct certain things so that we can rebuild. And sometimes we need to change form in order to become who God wants us to be.

We also saw that there are seasons when we need to be hidden, just as the caterpillar is hidden in its cocoon; protected from predators, away from unnecessary exposure, and in a place where what is happening inside cannot easily be seen or interrupted.

Sometimes God allows us to be hidden so that we do not become too predictable while He is working within us.

Today, there is another important aspect of the transformation process that I would like us to understand:

As human beings, we like things to happen quickly. We like the “microwave” approach—we want everything immediately.

We do not want to suffer. We do not always want to learn the lessons that are hidden within our experiences. We do not always want to take the time necessary to learn, grow, mature, and move through each stage of the process.

But the truth is that some transformations require time. And some forms of renewal involve pain.

Consider the Eagle

We know the eagle as a bird of strength and power, capable of soaring to great heights.

There are seasons when an eagle loses old or damaged feathers and goes through molting, a natural process in which old feathers are replaced by new ones. During this period, the eagle may not appear as strong or impressive as it normally does.

Something old must fall away so that something new can grow. During renewal, it may appear that much has been lost. Strength may seem diminished. Appearance may change. Familiar abilities may feel limited.

But the eagle does not lose its identity: It is still an eagle.

It is simply going through a season of renewal, that is an important lesson for us.

Sometimes, while going through our own process, we may feel as though we are losing things. We may not feel as strong as we once did. We may not recognize ourselves in the same way.

But a changing season does not necessarily mean a lost identity. Sometimes, you are simply being renewed.

Maintain the Right Attitude During the Pain

In the same way, there are seasons in our lives when we experience pain.

But we must learn to recognize that pain can sometimes be part of a larger process.

Your painful season does not automatically mean that everything is over.

You may be in a process where God is preparing you, strengthening you, teaching you, and developing something new within you.

Isaiah 40:31 tells us that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength and soar on wings like eagles.

Renewal does not always mean avoiding difficult stages. Sometimes, renewal happens within those difficult stages.

You do not gain new strength by constantly trying to escape the process. There are moments when strength develops as you allow God to work in you through the season you are experiencing.

So remember the image of the eagle.

The difficult season is not its final destination.

It will rise again.

It will regain strength.

It will fly again.

And perhaps that is the message you need to remember today:

You may be in pain, but you are still in the process.
You may feel weak, but you have not lost your identity.
You may be in a season of renewal, but you will fly again.

Until we meet again, continue trusting the process, continue allowing God to renew you, and remember:

You will fly again.