No one wants to have their heart crushed. But being wounded in deep places happens. Sometimes it just seems to be part of the rhythm of life.
And when these hard times come, we feel it all so very deeply. And we wonder if others have these hard, hard moments. After all, we don’t snap pictures of the crushing times and post them on Instagram.
We just wonder if we have what it takes to survive …
… when the doctor calls and says he needs to talk to me in person about the test results.
… when the teacher sends one of “those” emails about my child.
… when someone I love closes their heart and turns their back on me.
… when I feel so utterly incapable and unable and afraid.
I suspect you know the tear-filled place from which I speak.
So, let’s journey to the olive tree and learn.
To get to the place I want to take you, we must cross the Kidron Valley in Israel.
John 18:1-2 tells us, “When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it. Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples” (NIV).
Jesus often met in the shadow and shade of the olive tree.
The olive grove mentioned above is the Garden of Gethsemane. This garden is where Jesus, just before his arrest, said to Peter, James and John, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” (Mark 14:34, NIV).
Jesus knew the crushing-heart feeling. He felt it. He wrestled with it. He carried it.
And I don’t think it was a coincidence the olive tree was there in this moment of deep sorrow for Jesus.
The olive tree is such a picture of why our hearts must go through the crushing times.
The crushing times are necessary times.
First, in order to be fruitful the olive tree has to have both the east wind and the west wind. The east wind is the dry hot wind from the desert. This is a harsh wind. So harsh that it can blow over green grass and make it completely wither in one day.
The west wind, on the other hand, comes from the Mediterranean. It brings rain and life.
The olive tree needs both of these winds to produce fruit — and so do we. We need both winds of hardship and relief to sweep across our lives if we are to be truly fruitful.
The crushing times are processing times.
Another thing to consider about the olive tree is how naturally bitter the olive is and what it must go through to be useful. If you were to pick an olive from the tree and try to eat it this month, its bitterness would make you sick.
For the olive to be edible, it has to go through a lengthy process that includes:
washing,
breaking,
soaking,
sometimes salting,
and waiting some more.
It is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness.
If we are to escape the natural bitterness of the human heart, we have to go through a long process as well … the process of being cured.
The crushing times are preservation times.
The final thing I want to consider about the olive is the best way to preserve it for the long run. It must be crushed in order to extract the oil. The same is true for us. The biblical way to be preserved is to be pressed. And being pressed can certainly feel like being crushed.
But what about 2 Corinthians 4:8, where it says we are “pressed … but not crushed”? Let’s read verses 8 and 9 in the King James Version: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;”
This was one of the biggest “aha” moments for me standing in the shadow of the olive tree: crushing isn’t the olive’s end.
Crushing is the way of preservation for the olive. It’s also the way to get what’s most valuable, the oil, out of the olive. Keeping this perspective is how we can be troubled on every side yet not distressed … pressed to the point of being crushed but not crushed and destroyed.
I think I need to revisit these truths often:
When the sorrowful winds of the east blow, I forget they are necessary.
When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.
And when I’m being crushed, I forget it’s for the sake of my preservation.
I forget all these things so easily. I wrestle and cry and honestly want to resist every bit of this.
Oh, how I forget.
Maybe God knew we all would forget.
And so, He created the olive tree.
If this spoke to your heart, I recently filmed a teaching in the Garden of Gethsemane for the Uninvited Bible study, and I’d love to share it with you. That’s why I’m giving away 10 Uninvited study packs that include the Uninvited book, study guide, and DVD! To enter, leave a comment below with how this teaching helped you today.
Just today I was lunching with two close friends and two of us were trying to encourage the other of putting the past hurts behind her and going forward. Your lesson today was so “right on!” I’m going to send it to my hurting friend to reinforce what we were hoping would encourage her. It’s always good for me to remember that harsh winds will continue to come my way if I really want to continue to grow – even as I turn 70 years old! Wow! that was fast! lol
Wow. God always knows just what I need to hear and when. This past 18 months have been incredibly crushing as I watched my beloved husband fight and ultimately lose his battle with pancreatic cancer. I find myself laying here awake in the middle of the night just wondering what is God’s plan for me and what is his purpose in my pain. How do I explain to my precious 12 year old daughter and sweet 15 year old son that despite all this pain God is a good and loving Father? I know that I know that I am highly favored and richly blessed because of Jesus but how do we make sense of all this fallen world stuff. Thank you Lysa for continuing to be the voice of God as you abide in His Holy Spirit and follow His will for your life. Your faith is inspirational.
I loved this- perfect reminder on WHY we need both the good and heart breaking events in life. That even when it seems as though everything is going 100% in the opposite direction of what you were aiming for, or even praying for; God still has a purpose through it. And He will use ALL circumstances for the good of those who love Him. He is the only one who knows EXACTLY what each of us must face and push through to get us on the other side of being USEFUL for His purpose and plan. And we can continue to rest in that, even in times of discomfort.
Thank you
Lysa I am years old and live in South Africa.
God is using you in my life in a very big way.
God Bless your obedient Listening to what the Spirit of the Lord is saying and helping me(us).
Dear Lisa,
It is early morning where I am. I thank you for your post today. I have been really pressed lately. I have had a bad fall, horrible insomnia, joint pain, numerous doctors appointments, etc. Yet, I grow stronger in the Lord each day. Thank you for the reminder of being crushed for preservation. God bless you!
It helps put into perspective what I’m going through right now , thank you for being so inspiring
Wow…the last two years almost crushed the life out of me, failed marriage, the death of my twin grandsons, almost losing their mother my daughter, shunned by family & friends, and character assination. BUT God!
Looking for love from man which left me barren & broken, seeking acceptance, feeling unloved…until I opened His Word…changing me from the inside out…
I know crushing times! This is something which would help immensely and would love to win one but wondering if eligible…I live in Canada.
Thank you for this post Lysa. A sister in Christ of mine was encouraging me just before I read this post. I’ve carried a lot of trauma from these moments of “the point of being crushed.” Of course, the enemy knows just where our weak points are and so I’ve had to wrestle with reoccurrences of past pains. And like you said, it is a process. A long process. I have just recently been learning on how to take care of myself and be a friend to myself (I am one of those kinds of people who loves to give but does not know how to accept love and encouragement). I am in the process of learning what kinds of friendships are best for me, again. I am also going through the process of letting it all go to God. With trauma comes fears, comes hurt, comes loneliness, comes sadness, and none of it is ever fun. My sister in Christ reminded me to keep finding those small victories to celebrate. Like so many others, I have gone through my share of hardship and will face many more, but if it were not for these present sorrows and trials, I would not be fighting and struggling to have stronger faith in God. Thank you for reminding me that Jesus felt all of this and more. Your posts always encourage and inspire me to keep up my faith despite the hardships.
Oh what a timely message! Thank you. Your message spoke to my heart as I am going through heartbreaking sorrow following the death of my only brother at Christmas – a Godly man- who suffered horrendous brain injury falling from a ladder. I cling to “the pressing of the olive”.
I have also been reading about the production of the Holy Olive Oil for lighting the Temple Menorah. The process involves the pounding of olives to extract the precious oil ; then the olives sit for several days allowing time for the oil to drain out naturally. Is this demonstrating the time of waiting for”all things to work together for good”. Be Blessed
Longing to journey with Uninvited…
Today, was a recurring image that I’m studying and unlocking beautiful truths from the olive tree. Resonates deeply within…
Hi Lysa,
I’m going through this time right now and I thought that I was being stretched, however; after reading this I think maybe I am going through a “crushing” season. I quit my job very suddenly this past week as a result of an extremely volatile situation with my supervisor and director of my department. After months in a working environment that left me feeling anxious and devalued, and then to go through a meeting where it was me sitting in my directors office while the 2 of them stood over me screaming-that was enough. I can no longer compromise my principles for such a horrible work environment. What has impacted my thoughts more than anything is the overwhelming guilt and burden I’ve laid at the feet of my precious husband now to carry the financial load for our family. He has been 100% supportive and assured me that we will be fine and has asked me to let him have the burden but it’s still so scary. I’m blessed in so many ways and I know that there is a plan for me and that God wasn’t taken by surprise by this. My goal for right now is to put both feet in and serve God like I’ve never done before. Hopefully, like the olive, the best of me is yet to come. I’m going to praise Him through the crushing, expecting a breakthrough!
Thank you for sharing this incredible blog!
Shannon
Love the olive metaphor and so true.
This is a great reminder. Thank you for posting it today!
I know the tear filled place from which you speak. I got yet another phone call about my 12 year old son. This time he missed a detention. I didn’t even know he had been given one. I would love to journey with you to the olive tree and learn. Necessary, processing, preserving are not 3 words that come to mind when I receive yet another phone call or email – but I want them to be. I need them to be.
Lysa, this blessed me more than you know! Thank you!
Woke up feeling very overwhelmed, grabbed my phone and noticed the title “The Crushing Times.” Oh, how I feel so crushed – yesterday was a month that we said our earthly goodbyes to our son – he was born October 4, 2016 with a heart defect, HLHS, that required him to have 3 open heart surgeries. He had his first surgery on October 13, 2016 – the Lord was so very faithful in sustaining Everett and us through these hard moments – there were several other times, but after 2 months in the hospital, we were able to bring our son home. On December 5, we left the hospital with our precious, yet oh so fragile little boy. We were excited, yet anxious, but the Lord was still with us. We enjoyed so many special moments with Everett – his eyes spoke to you and his smile warmed your heart. On December 31, 2016, the Lord called him to his eternal home – his precious, little physical heart went into cardiac arrest – we performed CPR, rushed him to the hospital via ambulance, and the medical team did all they could do, but it was his time to go, so here we are feeling crushed, hopeless, questioning ‘why’ our little guy was taken so soon, but God is good and Everett is with Him. And because of our Hope in Christ, we will spend eternity with him. Please pray for my husband and I during this time – pray that we would continue to lean upon the Lord, being confident that this time, that seems so very overwhelming and despairing, is not our end – the Lord has so much in store!
Oh Jessica… this story touched my heart more than you know. I am on Lysa’s ministry team and I will be praying over your family during this unbelievably difficult time. I am so so sorry for your loss.
Many blessings,
Mary Scott Mercer
LT Ministry team
I have been praying recently about a situation that has caused so much bitterness in my heart and asking God how on earth do I get rid of it. To see those times in a positive light, as growth opportunities, fills me with hope. Thank you for the words. Your timing is impeccable!
It’s been a long season of crushing but God has been faithful even when I’m not. Would love to be able to do this study with some friends that are going through some tough times too.
Once again Lysa, you have spoken God’s truth into a situation going on in my life with perfect timing. Thank you for your ministry.
Thank you Lisa, This devotion spoke to my heart.
Sorry…Lysa?
This spoke to me this morning. It was a good reminder that the good and bad – WHat we see as good and bad God has a hand in. SP it make it all good because HE is making us useful – whole – complete!!
Thank you Lysa! I am in the middle of one of those crushing times and was having a hard time this morning wanting to continue on, it’s seems so much easier to give up some days. This devotional was the encouragement I needed to lift up my head and keep on walking today and I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate it! Thanks again!
Thank you Lysa! I hesitate to say this but right now I’m not going through a crushing time! But have and definitely will be again. Will mark this so I can refer to it when those times come and will share this with friends who are going through crushing times right now! God bless!
Thank you for that encouraging devotion. I have wrestled with God a lot the last few years after going through a long string of one hard thing after another. The loss, rejection and abandonment of people have made me question God’s presence in my life. I would love to have the Uninvited study to dig deeper.
Thank you for this….widowed at 41 and left to raise a 9 month old, 6 year old and 10 year old. Six years later and I still have very hard days, especially as I try to help my children. The illustration of the olive tree will stay with me and I will share it with my children. Thank you.
I love this! When I read this it actually makes me think of a girl that I work with. She has recently gone through a break up and has really had a difficult time. I know she believes in Christ but doesn’t have a close relationship with him. We have prayed and prayed with her and it is amazing how she will not just let God take control. She will not just give it to God. So when I read this I immediately thought of her. I have told her many times there is a reason for this storm. Thank you!
Kay Smith
Would love the uninvited bible study, I am so enjoying the Finding I am study!!
I feel like I am in the crushing time. It must be the time of preservation and remember what the Lord has done for me in the past. To know He is right beside me always and is carrying me right now when I cannot ‘walk’. Thank you Lysa, God gives you perfect timing for me to hear!!!
I am so crushed right now that I can’t feel anything.
I am so crushed right now that I can’t feel anything.
Sometimes….like today – I am so lost
Wow! This is exactly what I needed to hear today. Thanks for sharing this.
Thank you Lysa for the word, you are so right, I have been crushed and pressed, but not broken. Christ has been there for me always- so I know He wants me to be the best!
Blessings
This lesson helped me realize that I’m not alone thatvthere are brothers and sisters that are experiencing far more crushing times then I have been through. It also was enlighting
as to the comparison of an olive tree, to learn that what the olive tree needs to bear fruit and to be cured of is exactly what we need as a follower of Jesus.
What a great visual your description of the olive tree is! I would love to do/share this study with friends.
This was perfect timing as I just got the call from the doctor yesterday telling me to come back for some additional tests.
Lysa,
This topic so deeply touched me. I know that feeling and how it is to be crushed on every side. I have been hurt, betrayed, and taken advantage of. I don’t believe that anything happens by mistake. When some of the things that happened in my life took place, it really hurt me very deeply. All that I could do was cry and pour my heart out to God. I know that things happen for a reason and I don’t take it lightly. I know that God is teaching me and preparing me for something bigger. He either wants to strengthen me, to grow me, or to build character in me. When I am feeling crushed, hurt, or abandoned, I try to remember that I am not alone, that God is right there beside me. He comforts me with His word and reminds me that He loves me more than I could ever comprehend and that all hope is not lost. Yes I will go through hurts and disappointments, yes I know that there are times in my life that have been down right hard. I know that it may be for a day or even for a season. But, joy comes in the morning. I continue to put my hope and trust in God knowing that He sees me, cares deeply for me, and that He knows what’s going on. I will never give up on God because God never gives up on me.
I remember making Greek olives as a child with my mother. She would always say the salt is so necessary for drawing out the bitterness and that this process will take time. I have been praying for a loved one for over 20 years. I will not stop because hope may be just around the corner. The olive tree is a great word picture for me of perseverance, yielding delicious fruit. Thank you for sharing this much-needed, heartfelt message.
I’ve certainly experienced seasons of crushing, and didn’t even realize that I’ve been in one until recently. Thank you for this message of hope to continue moving towards Christ in this season. I love that we need both winds….such a great analogy for life.
I sure needed this today. My husband and I (with 6 children I homeschool) are going through some difficult times– he lost his job last month and he is struggling with hope …….
My middle daughter is going through very trying times in 7th grade. Between her bad decisions, her distractability, and her learning disabilities, she is facing disciplinary action from the administration. To the point that we are being forced to switch her from the school she’s at. It’s such a trying time! On the one hand, my daughter was at fault… on the other hand, she is my daughter, who I love, who loves God,… how to make this a growing experience for her? How to show her acceptance in the face of such rejection!?? Talk about a “crushing time”! 2Cor. 8-9, 16, 18 has fit me like a glove!!!! Lord! I need your direction! Allow my daughter to feel my love and yours!!!! That unconditional love ❤
Wow, Thank you, I never thought of it that way, God is always good and I am thankful!!!!!!!
I love this beautiful pictures of why we must endure the hard times in life. It is so fitting for me right now with some tough issues. I have gone through the Uninvited study, but would so love to do it again and even use it with a group of others that I feel it would help tremendously. Thanks for the opportunity.
Thanks for the lesson on olives. I have a friend whose husband was in a motorcycle wreck in November. It’s been a terrible trial during the recovery. I want to share this post with her. Thank you
Thank you Lysa for sharing this teaching! The crushing is so hard to endure but knowing it’s for my greater good and God’s got me is what always gets me through. My crushing has mostly happened through the very thing (human) I was promised early in life, my marriage (husband). We’ve been married for almost 25 years! As I’m coming through the crushing I’m finding my identity is definitely in Jesus. He truly is my strength and my salvation, my deliverer and the one I can trust with every little part of me!!
Thank you for being Radically Obedient! (The first book of yours I ever read was Radically Obedient Radically Blessed and it helped change my world!!)
Thank you Lysa,
This is just what I was looking for to hear from God..
I am being crushed now to know that a healing is on me from the MS and all the hurt in the past year..
I am a strong women of faith and your teachings have opened my heart and spirit to growth I did not know I had in me.
I would love to share your Uninvited Book with others that I am growing a relationship with.. You see I don’t have a close friend and the family I grow up with and my Mother are the winds in my world.. Yes it hurts to a point of feeling like a failure and will never have a relationship with them.. They are all close together but I’m the black sheep and now God and you are showing me why..
I can not thank you enough for being in my head.LOL
Your words and thoughts are mine we are one.. You have been a Blessing to my walk on this path that the light seems to go dime and next I’m reading your words of encouragement that are in the Bible.
May everyone around you be Blessed,
Thank you,
Joy Renzelmann
920 374 4923
Manitowoc, WI
Thank you Lysa, for your wonderful messages! I just started reading “Uninvited” . My family is a mess and I am trying to pull them together and stay strong and feel myself growing bitter. I am trying to survive the desert winds right now! Help!!
I am Jewish and have been crushed by family relationships for the last 44 years because I received Jesus as Savior and Lord. I lost family and friends. My only sibling wants nothing to do with me. My mom passd away 2 weeks ago, so we have had to have close contact. Without Jesus, I could never have made it this far.
The Lord has used this teaching to touch my heart and remind me that He knows every step of my walk and has never left me. He is continuing to make me into he image of His Son.
Amazing how God know what I need to hear. I awoke this am with a “crushed” heart from a family member, a child. These words keep me from caving into to how the enemy wants me to feel, beat down and forgotten. I will be renewed by His words and knowing Jesus too felt as I do so I can overcome and continue to pray for this child. Thank you.
Wow! I never imagined when I checked my email this morning to find exactly what I needed to help me through this day. Thank you for all you do.
You speak to my heart. It’s like God is saying to you …. “Hey, Claire needs to hear this.” Thank you for serving God through your ministry. I’m plan to do your Uninvited study even if it’s by myself.
Thank you, this is right on time. Alot of things pressing me and this is a great reminder of how God is at work in the painful t things in life.
Thank you for the information on Olive tree that was helpful during my time of what feels like crushing.
Wow how timely this is and even though I am so thankful for these true words I am still feeling crushed. I believe God is trying to teach me to not be consumed by others thoughts of me and to only been concerned about pleasing Him, but I can’t please my boss (or anyone right now it seems) and it’s consuming me, crushing me. You see, I’m a teacher, it’s my tenure year (yes, I know in my mind that God will put me where He wants me, but I’m struggling with concern over where that will be) and I want to do what I’m supposed to do but it’s so hard to be positive because I feel I don’t do anything”right”.
It breaks my heart to read some of the previous comments regarding the crushing times some individuals are going through. I’m very blessed to not being in those times at the moment though we all know they will come. I send up prayers to all those who posted earlier who are struggling. God is good!!
A few months ago when you did a devotional on the Olivetree it really touched me because I was out of my house due to the flood in August and also I’m going through a separation from my husband. I desperately needed an Olivetree! So I asked my daughter to paint me one for Christmas. She gave me a beautiful picture with olive branches and The verse from 2Corinthinians 4:8-9. I I am now back in my home and have this picture hanging on the wall over my prayer chair. I sit under my olive tree daily in prayer!
My Dad has cancer and has been very sick. We found out he was sick 3 days after I came from the hospital from having my second child. It was as you said a crushing moment. His odds were not good and he was going to have to start treatments immediately. I nor my family were prepared. We thought he had hurt his back in a dirt bike accident…NOT CANCER. The last year and a half has been very overwhelming with him being sick, 2 stem cell transplants, and losing so much weight. My Dad who had always been so strong was and is still very frail. I feel like we have been pressed and crushed from every angle. Dad is finally starting to feel more like himself and has been a really good month compared to the last year and a half. However, we know it will come back it is just a matter of when. We are trying to appreciate the good times while preparing for the bad to come back. I really needed this lesson this morning and I thank you for taking the time to write it!
Thank you for sharing. Today made it so real why I am being crushed at times…it is because it preserves me. Your analogy was the perfect word picture for me!
So appreciate your teaching and breaking the Bread of Life for us, Lysa!
Thanks Lysa. I know I’ve been through difficult times. And I know more are coming. But in the end, I can see His pressing and shaping of my heart.
My heart is softening. My heart is understanding thanks to you. I love this blog post and the Finding I Am bible study. You have a gift of touching hearts!
A very timely reminder that God loves me and won’t crush me. EvEven though it may feel like my heart is broken and unrepairable. Lord, hold me, let me feel your love flow into my soul. Lysa, may God’s love and blessings continue to flow over you and your family.
My heart is sad, as you talk of the crushing of the olive tree, I had some one very close, who I cared about , took care of her children at the drop of a hat, was like a 2nd mother to her and her family, and at the drop of the hat, she no longer knows me, speaks to me, or even acknowledges me. like I never existed. Now in the past week, we lost a very dear friend, suddenly,, and our nieces’s son underwent a stem cell transplant, in very serious condition, will be hospitalized for months to come,,So we pray that his body will not reject this donor marrow,. what a lot of things to deal with, on one huge pile..So Many prayers have been repeated over and over,, I just need to know that God hears my prayers..
My oldest son has recently turned his back on me, my husband, his two brothers and essentially the whole family. The pain is almost unbearable. I never dreamed this could happen. Your story of the olive tree makes sense. I’d love your book. Maybe it would help me understand a little more. Thank you.
Dear Lysa,
I am a school teacher. I teach second grade. I love these children! Some days I feel pressed. The pressure of trying to get it all taught to prepare them for the next year, the pressure of behavior concerns and the pressure of making sure they know how very important they are. I teach public school. I can’t tell them that they have a Heavenly Father who loves them, but I can show His love to them. I ask God to show me every day what I need to do to show His love to His precious children. I know He’s with us, because I invite Him into my classroom every day. Thank you for your lovely encouragement and strength you share with us every day. ❤️ Love,
Renee
This teaching is times just right for me. My family has been going thru a rough time for the past 3 months on many sides, from financial to kids struggling in School behaviorally to being pulled in different directions at my job. All of which has put a strain on my marriage. Thank you for reminding that this is all part of me being preserved!
What an awesome analogy and reminder!
Just last night I logged out of all social Media. This morning alls I could do was check my email & there was your email. I get them all the time but to be honest I never take the time to read them cause I’ve just been so wrapped up in social media that I shorten my time in the word for it. I read your email this morning and it really touched me because I slso struge with understanding God’s process in our lives. I desire a very personal intimate relationship with him in hopes that I won’t question his motives for my life, I have just been unsucessful in that. Last night I told myself I was gonna put down my phone and pick up my bible & I’d love to do your study. I hope youll consider me. Thank you
This lesson comes at a time in my life when life seems somewhat “blah” and dreary. It’s actually difficult to pinpoint the actual description of my “now”. I don’t feel my best, I am concerned about the “what next”and I am trying to hold on to the promise of Jeremiah 29:11. I long to walk in the peace of God’s purpose yet, found hope in today’s lesson. Thank you.
Tks Lisa,
Just what I needed to hear this morning. Having a. very min or surgery today and am stuck in fear.
However I know I must take these steps in order to feel better.
Being crushed is part of the process to get perfection.
Thank you for your continued work and words.
Recovering from surgery from cancer diagnosis and feeling pressed going down this unfamiliar road. I was so encouraged by this essay.
Thank you for being sensitive to God’s leading and sending this my way this morning. My daughter is going through one of those crushing times in her life right now, so subsequently I am as well. When we dedicate our children to the Lord as babies, we know that God is always with them. It just seems that all of the other influences sometimes take over and God’s presence is crowded out by difficult circumstances and heartaches. I’ve encouraged her to rest in the Lord and allow Him to carry her through this difficult time and I believe God is faithful and will help her to do so. I just want to be the best mom I can be and point her to the Savior. Lord Jesus, forgive my unbelief. Thank you, Lysa, for being a dedicated servant to Christ and using your passions to further His kingdom. Have a blessed day.
This encouraged me by reminding me that this is a biblical truth, that we all are pressed like the olive. I need to revisit this anytime I feel like life is getting too hard.
Your words today spoke to my heart and give me hope. In the last 2 and a half years I have grieved many losses. My mother in law, my mother, my father, my dog that I had for fourteen years, and most recently one of my dearest friends to suicide. My husband and I have both dealt with health issues through it all. My emotions and my very being have been on a roller coaster. In the midst of all the grief, pain and heart wrenching questions God has provided some of the greatest blessings I’ve ever known; moments that were nothing short of a miracle. Thank you for this beautiful analogy about life and hope.
Lisa, thank you for this devotional. I am going through a season of grief. My sister went home to b with the Lord unexpectedly 2 months ago and the death angel has called quite a few of his seasoned saints at my church home to be with the Lord. This devotional spoke to me this morning and said ” Be Still !!!, I will see you through all this heart ache and pain. Just as there is a process with the Olive to make it edible, there is a process for Grief. Please lift me in prayer. I need the dry and the rain to help me grow stronger in the Lord and not become Unglued!
Such good encouragement today…. years into a painful home situation, and bitterness tries to creep in again and again. So good to be reminded of the olive press and Who is doing the pressing. Thank you Lisa for your spot on words every single time.
Dearest Lysa and Proverbs 31 Ministries: truly your olive tree words and writings spoke deeply to me and served as the balm of Gilead to my heart and soul a few moments ago. You are ALWAYS a joy to me. Our dear son, whom I died for – and was revived again by the Lord – 30 yrs ago, left our ministry with his wife, crushing abt 10 young people they were mentors to – as well as us (and especially the 4 youth who we adopted 10 years ago who were healing from abandonment issues).
We are all going through exactly what you described and even though I feel numb in many respects, I understand the heart of our dear Lord in all of this now, because I read your email this morning upon awakening.
Having been to Israel 22 hrs ago and being in the Garden of Gethsemane – it was an anointed and deeply moving spiritual time. But no one had ever explained the life and significance of the olive tree like you have, ever before. After your trip to the Holy Land and as I vicariously read your takeaways from the trip – WOW – what greater illumination you brought to the surface that helped understand things I’d skimmed over as a younger Christian in my earlier walk 22 yrs ago. So today, I sit here feeling pressed, heartbroken and crushed – and I’m sure my dear miracle son and his wife do as well – as there is a void in our relationships, the grief that my husband (Pastor daddy…) feels is deep and threatens his health as he seems to become bitter toward them – Lord have mercy – and I don’t know quite how to fix it. So I will wait on the voice of the Holy Spirit and I thank Him for talking to me today through YOU. May you and yours be continually blessed and please keep us lifted in prayer. I would love to share your Uninvited teachings with our ladies and youth. Love you in Jesus’ name,
Kathy Crawford
Greater Loving Word Church
http://Www.glwci..org
Thank you for this today as I feel I’m being pressed from all angles and trying to not fall down
A beautiful reminder of God’s fullness for our lives.
I’ve never read suffering from this perspective before. Thank you. I have always thought about burning off the dross as Peter taught. Thank you for this teaching. I’ll be reminded of it when I use olive oil to cook. 🙂
I have been enjoying and sharing snippets and stories from Proverbs 31 since I found you several months ago. I volunteer at our local prison and offer bible studies and counseling for the incarcerated women. I would love to be considered for your offer of the UNINVITED study guide and teaching! I want to encourage you in your journey, Father has gifted you with insight and the written word. You encourage and enlighten your fellow journeymen for sure. Keep rowing Lysa :0)
Lysa,
This is so true! The crushing, the pressing, the ways God works in us to get us where He wants us. Those times can be so painful, but after going through some this past year, I can look back and see what His plan was. I used “Uninvited” in a group of sisters in Christ and saw amazing things happen in our lives.
Would love to share the study with an angry, bitter sister who needs truth, repentance and healing in her life. She has “uninvited” me and many others who love her; she needs Jesus so badly right now.
I needed a reminder of God’s purpose through the pressing times. It’s so easy to lose sight of the bigger plan. Praying for each of us being refined today.
Thank you for the needed reminder. When pain comes I want to run. I have been learning recently that is where the good comes from. No deep sorrow right now but I pray for when it comes to remember what I have learned. Thank you for posting…it’s a blessing to me that touches the deep places if my heart. God bless
Yesterday was a crushing day for me. I cried more than I have in years.. wounded by the ones I love. This message today helped in a way that nothing could yesterday. Lysa seems to always have a timely message for me. God uses her to speak to my hurting heart. Thank you, Lysa, and thank you, Father, for words of hope and healing!
I’m already reading Uninvited and doing the Broken Way study online! They so go together, it’s great! Thanks.
A friend recently lost her husband to cancer and my mind goes round and round with all she is dealing with. I pray for her every day, but now I will add that during this time she will grow as well from this pressing in on her. thank you
My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. I find myself trapped in my partner’s sins. Sadly the complexity of it and financial stickiness has put me so that I have lost my extended family as I once knew them. I am holding it together for my husband and kids as best I can, but it is difficult. I have few to talk to. This passage was hopeful and I appreciated the lengthy processes/time/faith it takes to push through to yield those olives. I am thankful I read your passage today.
Yes. This plus the proverbs 31 devotional reminds me that sometimes things die, sometimes we feel crushed but God always gives good and perfect gifts. My marriage turned abusive but I am out and God has a perfect plan for me & my disabled son. Amen!
Thank you Lysa! Your teachings always speak to my heart!
I have been in this place for the last week or so. I finally broke down yesterday and had a really good cry. I couldn’t figure out what was going on in and around me. Then I opened my email and saw this post. This post reminded me that God is simply preparing me for the next transition of my life. He is allowing me to persevere right now so that I can truly see all that exists within me. It’s my cleansing process so that the oil that will begin to seep out will be good oil. Thank you for this implanting of hope into my spirit.
Thank you for the message and lesson that I can apply to my life as well as share with others. There are so many people who are hurting, but this message will give them hope. Also, now I see why the pictures of the olive branch is on your book “Finding I Am.”
I’m going through some tough health issue, just the reminder I needed, thanks.
A great analogy to have for those times when I’m being refined by the trials of life! Opportunities for growth…aren’t they wonderful? Thanking God for again providing for every circumstance.
Crushed to be preserved. Crushed by years of spousal caregiving followed by his death 3 months ago. Crushed during that season but preserved for this one.
Lysa, this particular devotional helped make it more understandable why God has taken me through the things He has. In 3 years I lost my mother, brother, a cousin and my 2-year-old grandson. I had just come out of a year of unemployment with family and friends supporting me with a place to stay, food to eat, and many prayers. My new boss would prove to be harsh, critical, and unethical. I have prayed so hard to understand why God lead me through this journey, but sometimes we are too close to the situation to see. I can now look back and see His hand through all of it and know that like the olive tree, I can produce fruit that is useful. I can offer support to those who are heartbroken, to those who feel they have no hope and to those who are walking the journey of grief. This reading today confirmed His love for me and the reasons I needed to be crushed, processed, and preserved.
Thank you, Lysa!
I so often forget! I am definitely standing in the harsh wind these days at my job. Trying to balance the hardships at work, with being a mom to a toddler and being pregnant again has seemed too much to bear at times. My heart’s desire is to stay home with my babies while they are babies. I feel that Satan knows that and is causing even more disarray in my workplace. There are times I don’t know how I can go back the next day. I know that I am supposed to be the light in a dark situation, and that I am being pressed but not crushed. I know God has placed me here for a reason and I am trusting Him to fulfill His promises. I needed this today!
I love the illustration of the olive. It helps to understand why we go through the things we do & to know that Jesus experienced the same feelings & heart aches for us!
Loved this devotion this morning, I can think of many times that I have been crashed and now I better understand the purpose of that. Thank you so much. My Bible study group is doing what happens when women say yes to God right now they love it. We would like nothing better to go on from this into the study you are offering Uninvited! Thank you for saying Yes to God
I thank you & I thank God for you. This was such a beautiful illustration for us visual learners. Going through a season of grief, as I have experienced those winds of change, as my husband drew farther away and God placed people around me who could love me well. The “processing” was certainly the most difficult time of questioning and learning and waiting. Now, divorce, the “crushing”. But thank you for reminding me this is not the end, but a new beginning.
Thank you for this message! This was exactly what I needed to start my day with. I really did feel like this was another crushing time right now but now I have a different perspective. It’s not crushing and I need this pressing time to grow and thrive.
I never understood the timing and specific process an olive had to go through to be ripened. The parallel between the olive and the difficulties/process we have to go through to be fully ripened is amazing. Seeing the importance of each stage and how there is a purpose behind it makes it so much easier to understand, press sin and go through. Thank you for this “ah ha” moment!
I am crushed today. It is my marriage, again, which interestingly I thought wouldn’t happen. I needed to be reminded that not only will I go through tough times, I must go through difficult times because it strips me to humility and at God’s feet where I am loved so deeply. My question today has turned from “how do I get rid of this pain the fastest way?” to ” How do I grow today?” Thanks Lysa
I feel as if I’ve been in the crushing phase for so long that I must be missing what I’m to learn or just caught up in so much sin I don’t even realize. It’s very difficult to not be dismayed yet I hope Lysa’s study would help me find a new perspective.
Your thoughts about the olive and the need to get the best through the pressing and processing struck a chord with me. We are going through some tough times and its easy to just want to give up and end it. I will use this perspective to Press On!
This was beautiful. I am a mother of two daughters and married to Stephan. Life is not always what I thought it would be. My husband got saved a few years ago and I thought things were going to get better. We would go to church together and show a unified front for our daughters. This was not the case. Things got worse. My expectations were depleated and I have struggled with anger and bitterness for a long time. You see my husband is alcoholic. I teach bible study and it is my passion but I do struggle with how to live the life of a Christian and love my husband when I can’t hardly stand to be intimate with him. He is a very caring person…tender and loving but this anger has taken root and I need forgiveness and direction from God to stay. I stay because I don’t want to hurt him but I worry I’m hurting my girls. They are 20 and 13.
But thank you for this word. It is encouraging. I know God sees and knows all of this. And He is still God.
How astonishing is God’s timing? This specific blog post has come to me at a time where I’m being “pressed” for a much bigger purpose. God is making this olive into the lavish oil she needs to be. It’s so hard and I want to quit at every turn, but He is beside me encouraging me to move forward. And what is so great is that He is showing me that my “pressing” is not only for myself. It is to help others that He has entrusted to me. I am so blessed that our Heavenly Father confirms our “pressing” over and over again, if only to reassure us that it is His will! Praise Your Holy Name Lord! You are Almighty and I will praise You through the “pressing”!!
I should have lots of olive oil by now!! If not for the storm, however, how could I call Him my Shelter?
So much processing needed in this life. Thank you Lysa for reminding me!
This is just what I needed to hear today. We have been going through a really hard time with our granddaughter being sick for months and the drs can’t seem to figure out what is wrong. I feel my daughter is being crushed and pressed on every side but this reminded me, it is for a reason and there is something greater to come out of this. Thank you for your words, they always touch my heart.
I loved the way you used the olive process to connect to our own “gasemitie” moments. The feeling of despair rids the bitterness from our souls. And leads us to depend on the Holy Spirit for supernatural grace to heal our wounds and give us hope!!
Thank you for this I so needed it! I am feeling crushed right now.
I am not new to loving God but I am new to practicing Christianity. I have studied Hinduism and Buddhism and returned full circle to Christianity. My soul longed for the fellowship of Christian Women. There is nurturing found in the lap of Christ that I cannot duplicate elsewhere.
I am not trying to play catch-up. Not with God, he knows my heart but with the language of fellow Christians. I am trying to communicate with a greater understanding of Scripture and its references. I am allowing the Word to permeate me and grow my heart.
I started going through this crushing phase 2 years when I started getting sick and ended up having to quit my job in order to get a handle on all that was going wrong. But God is Faithful and has helped me to see the fruit of what is coming out of this crushing. Surely we don’t understand when we are in the midst but how sweet when we are able to finally see the work that God has done and is doing.
This was perfect for what my daughter and son n law are going thru right now with him starting a new job. Most of 2016 he was out of work and is now making very little. Praying daily this new job will develop into a career.
I would like to win for her.
Wow! This is great truth to speak into all, but especially those of us that are pastor’s wives/in ministry. Thank you!
Thank you. The lesson from the olive tree couldn’t have been more perfect for the season of life that I am in right now. God is sovereign and so faithful but I am weak and in need of encouragement. Your post was a gift.
This was a wonderful reminder that my past choices are a part of who I am becoming. I tend to beat myself up for not making better choices in the past and feel that my children’s suffering today is because I wasn’t a better mom when they were young. Thank you for sharing.
I love olives especially the little green ones in the jars at the grocery store. Your thoughts on the olive were very insightful not only the information about the olive and how they grow. Also you compared their growing under the harsh conditions to our lives and the situations that we often find ourselves in and want to give up rather than going through them and reaching out to God for help .Thank you for sharing your God thoughts through your various Bible studies..
Truly an amazing “aha” moment for me. The scripture makes perfect sense. Enduring hardships and difficulties are for our benefit. It all comes back to a relationship with the Savior. Knowing Him, trusting Him and doing life with HIM everyday should be my desire…everyday!
I am in a crushing time right now with my son. I need to sit under the olive tree and feel the weight lifted off. Thank you for this hope.
The crushing is so hard but the sweet smells of life and a fresh look at the future began to emerge and vague glimpses of a new day are dawning . As a child of God He holds me and then I hold Him –under the blanket of His word.
The times we live in are crushing times. Thank God for His promises to make us holy through them. Thanks for your words, Lysa.
This spoke right to me since we have a friend battling cancer. The ways God uses things in our lives. Thank you Lysa.
I like the east wind/west wind thought, needing both for growth! Thanks so much for the insight you’ve offered. Would love to participate in the giveaway.
The times we live in are crushing times. Thank God for His promises to make us holy through them. Good word, Lysa!
Oh to remember that to be pressed doesn’t necessarily mean to be crushed though it may feel like it in the moment! I pray that I the pressing, I will be refined like olive oil!
I know that God is my resting place whenever my heart is crushed. The phrase “Go to the place that is higher than I” sticks in my mind.
Praising God for his strength and the women who are willing to share their stories so that it may give hope and encouragement to others. Thank you Lisa for this soul searching Bible Lesson that has truly touched my heart. May I be reminded that God is with me when I feel overwhelmed by trials. God Bless You!
Thank you so much for this article. Our Women’s Ministry is putting together our 2017 retreat and planning for the year. Our theme for the year is You are not alone, Jesus is always with you and the theme for the retreat will be Lonely but not alone. This post offers a great explanation of some of the crushing times when we do feel alone. I would love to look into doing your bible study with our wonderful ladies this year.
Thankful that He is always with us,
Martha B Galletta
Penn Yan Bible Church
Penn Yan NY
I recently went through ovarian cancer. I am in remission right now for 4 months. I have 4 years 8 months to go before cancer free. Cancer is my olive tree. I will be fine no matter what happens. God has me in his palm.
The “Uninvited,” series was what God used to begin the process of healing from a deep rejection I had dealt with for a year. Lysa, thank you for being vulnerable and allowing the Lord to use you through sharing your heart and directing us to the true Source of healing. Next week I will begin leading this series with seventeen women. I look forward to the work that God will do in their lives. To Him Be the Glory!
Lysa I am a different person today because of a rare brain disease, with no treatment.
Thanks for your encouraging words. I have been through so much ( like the Olive!) but feel blessed today knowing God is so close to me.❤️
Oh this reminder was needed today! Our family moved recently so our children are in a new school and don’t know anyone. My daughter (3rd grade) has truly struggled this year and there have been lots of issues to work through which are crushing my heart. Thank you for this reminder Lysa!
Full of truth, hard truth, especially about the bitterness that settle in. Great reminder that there is a purpose in the painful times, times of work and not ease. Passing this one along to a friend as well. Thank you.
Thank you for the reminder of how hard, difficult times – refine us to be more like Christ. What a great analogy of the olive tree and those hard times in our lives. I love how God uses every day things to teach and grow us. I would love to walk with you thru the Holy Land on this study.
Lysa, I went to the Israel about 18 years ago. It was one of the most special times of my life. Just wish we had you in our group. Although our tour guide was excellent as far as knowing the area and history, he sure didn’t know the Bible, nor did he know Jesus. I can’t imagine how much wonderful that trip would have been if you had been along with us. I did the Uninvited study and it was fabulous, however, somehow, I missed the video. Can I purchase the DVD? I would love to have it and keep that as a reminder of that awesome trip but most importantly of how God uses these hard, hard times that I have been through in the last 9 months to refine and preserve me. Love you and may God continue to bless your ministry.
Thank you, Lysa for this perspective on trials. It is very timely.
Every time I enter of season of crushing I go into panic mode. I’ve served the Lord a long time – you would think I’d have learned by now that the pressure I feel, the crushing, is God’s way of doing a work in me. Thanks Lysa for the reminder.
This message is so timely. Thank you Lysa for the powerful words and illustration on how we need BOTH types of “wind” in our lives in order to produce the fruit God desires of us. I needed this perspective this morning!
Food for thought – equally important to realize there are steps to processing so keep pressing forward in order to not get stuck in, say, bitterness. Not always easy for me – the recent trials in my life are almost overwhelming. Thank you for this word today.
Lysa, I honestly feel for you. I’ve been where you are and I know how crushed and in despair times will be, but like you said, it’s like an olive that needs to be crushed before it can be preserved and become the beauty that it ends up being. While things are being crushed on all sides, just remember to rest in God’s arms and His peace. He will give you strength…
I searched and searched for a devotional this morning using different avenues of spiritual resources. One resource offers spiritual video’s and so I typed all types of keywords in for how my heart was feeling…sad, tired, upset, angry, help. The media tool did respond with video suggestions to watch for each keyword that I put in, but none of them pulled on my heart strings enough for me to click on them. And so I read a chapter in a spiritual book…it was a good message…but still…no heart strings. Then I opened up my email. I saw a title in the subject of my inbox…crushing times. The first thing that I thought to myself was “really, this title seems to be so appropriate for what I need right now.” And so I clicked on the email and read through it. With each paragraph that I read, two things happened…my heart cried and I felt a sense of peace.
I want to thank you for this devotional this morning. It is exactly what I needed, and will still need for the rest of this week; and maybe even this month. I will share it, print it, post it, and re-read it because God gave you this message, and you listened, and shared it with the many women who needed it today. And for that, I thank you and I thank God.
Much love for what you do*
I thank you for this lesson. I have been the primary care giver for my mom for the last eight months. My mom has dementia and Alzheimers. Since she’s been diagnosed I have visited her for weeks and months at a time. I experienced the negativism, and meanness first hand. When I got my mom I thought that is what God would have me to do. I believed that God had prepared me to be her primary care giver. Needless, to say this has been the most difficult assignment that God has given me. The winds blew on both sides and the storms prevailed in my face. I know this process was to preserve and refine me so that God can get the glory. In due season this olive will be fruitful, processed, and preserved.
My husband and I have been through those times many times over our 40 years of marriage. I needed the reminder that God uses those times. I’ve seen Him within the test, but still panic when a new test comes.
Thanks for the inspirational words this morning. I loved the analogy of the olive tree to our maturing spiritually.
Right now my family is going through the crushing process. Our 12 yr old son has depression and emotional issues. WE as a family are taking this on headfirst…Jesus said it wouldn’t be easy but that he would walk right beside us. I am holding on to that hope and truth. Your Bible study this morning just reminded me of this principle. Thank you Lysa for not being afraid to go deep.
Its hard to understand… why God? Its so incredibly painful to have your dreams crushed when the answer is “NO”. I’m heartbroken but I still cling to Him who is my hope.
This is a read I really needed this morning. Thank you so much. Oh how we don’t want to go through these hard times but we do and it seems after we get through one storm there will always be another. We do come out stronger but they are so pressing and weary. I would love to win and need the teachings.
This really ministered to me this morning
Lysa, WOW! The Lord knows exactly what we need to hear and when we need it! Thank you so much for sharing these thoughts today – it is my birthday – feeling very old today –
I am truly blessed beyond measure and I know the Lord still has a plan for me and my life. Feeling crushed today – but knowing God is at work and He is planning a hope and
a future for me!
Thank you Lysa for speaking truth into our lives and making it relevant!
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 have always been my go to verses when going through hard stuff. Thank you for your perspective, it has brought a deeper meaning to the way God teaches us trust, hope, patience and most important, dependence on Him to preserve us. Looking forward to looking at your new study. This looks like something to pursue with my ladies group.
I love the correlation of the olive tree and situations in our lives. We may be crushed but we are not destroyed. God uses EVERYTHING for the good of those that love him.
This spoke to me after reading this morning, exactly the understanding I needed after the last week I’ve had…Would love to have the study pack!
I loved how you related the process the Olives go through to be of use with what our hearts go through to be prepared for God’s use. This is a very good reminder for when one is walking through the valley with dry bones and a broken heart.
As a mother of 3 small children, I have recently started struggling with anxiety and depression. There are times where I have felt that the darkness is so heavy, there is no escaping. Thank you for sharing this and allowing me to see another perspective.
what an encouragement to read this, as I have a chronically ill adult daughter who has been sick all of her life and many times I ask why. My husband who was offered a job back in the fall with the Gov’t, completed the whole process and was given a hire date of Feb 6, just to be told last week the job is frozen. Now we wait
Lysa,
Thank you so much for sharing your heart. Your post speak to me every time and even more now recently. I am in a season of feeling unloved, unheard, and abandoned by the Lord. So many doors in our life have been closing and none are opening. There are many moments when I feel like I am suffocating and I don’t see any hope ahead. Your posts have convicted me, have helped set my thoughts and mind on TRUE things and have encouraged me. The Lord uses your words to speak into my life. Today’s post was another one that the Lord used. I am so grateful for you and your ministry. Your honesty and transparency speaks to so many. THANK YOU!
Wow, this was so powerful. I never would have associated the olive tree in such a way as you present Lysa. This is definitely one of my favorite posts that I will keep close to my heart as I move through phases of my struggles.
At some point I would love to dive into the Univited Bible Study. I’m fairly new to P31 bible studies and they have helped me learn so much in a way I’ve struggled with in the past. Because of you and P31 my relationship with God is growing stronger every day. Thank you Lysa and the P31 team!
I have been asking God to speak to me and I really feel that this message was his way of speaking to me. My heart is crushed from news I received this week and I will read this message daily to help me understand why this is happening.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I’ve been trying to survive for a long time with a crushed heart filled with bitterness…reading this today gives me hope that maybe God hasn’t given up on me yet…
This spoke to me this morning as I am struggling with so much conflict right now. My heart is shattered by loved ones, circumstances and events. I see now I need this bitterness, I need to be crushed, but afterwards I will rejoice that God has used this and shaped me, and maybe through me, his light will shine and minister to the ones, events and circumstances that broke my heart from the beginning. I would love to be able to do this study.
Thank you, I now realize what I already knew. There have been many crushing times for me in the last five years, but today I am more aware of God’s plans for me. The “crushing” times have allowed me to be stronger, more at peace with the knowledge, that yes, God is present right with me…always. The best is yet to come, in Jesus’ name??
Lysa,
As always, you follow God’s perfect timing.
Thank you so much for your amazing insight.
I would love to win the study pack. I started the OBS but life got in the way and I wasn’t able to finish. I’d love to be able to go through the whole study. Thank you for all you do. P31 blessed and encourages me in so many ways every day.
Thank you, Lysa for your words!! Thank you, Lord, for the olive tree. For the reminder. For you words of life and reassurance and hope and grace and mercy. I feel very much crushed and very much perplexed right now in our family situation; however I know I will not be crushed or destroyed. Using both the east and the west winds to refine me, to make me fruitful, and giving God glory so His work may be displayed in me.
Hi Lysa,
Beutiful teaching and comparison of the olive! Knowing that once the crushing process is completed I will be restored, will bring life to those in need through the power of Jesus, makes me keep persevering.
I love this story because it helps to remind me that hard times and good times go hand in hand and both are essential for growth and learning. I have learned so much from my struggles past and present. God always has a plan even in the hardest of storms
I’ve never heard a teaching about the importance of the olive tree before. What a wonderful lesson!
I have been experiencing a soul crushing, heart wrenching time in my life for quite a while, and I have yet to find the joy in the journey. I cling to the Word of God, His promises to me, & His daily voice to me. This article really encapsulates what this journey is all about. Thank you. (Tears)
How I can touch, feel, smell and visualize this lesson! Thank you for sharing as the Lord shares with you. I am blessed. This helps me on my journey to focus better, to naturally stop to think and consider these moments in my life and to also let go and bask in the wisdom our Lord freely gives…giving me His peace. A welcome “breathing” lesson. I pray that the Lord would continue to bless you, your ministry and your family with His Peace that truly passes all understanding. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
What a beautiful picture and reminder of how God makes beauty from ashes. 8 years ago everything I knew about my life changed. I discovered my husband was having an affair…with someone I considered a close girlfriend at the time. All the dreams for my life, our life, were shattered. Everything I thought I knew about myself, about God, about my need for control, the foundation I built my life on, all came crumbling down. 8 years later I am here to say how incredibly grateful I am for the pressing and refining that came from that season of my life. My foundation was rebuilt on Christ, my true identity found in Him new hopes, new dreams came to life in my heart and as I look at my life today, there is an incredible richness and restoration. A part of me died 8 years ago, but it was a part that needed to so that I could live fully in Christ. Yes I felt crushed, I felt broken into a million tiny pieces. But in those pieces God put me together and created something much better, more genuine and dependent on Him.
To anyone going through a pressing time, lean in to Jesus, He shapes and molds and makes all things new.
Thank you Lysa for sharing your gift of describing so beautifully, how even the hardest seasons of life can also be the most defining, the most precious.
Wow..God really used you to speak to me this morning. I just read 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 yesterday for encouragement to endure what I’m currently going through. This is confirmation again that He is with me to go through my trials, but I won’t be destroyed. I also liked Psalm 56:3-4 to trust Him and not live in fear. Thank you for your honesty and integrity. It is encouraging as well as refreshing to the soul to know that I am not alone in my thoughts…
In my very busy schedule, I usually quickly glance through my morning emails before I begin my work. Your message today really spoke to me and had me concentrating on every word, visualizing the olive tree blowing in the east and west winds. My parents had a ‘shelter belt’ of olive trees planted around the acreage where I grew up. I had never before put any significance into those olive trees, until now. Thank you for your messages that somehow always speak to me so clearly and are always so easy to relate to. I have been crushed, but I am preserved.
I’ve worked at my job for 24 years and may be losing it in June. I have knee problems that seem to just get worse. My husband has health issues we are dealing with. My aged parents are suffering with dementia and heart issues (among other issues). All of this seems to be crushing me at the moment. But…I am not destroyed! God is able. He is loving, He is faithful and He loves His own. I will be satisfied with that! Thank you for this message. I will be sharing it with my staff this week!
Wow, I would love to get this book and study! I have myself walked through many life crushing, life ending experiences…your words captivate the reason so much better then i could the reason we go through stuff. I’ve always landed with there is a purposes for me because I’m still here…God must have something I need to do yet! Which is a statement my Great Grandmother would always say..she lived to 105 or just a week or 2 shy of it.
I have a few new ladies God has sent into my life that I’m pouring into. These ladies are all facing tough challenges…they are facing LIFE. I will share this article with them. But, I would love to gather them together for this study Uninvited. 🙂 Thank you for considering me for a FREEBIE. Blessings back to you and your ministry for sharing.
June
Thank you so much for this devotion. I have been weighed down with worry lately, and I know what I need to do is turn to God. I am seeking a devotional or study that reassures me that God’s got this, whether it’s my personal life or what’s going on in our nation and the world. What would you recommend?
This study really spoke to me today. I have been going through a lot of things in my life. Difficulty in my relationship and also health wise. It is a good reminder that we need these things to grow even though they are hard. Even when we feel pressed down God promises that we will not be crushed and He promises to be there with us in the good and the bad. Thank you for the uplifting message today.
The idea about how the olive first needs the winds to bring life, the processing so it is not bitter and the crushing so as to preserve the oil is very enlightening. I’ve read this post from you before and was thankful to receive it again today by email. Appreciate your insight into the verses. Have a blessed week!
Often it has felt like I am crushed because I am a frail human in a fallen world. It was good to remember that it’s not destruction of me God desires but the changing of me into the image of the One who has made me. The oil of the olive is achieved through its pressing and its uses continue on. But it would be limited in its usefulness if it were not pressed. Thank you for the reminders. I would share this with my BS group if I won it. Thank you for the opportunity.
Thank you Lysa, I am in crushing time, watching my elderly mom become frailer every day. I also work at Biola University and the Lord places many girls in my life that I minister to and hopefully with the Lord’s help, make a difference for them, supporting and encouraging them in their walk as they further their education. I would love to win the DVDs and workbook so that I could share it with our students. It would be a great small group study I would live to lead a group of these girls. The college years can be so brutal for many of them, even in a Christian environment. Most of all thank you for your ministry to all of us! I copy many of your devotions and make them handouts for the girls, making sure I give you credit so they can research your many helpful books, blog and other writings. God bless you greatly in all you do. Love, Peggy
Hi Lysa. My hard part is not letting these hard times and east winds not make me bitter. The weariness of it all makes me hardened and bitter instead of making me more like a delicious olive.
This message about the olive tree spoke to me right where I’m at. For me most of my life I have delt with crushing anxiety and depression and it is only now when I have fully submitted my whole entire heart every part, to the Lord submitting to the process that I am finding healing, peace, joy, and purpose.
Thank you for sharing Lysa! 🙂
When I am going through a storm and feel as if I am being crushed by something; health, work, famimy, friends, there have been many times I felt completely alone and crushed. That the wind was knocked out of me. I WA s asking r he question why Gid? Thinking I must not have value, I have worked my way past that, (yes, it happens again) and start to turn more to God realizing He is my strength to hold.on to. He will guide me to where He WA ts me. He is what I need most and all of the forces that seemed against me were to help me recognize I needed Him, more than. I thou c ht. I was thinking king prior to it all, I can handle what is coming my way. He has made me stronger in many areas, and yes, always still.more to do, but I contusion ue to grow because of my faith I. Him and similar to the love, I have to face the hard wind and get the life in me to make a complete and valuable lesson learned and be able to be more productive to my community, family and self!
“For the olive to be edible, it has to go through a lengthy process that includes:
washing,
breaking,
soaking,
sometimes salting,
and waiting some more.”
Life with Jesus is constantly about letting Him fix our messed up hearts. I love this quote!
Thank you for this Lysa. My family was sick the whole month of January and it has had me down. Reading this gives me a fresh perspective on remembering the steps needed when we go through hard times.
I am reminded that even though I need to think about the hard things- I need to be more compassionate- more willing to stand with the suffering and shoulder the burden with them.
Crushed or broken and preserved or repaired by God has shown me that I am stronger than before.
So beautifully spoken. I’ve recently been in a place of pressing, feeling like I’m failing in some areas of my life. How encouraging it is to be reminded that these are the times that God is preparing us to extract our greatness! I am learning to rely on him more and more
I feel the crush daily as I take care of my special needs child who is now a young adult.
I visited Israel last year and we were so blessed to have the gardener present when we were in the Garden of Gethsemane. He actually cut each of us a branch to take with us. I heard the story of the olive tree but your article has brought it to life for me and my family as we are experiencing the divorce of my daughter and her husbands 16 yr marriage. Thank you for this article and the reminder of Gods Word…..
“When the sorrowful winds of the east blow, I forget they are necessary.
When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.
And when I’m being crushed, I forget it’s for the sake of my preservation.”
How awesome to know that it is sometimes through those refining moments in life that we are given new perspective and even new life. Thank you for being so faithful in teaching and expounding the Word of God!
So fitting! You seem to always know what I’m needing to hear/read. I would love to win.
Today is definitely a crushing time. Found out yesterday that my dad is not able to have surgery on his tumor. He is battling Stage 3 Pancreatic Cancer. The prognosis is not good without surgery. My heart is broken for him and my mother. Holding fast to God’s Grace & Mercy.
Oh how I needed this today! Endured 6 deaths since Christmas, family & friends have been given devastating news regarding cancer, helping my parents with doctor appointments, dialysis and taking care of my 8 y/o grandson … feeling crushed and under pressure. What a refreshing take on this season of my life. Thank you for opening my eyes!
I am inspired that we are pressed but not crushed. He is our refuge! Thank you, Lysa, for this book in this season of my life. I am clinging to it. 🙂
I, too, am in the ‘crushing’ phase of life. Though it seems unbearable, I continue to cry out to and worship my Lord. He’s delivered me many times from this place and I know He is faithful. Thank you for speaking from your heart, Lysa. It is encouraging to me to know others have been where I am and have come through!
“Crushing is the way of preservation for the olive. It’s also the way to get what’s most valuable, the oil, out of the olive.”
I’ve never heard of this before, but what an eye opener for me! Trials, while not exhilarating in the least, are sure to help chisel us into God’s masterpiece.
Thank you for always keeping it real with us!
Thank you for sharing this timely encouragement this morning. I was feeling failure in my role as mother and pastor’s wife last night and this morning. I was feeling crushed by how my inadequacies seemed to be affecting my children and their responses to me. Thank you for the reminder that God can use these experiences to strengthen and better me for the long journey. Thank you for writing the truth God reveals to you.
This reminder- that the process is necessary and beautiful. It’s just what I need so often. I get so tired and lonely as a stay at home momma of 3. Seeking out genuine friendship and remembering Jesus is enough. Yes-we need relationships- but in the waiting-Jesus is there. And he’s turning me into something that will last!
Today’s lesson is a lesson in reality for me. I was “crushed” when I heard that I had been laid off from my job. Never a good time to get the news when you need to keep working and support your family. This lesson tells me that being crushed is to force me to move on and be better. God has a plan for me, and I am being prepared for the next step.
Thank you Lysa for your spiritual guidance.
Uninvited spoke to me during a significant time of struggle in my life. I didn’t realize just how much of my life was centered on approval from other people until the Holy Spirit used your book to show me. My validation came from compliments, attention, etc and when I didn’t receive them, or when the interaction was negative, so was my opinion of myself. I’m a work in progress and there are days I need more reminding than others, but there is unimaginable freedom in looking to God alone as our validation. Thank you for sharing your heart and your journey.
I have in a crushing before and watching someone close to me in one now. Love the visual of the olive tree and oil.
I love the olive tree. I love how The Lord shows us we will come out victorious by saying “pressed” but not “crushed”, it reminds me of when The Lord says trials produce preserverence. God bless you Lysa!
This is a beautiful analogy on how God refines us. It’s so easy ask why when times are bad or to soar through life when times are good. But it takes maturing as a Christian to see each time as part of the journey to get where God wants us. Not for our purpose but for His.
I am really excited to share this thought at church tonight. Our church has been in a “processed and crushing” period for the past few years. When we lost our pastor, when the finances became a constant concern, when several of the older “backbone” members passed away, when a trusted and adored member betrayed our trust, when fallout from that betrayal cased a major split. But it is part of the process and part of God’s plan for our growth and I am thankful!!
Wow-love this perspective! I try so hard to trust God’s plan for my life but there are some days, and even weeks, where I doubt my abilities and my self-worth because of something I wanted so badly but didn’t receive. It makes you want to crawl into a hole and never come out because you’re not worthy but, eventually, you start to see clearly and that it wasn’t your time or in your plan. It’s so hard but at the same time, freeing in a way because you know that it’s all in His hands, not yours.
I am in a season of the “unknown” right now. I feel like like the olive tree being blown in different directions. Reading this just gave me hope that God IS pruning me for something greater. Thank you for always sharing!!! I really feel it helps more people than you know!
What an awesome post, so incredibly timely for me. Crushed in spirit, crushed/broken heart, crushed life that I once knew as normal — this article resonated with me all around, and now I finally have an analogy to explain how I feel. Currently I’m the olive…hard and bitter. Now begins the process of washing, breaking, soaking, and waiting until being pressed to be preserved. Thank you for reminding me there is Hope.
Wow, Lysa! You have such a way with words and write about things that I so relate to! What a beautiful picture of something that feels like the opposite of beauty. I am going through crushing times right now (in fact, among other things, I got one of “those” emails from my daughter’s teacher last week!!!) and I have been SO resistant. Thank you for reminding me the pressing isn’t destroying me, it’s preserving the most valuable part of me. This was exactly what I needed, right now. Thank you for allowing God to speak through you!!
This is a great message for me, this past year has been the hardest year of my life. February 3, 2016 I gave birth to my 4th child, a wonderful surprise to us considering our other kids were 14, 17, and 18 at the time! Eleven weeks into the pregnancy we learned he had trisomy 18, a fatal chromosomal abnormality. His defects were severe and I’m a NICU nurse and knew all too well what I was about to face. The only prayer I was brave enough to pray for the 25 weeks we knew about his illness was that he would be born alive and that we could spend some time with him. And against extremely high odds he survived a vaginal delivery and lived for 2 beautiful hours. In 2 days we’ll celebrate his first birthday as well as the anniversary of his death. But I still know God is faithful and full of grace and love.
The past two years have seemed to be nothing but storms within storms. I lost my dad to cancer, and I became angry all the time. My marriage suffered greatly. Then my husband took a job I didn’t agree with. That job turned out to be a disaster, resulting in us losing our car and home this year. But about a year ago, our kids wanted to attend church. Reluctantly, I found one and took them. The day I stepped into that church I found God again. He touched me in a way I never knew possible. I watched my kids grow in Christ and it is the most amazing sight! Our marriage is stronger. Our 3 kids, my mom, my husband and myself have each accepted Christ as Lord and savior, and been baptized in that church.I know God has a plan for us, and He has blessed us abundantly. As we lost our home, we found nothing but peace in Him. We will praise Him in the good and the not so good. Thank you Jesus!
This book is an amazing tool that has started an eye opening and healing process that has been much needed in my life. I bet the video and study guide take it to a whole new level. This set could be used to cause a ripple affect in so many women’s lives. I would love to share this with others.
The key for me is remembering that God is with me during the crushing times, and that He maybe using this time to prepare me for something so much better than I could have dreamed of for myself. So often when I go through struggles, I forget to lean on God and try to fix the problem myself. God is using the crushing times to prepare us for the plans He has for us.
This is a beautiful devotion, beautiful AND hard. I went through an unusually tough season that lasted a few years and ended with my worst financial nightmare coming true. What I learned by having to go through that season completely changed my heart and my head (most of the time). I see Jesus in a way I hadn’t known him. I want to be willing to be crushed, processed, but my tendency seems to dread and resist. This devotion is a refreshing reminder and new way of understanding the necessity of “Crushing times”.
Thank you!
cathi
Great reminder! I try to keep in mind that He is in control when I feel “pressed.” The olive tree is such an excellent metaphor. Like a diamond, we can’t become what He wants us to be without the testing and refining.
I’ve been feeling this crush for months…in my own anxiety, my husband’s health and job issues, my son as he begins to navigate the tween world, my daughter as she adjusts to kindergarten, and being a bigger girl…thank you for this reminder that we are being molded and shaped, pressed to be made more like Jesus.
“It’s a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness & prepared for usefulness” Oh what a wonderful statement! I may never look at an olive in my salad the same again!
The hardest times in life involve my adult children. One of them has been going through a really difficult time and it breaks my heart. But God in His awesomeness is using this time to bring my son back to Him. The changes are amazing. I intend to share this article with him. Thank You!
This is so meaningful in this season of my life. Last spring, my husband was somewhat rejected in his coaching profession after servicing so many young men and women in the athletic arena with a huge amount of success. We were devastated along with the community around us. We took a leap of faith, and he decided to resign from his leadership position and take a year off from coaching and spend more time with my daughters and me. So many unexpected things happened during his time off, and we both spent so much time reflecting and mediatating on his word. He had been more resistant than me, and I had been praying for many years about it. We both became more connected and grew deeper in our faith than we ever imagined and each other just by completely trusting in him. A position that he always had dreamed of opened up and we truly know that God used the time off to prepare him and us for this new season. We will serve even better than before. I also plan to create a bible study for other coaches’ wives to handle the highs and lows of our daily walk which can be so lonely at times while our husbands are away. The olive is a perfect symbol of God’s impeccable timing and that his is good always. Thank you.
Thanking God today for using this message to give me hope and remind me that I am not forgotten. I was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years ago and 10 months later my husband was diagnosed with Stage 4 Rare colon cancer. During this time we have lost our home and support of some close family members. I feel crushed and need to release and heal. Also, when we are Uninvited or left out it seems to affect our daughters too. I try and teach them that rejection from man is inevitable but God always welcomes us with open arms amd love. This study would be a tremendous Blessing to me!!!
What a wonderful reminder of His wonderful plan for us and our need to wait for the finished product in our circumstances. I was in very deep need of this today.
I have a prodigal son and as a mother I have gone through so many winds of strums watching my son destroy his life. It’s the most unbearable crushing feeling a mother can go through. But with God’s help, He is helping me to grow, stand and live again.I don’t have to go through this defeated, I can allow God to wash me, break me and wait in victory!
Thank you for this post about Gethsemane and the analogy of the olive and the olive tree.
I love reading your posts and your perspective which speak to my heart although I am Jewish and we usually do not read and study the New Testament.
I am going through a time where I am feeling buffeted by the East Winds. and pressed to the point of being crushed and being afraid that there may be no life after this, that I have no idea how to go on.
Reading this has reminded me that I am His vessel and I am not broken,that I am like the olive, pressed only to know and trust, again, that G-d is working through me and that I may be peaceful and not afraid.
Thank you.
WOW this spoke volumes to me! I have been struggling with my “crushed” heart for over a year due to a situation with my daughter. Thank you for sharing this message!
This really spoke to me as I’m still delinf with the physical pain of a miscarriage…a very long process-3 months to be exact. God has taugh me so much through this Trial that I’m so thankful for. He has definitely “crushed” me and I can honestly say I’m thankful for it because I’ve grown. He’s taught me to fully trust Him, how to endure emotional and physical pain and given me a whole new perspective on life and motherhood. God is good all the time!
Hi Lysa.
Thanks for the encouragement in a difficult season of my life. I’ve been following you for a few months and I’m amazed at how many time God uses you to speak the truth I need to hear at that moment. I’m learning to seek him in the crushing moments and fill my mind with his word instead of the present circumstances. Thank you for being vulnerable and speaking truth!
This message is exactly what I needed to hear. I have been going through many trials and wondering why? I am definitely being pressed and hopefully I will be able to become a better person through this time. I have been praying for me to be able to see what God is showing me. This message hits me right where I need it. Thank you.
Thank you. It was a good word that I needed to hear today. ❤️
This is exactly what I needed today. Thank you. God is using you to speak life to so many may he continue to use you.
Thank you so much for this message…
My dear friend of 30+ years has had two surgeries and is now going thru chemo for breast cancer. My goal is to help keep her positive and knowing that God is not absent from her life right now. She is 2.5 hours away and it seems like an eternity between our visits. I shared your message with her this morning as soon as I finished reading it.
My husband was recently ordained as a pastor. Eight months ago, he was laid off from his job in the oil and gas industry. God has been faithful to provide for us but the fear of ‘what’s next’ and how long can we stay safe, keeps creeping in.
I know God promises… I know how powerful God is… I know God loves us. I find myself singing this line from ‘Jesus is Better’: … make my heart believe!
Thank you again and God’s continued blessings…
Like you said, “We need both winds of hardship and relief to sweep across our lives if we are to be truly fruitful.”. I believe that we all go through times of struggle and times of joy. It also struck me in a way that reminds me that I could be a impact in a person’s “wind”; whether it be negative or positive. I just want to be a haven for someone in their struggle or an encouragement in their joy! Giving a fellow believer or non-believer encouragement through Jesus is a goal i strive towards!
Thank you.
Yes! Learning the rhythms and processes to healing from the crushing times, and being expectant of the lessons that can be learned instead of being paralyzed by them! Embrace the process of being crushed! All for our good and his glory!!
In the last year I have felt that crushing to the point of thinking I would never survive. It is a feeling of despair I can’t put into words. This scripture I had never read! I am seeking God’s strength and guidance in my time… but it honestly has taken me a long time to get to this point! Thank you for the encouragement!
Lysa, this resonates so much within me today. Going through so much crushing and breaking and pain right now with family circumstances, church issues and work situations and sometimes it feels like there is no way out. This really spoke to me, to the point I am going to print this out and keep it with me. Would so so love to receive the uninvited product, especially the book.
I just went through the biggest heartbreak of my life. I have spent the past two days weeping over the loss of a very special relationship. To be honest, the only thing getting me through is my faith. And although I don’t even know what to pray or think right now, I know (deep down) that I have a God who loves me and doesn’t want me to hurt. In fact, I know that He’s using this to mould me and grow me (even though I feel stuck in the deepest, darkest hole). This post reminded me that Jesus (the ultimate sacrifice) felt exactly what I’m feeling today. That I’m not alone (even though I feel very alone), and that He is faithful in the midst of our unfaithfulness and hurt.
Lisa, I was honored to hear you speak in Houston last Saturday. You are deep! You explain things that I honestly could never even imagine understanding until I hear you say it. Thanks for being a blessing.
I have a prodigal son and as his mother watching him destroy his life has been the most crushing pain I’ve ever experienced. But I know that with God I don’t have to wait in defeat. I can allow God to wash me, break me and wait in victory! Thank you Lord for the olive trees.
Thank you for this.
This olive tree teaching helped me today as my husband and I begin the trial for the man who murdered our son. The forces of fear and anxiety are raging in us, pressing us. Our faith in our just God to do the perfect thing for justice is carrying us, though we are fully aware that justice may not look like what we expect or want. All for His Glory and the bigger picture…..
Thank you for sharing your amazing gifts, many of the things you teach are confirmations to the word God gives me as I journey thru with Him, but learning it and being able to teach it is not the same. I love the way you are able to keep it simple, you explain in just a few words what my heart understands but struggles to express. I’m glad for what He teaches me but I don’t want to keep it for myself, I want to be able to express the timely word to others and bring hope and healing to their hearts as God has to mine.
I am being crushed right now. Finances, family issues, marriage issues…it never ends. But Jesus is in the process of bringing out the most valuable traits inside of me. I needed this reminder. Thank you!
This spoke to me today, not just as a reminder for me, but for my daughter. She leads a bible study for her teammates in college and has a few that are currently going through some “crushing” moments. She came to me yesterday, unsure of how to respond, and I can’t wait to share this with her today.
Thank you for this great reminder. I often find myself trying to avoid the “crushing” times because they are often uncomfortable and messy. However, I am learning that is where the growth comes from.
Lysa thank you, this teaching has helped me to put what the evil one wants to use against me to loose hope and to create doubt into perspective. It has help me to look at what I am going through as a challenge instead of feeling as if God has forgotten me. It has helped me to look pass the now and to keep pressing through.
It seems I have faced rejection all my life, being a child from divorce parents,where I didn’t feel loved in our own home. Sometimes I forget that Jesus went thru the same thing , and I can go to his word and find the truth. Thank u.
Lysa, please add me to the comments. Without going into detail, I feel God is calling me to do another study in my home…is this one it? Thank you and God bless
I am being crushed right now and this makes me look at it in a different light .
Thank you.
I did this study when my heart was crushed and I had friends turned there back on me. This study was such a good part of my healing.. I would love to have a group of women do this study with me.
I sit here with tears streaming down my face. Walking thru this now. Sometimes there are no words to describe the pain, but god is faithful to send just what we need, just when we need it.
You have shared this before but oh how I needed it today. I needed the reminder but I also needed it to share with some sweet sisters who are going through some crushing times. Both lost children last year. One mother is a seasoned Christian, a woman of deep faith. The other mother is a new Christian and struggling for hope.
I think this lesson of the olive tree can be a blessing and a reminder to both.
Wow this spoke volumes to me today. I took a class last night about excess baggage. What’s weighing you down in life.
I’m reflecting this morning about my life and I feel my life is running me instead of me running my life. This article gave me a visual of the necessity of what we’re going through. Kind of gave it meaning and purpose. Thanks Lysa keep doing what your doing it’s touching lives in ways you will never know.
Thank you Lysa. Your message was so timely and encouraged me today as I am going through what seems like a very long “east wind” season. I needed the reminder of the God’s goodness in everything.
Thank you for this incredible reminder that the Lord is using these times when harsh winds blow to grow me up, to strengthen me in Him! I needed this today! Love the “crushed but not destroyed” reminder, too, and how the best part of life will come from those times of being crushed!
This spoke to my soul today as my husband lost his job last week, he also told me he wanted a divorce. I am just slowly recovering from a job loss myself and am working for half the income I was. My 13 year old son tried to commit suicide last September due to bullying. It’s been a very rough couple months. The more I pray the more piece God gives me. I needed this strength this morning to understand. Thank you!!
I’m being crushed by my current situation and really needed to read this! Thank you and God bless.
K
devastated but not destroyed, oh how that is true. I have been separated for 4 years and divorced for 7 months now. How long does the bitterness and devastation last. The olive tree is our restoration, I know but how long do I go through the process. I think at times I will never reach the other side. But I know with Gods help I will. Thank you for your encouragement.
Exactly where I am. Thank you for the lesson from the olive tree.
So needed to hear this message today! As a new mother in a new town I have had difficulty finding peace during such a huge transitional period. This has affected my relationship with my husband. The analogy of the olive tree reminds me that God uses everything for His good. Thank you for the reminder that these trying times will produce the best version of me! The best wife, mother, friend, and Christ follower because my hope lies in God’s promises.
After raising our nieces for 8 years and then circumstances leading to to them returning to their mother, I was left feeling depressed, rejected, and, to use your word, crushed. There was no peace anyone could speak to me to make it better. I had no desire to seek God in anyway. But, by His grace, I did (am doing) it anyways… little by little, day my day it is getting easier to view the situation and see that God is good.
Lysa,
Thank you so much for this fantastic word! I can’t express, how much I needed this.
I am currently going through a couple of crushing moments. My finances, trying to TRUST GOD to provide and Not lean unto my own understanding. Second, God, recently convicted me, in the area of not trusting men; therefore, not trusting God to send me a Godly husband because of my previous failed marriage. I have been divorced six years this July. Your message, was confirmation, from God, that I have been and am going through a Lengthy crushing time to be cured and prepared for usefulness, which I know is for God’s Kingdom and His Glory.
Great article. I’ts really tough during those times.
Today as I was going thru my newsfeed on Facebook, something made me stop and read the entire ah moment about us being like an olive tree. Never thought of myself being able to connect to the unforgettable definition of how we are goingthru life like an olive, I feel so down most of the time alwasy wondering if Im doing the right thing for ny children in raising my boys as a single parent. We have been going to church for over an year and we became members just last month. I can say with going to church and reading your blog and doing a study group to your book “Made to Crave” as truly enriched our life. I say the Jesus girl prayer I even have a copy of it taped to my car sunshade so I can recite anytime. My boys also have one but we changed it to Jesus boy. Your inspiring blogs have kept me keeping the faith and has inspired me to be a better mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and most of all a Jesus Girl.
Now I can say im like an olive tree too. Thank you so much.
(I seen you in a video televised speech last year in Lubbock, TX at Hillside Christian Chirch–
At 45, I recently participated in my first women’s Bible study group, with Uninvited being our study material. It literally changed my life. Lysa’s words reach right into all the cracks that life makes in a woman’s heart, and soothes the hurts, showing us there is a Great Healer that can take all this pain away. I will treasure this book all of my life. THANK YOU. <3
Thank you for sharing this teaching. It helps me to have a “visual” to “get it”! I appreciate you and P31 Ministries more than you can know.
This is me right now. At this stage of life, having been stripped of everything to the point of returning to my childhood home. But, as the days and weeks pass, I am seeing the hand of God move in such a profound way. I am learning that God has to bring us back in order for us to move forward. I was reading about the olive tree a few days ago and your post confirmed what the spirit has been placing my heart.
Thank you so much!
Its easy to forget or retreat and stay in the “crying” moments to the point of being paralyzed. I am going through a crushing period and so thank you for reminding me that it is for my own good and that when I come out of it I will be better and stronger. I always look forward to your posts on social media they have really been helpful in this season of waiting and sometimes wondering why. Everyday I find something that speaks directly to my heart and helps me renew my hope and shift my perspective. Thank you Lysa.
We want life to be easy and stress-free. We think living “right” will gain us favor to have that easy life but it is not God’s way. In fact, thinking we deserve an easy life is prideful and something that needs to be crushed out of us. I am walking through a difficult season. I have realized that I have spent a lot of my Christian walk having my relationship with Jesus kind of sitting on my head. It was the standard I strived for but in my own strength fell short often. Then I used Jesus to cover my failure because, of course, that is what He died for. Now, my walk with Jesus is about letting Him seep into the core of who I am. I no longer have Him just sitting on top as a standard or just as my sin covering. I still fail Him but the relationship/fellowship with Him is more important what I can get out of Him as my sin covering. I could only have learned that through the crushing times, the times that I needed Him to make it through the dark dark nights. Now when the winds blow, the sinking feeling of failure, the heartache of loss comes I reach not for a standard but for a Heavenly Father who loves me to my core. Your article so beautifully portrayed the process of crushing to get us where need to be to fully understand what God is doing in and through us. You used a wonderful illustration with the olive tree. I would love taking a group through your new study. As women I think most of our crushing comes from a fear of rejection and abandonment. Thank you for your ministry, Lysa!
I need to go through the necessary to become what God longs for me to be and no matter what we may go through his outcome will be far better
My niece is just beginning a long recovery after a tragic car accident. Her journey will be long and her spirits are down. Her faith is being tested and Satan’s lies are seeping in. I would love to give her resources to help her dig in deep and hold on tight to Jesus as she journeys.
What a beautiful way to look at the difficult times life has to offer. I am experiencing one of those times, and I am so thankful for the perspective you presented. These times are necessary. I can feel God at work and although painful, it is a beautiful experience.
I’ve seen this space called Unemployment before. Only this time, it was after my dad’s death. I was his primary caregiver. Laid off, I found myself having time. Real time, alone with God, to read His word; to meditate; to contemplate my life now & moving forward; and to grieve, not just the loss of dad, but loss of my job, my dreams, my opportunities & accomplishments. God definitely has me right where He wants me – bent but not broken. I know He’s working behind the scenes for my good. He’s building my character. He’s prepaing me for my next assignment. Each day the bitterness improves & the preservation abounds. I’m grateful. This teaching absolutely spoke to me. Thank you. Your Tweets have kept me going for a long time. You and P31 have been a major blessing in my life & I tell everyone I can about you. I bought your book, Unglued. But that’s a whole separate posts! Thanks & God bless.
I can say Yes and Amen to this! It has been both through the hard, crushing/pressing times and the times of refreshing that I have learned Who my God is, and my roots have grown ever deeper in Him through them!! HIS Faithfulness Overwhelms me!!!
I too am going through very crushing times right now with my marriage, my family (grown children), finances and I thank you Lysa for reminding me that this is a time for processing, to step outside my comfort zone, to grow and bring me closer to God and my true destiny. I thank God everyday for this lesson even though I still feel like I am in the ashes and have faith everything is for my highest good.
Trying to understand relationship stuff and Gods will, knowing when to hold on and when to walk away (it’s not a marriage thing). Wondering why this guy never wanted me to leave but didn’t want me as a girlfriend and all I can come up with is I’m ugly. I just lost 130 pounds this last year and a half no surgery i did it on my own and i want to feel pretty but i just can’t stop the voice in my head that says what’s wrong with me. So yeah I’ve been a little crushed lately. Thanks for a great read. I always love your posts. ❤️
Oh, how the hardships make me weary and bitter. Not the godly response I know. Could use some insight on the this…
This is exactly where we am at in in your book “Uninvited
I have been reading this chapter for a couple of weeks now because I feel there is so much God is trying to say to me!
Trying not to he bitter after my second divorce… how did I get this way? Why must i go thru such trials? What is God preparing for? I seek God’s path for me, however I feel so alone and crushed. Praying for guidance and wisdom. Thank you for your words, its like you are speaking into my life.
Your teaching always finds a place in my heart. Thank you for letting God use you, to speak through you. I had the opportunity to hear you speak a few years ago and was so blessed! I’ve been following your First 5 since it was implemented except for a period of time last year when I was going through treatment and I got a little behind. Thank you for that wonderful app! May God bless your every endeavor! I would love to have this bible study to share with others.
This helped me so much today. Between my Systemic Lupus, my husbands heart issues and stage 3 COPD, medical bills we are drowning in and more bills to come with specialist we have to see 3 and 4 times a month. Each visit with medication to be filled and high heating bills right now, I cant stretch our disability checks any further. I sit up and think how…how will we make it? How can we possible get through another month, week or even day? The physical pain of my illness is often times debilitating and the depression my husband suffers with all his maladies sometimes is just almost too much.
My only child battles alcohol and cocaine addictions and my mom is in a nursing home with dementia. We lost my dad suddenly to cancer in 2015 a man who had never been sick a day in his life.
Words today help me to see that in the middle of all this, on the worst of days…God is still with me. those winds are blowing from each side, I can feel the presses Lysa…physically feel them and tears stain my I AM book right now.
I wont give up, I will hold on to God’s promises, I will remember your words today and I will re read this often.
thank you
This study wowed me today. It brought to life an explanation of what is happening withinr church. We are experiencing some challenging times in our church. Some of our members are not able to see the opportunities that are being presented during this trial. It is heart breaking to see our family members get puffed up about not getting their way or their flawed thinking that their way is the only way. Satan comes to kill steal and destroy. Through all of this many hearts have been broken. At the same times hidden things are being revealed. I personally believe that myself and my church family is being in the restored and refined. God is doing some extensive painful heart surgery on us. I know because of His love we are in the process of “becoming”!. As painful as it is, I rejoice and give thanks knowing that there will be a mountain top experience once our heart surgery is complete and as a church we will be able to serve and minister in a mighty way.
Our ladies bibles study that I facilitate in my home is planning on doing “Uninvited”
with an expected start date of March 6. I would be honored to receive the “Univited Package”. Your devotion has really ministered to me this day. The scripture shared is going to be displayed on my computer at work so I can remember to stay focused and keeping our eyes on Jesus. He is our very help in times of distress.
I love this so much. It’s packed with so much truth that I’ve never thought about! It makes so much sense. It speaks to me because I have a friend going through a really hard time. I don’t have the words to say but I feel like the lord has spoken to me through Lysa and I know how I can encourage her. Mu husband is a youth pastor. I would LOVE this series to lead our youth through. Many are graduating and about to enter into a fun but challenging and often life changing season. Thank you for the beautiful reminder of how the father using the crushing times for our good. He is always good and always faithful.
Lysa, this spoke to me and comforted me to know that all of the crushing times and situations are what have made the “better” me that I am today (and still growing and changing daily), and that I am so much better off than the “bitter” “old” me that I once was…God works mighty miracles with every blink of the eye…and I am one of those. Thank you for being a constant sunshine in my life daily…you inspire me to live for and love God more!!! God bless you beautiful lady!!!
Oh yes, this is very, very timely indeed. I am also sending it on to my son, a pastor, who often said he felt like olives being crushed. He’ll appreciate this post. He has very severe health concerns right now and it is affecting me greatly. I’ve gone through some very rough days because of this.
This is such an encouragement to me today. In sharing love with people, Jesus and the gospel I am in a season of being continually rejected, pressed down and crushed. I am increasingly aware of the hatred of the enemy and when God is at work, Satan is working too. God is bigger. Jesus experienced the pain of rejection and betrayal. He was falsely accused and condemned. Thank you for this post.
I am holding on to and thirsty for every bit of scripture about these hard times.
I have been broken in spirit for some time. My mother passed on Mothers day last year and so many of my other dreams and expectations and prayers seem to fall on deaf ears as well. Hearing the scripture so helps to remember who Jesus is. I need it constantly.
So many other things going on and the fears that I am trying to shake. I am currently doing the I AM study and I cannot get enough of it. Thank you Lysa for the books and studies to show that we are not alone and that God has sent someone who understands and tries to help others with your bible studies.
Oh, how useful we can become if we’re willing to go thru His process! Thank you for this reminder!
Hello Lysa. This has truly given me hope & lifted my spirit today. I was just talking with the Lord in the wee hours this morning that I don’t understand but I know he does. He has allowed it because he has greater for me. I’m going thru divorce. I told the Lord that I know I have to go thru the grieving phase and I’m giving it all – including myself – to him to see me thru this. I’m going to fight everyday to get/stay in his peace and trust him to take care of everything else. God bless your ministry and thank you for what you do.
Thank you for the vivid analogy of my current crushing time to the Olive tree. It is nice to at least have the hope that something good can possibly come from this terrible experience.
what an inspiring post! Crushing is definitely the right word for me right now… betrayal in my marriage and man is it painful. this has been the hardest journey I have ever gone on, but I am trying to trust God through this process and through the pain. sometimes it is just so overwhelming. I would love to do this study and would be grateful for the opportunity.
This went with my devotional so well today. I think He’s trying to tell me something. Thank you for being a voice for His message today.
Lysa,
Thank you for this truth. It was a salve on my soul this morning. I’ve received unexpected news this week that I felt, had absolutely crushed me. But now I realize I’m just being pressed. Thank you for giving us all Godly perspective. I’ve already sent this to two friends who I know are feeling crushed this week…
I am going through hard times (family/marriage issues) right now. I want to thank you for reminding me that the good comes with the bad and we must weather the storm and stay strong in our faith. In bad times I seem to get moody and give up all together. When that happens I lose sight of what really matters, so thank you for this email today and gentle reminder to never give up.
I live in an area where many people grow olive trees. I see them as I drive to work. I guess I can relate as I have this mental picture of the olive trees that line the roads and I think of experiences in my life that are like that of being pressed.
This was good for my heart today. We recently lost a child at over 15 weeks gestation and just had to go through the procedure to help that baby pass yesterday as my body was not moving it along naturally. It had been heartbreaking and crushing but this and other truths from the Word have helped to keep our family’s eyes on the Lord and His provision and love.
Thank you for your insight and wisdom from the Lord.
I am so blessed by this message today! I see with my heart eyes how crushing and yet beneficial trials are in my own life when I look at what God’s purposes are for me. Thank you for drawing me in to remember the beautiful analogy of the olive tree. I am glad to be able to see, when the winds of life blow, how God is still at work in me. Thank you for your message to us today! God Bless!!
Crushing times are inevitable for everyone! Thank you for the wonderful analogy using the olive tree. I hope I remember this the next time hard times come my way !
I wrestled with whether to do the I Am study (through the online Bible studies) at this point in my life because I was just starting another study on trust–my word for the year. I felt God leading me to focus on that area for now. After reading today’s post, I realize I would still love to eventually do the I Am study. Lysa’s Biblical truths are an encouragement to me. Thank you.
I really learned a lot about the olive, I don’t like them because of their bitter, salty taste but after reading this lesson I have more appreciation for them. I may not like them but God uses them in his way to teach us how to weather storms of this life and not be crushed. I would love the opportunity to enjoy the teaching you have filmed. Thanks for this special message and God Bless you in making more lessons that enlighten us.
Truly helpful today. I was praying this morning for our Lord to help me with some discouragement, knowing full well that difficult things make us stronger if we yield to
Him. Thinking also of several friends experiencing very hard life events, one in particular who are expecting a child, who is not expected to survive. Thank you Lisa for kneeling to God in what He puts on your heart. I know a lot of women who’s lives have been changed by your wisdom. Today is a reminder and now an expectation of what the Lord is pressing our of me, so I can glorify Him more.
I am healing from a very unexpected and heartbreaking rejection from a friend that I still don’t understand. The timing of this book is so perfect. Thank you for your honesty and your heart for us.
I would love the chance to read your book! This message today I felt as though it was meant just for me… This past year has been so trying for me ?. My only daughter was rebellious, got engaged, turned 18, moved out, got married, and got pregnant all in a matter of a few months time. This times were difficult as parents we had to make hard decisions for our daughter. Now our daughter is clinging to her mother in law more than ever, and the mother in law is very accepting of this calling our daughter, her daughter now. My daughter has been pulling further and further away from us to the point where we aren’t even speaking anymore?. Thank you for this message to help remind my heart!!
Thanks for this word. I have certainly been in the crushing time lately. God is working it all out for good.
Oh thank you. This is so helpful to me!
I’m being crushed, again, after having suffered numerous crushings. And yes I am bitter. My name is Dorothea but call me Mara for I am bitter. Ruth 1:20
I will keep your message in the back of my head. But right now I am VERY angry and hurt at God for allowing yet more pain into my life of loss, grief and heartbreak.
It is endless. There is no light at the end of the tunnel.
Thank you for listening.
I’ve done the Uninvited study through Proverbs 31 Ministries on line this fall! It was fantastic! Need to do that study again & again through out my life! I’d love to win this giveaway today!! I could give it out to other people! It would be such a wonderful blessing!
What an excellent analogy of our hard times. So needed this reminder. Thank you for using your hardships to encourage and help others–I hope to do the same some day.
I don’t know how you do it but you always seem to speak to me right where I am. It is truly a gift!
I’ve been feeling crushed for a while now. Struggling with my marriage and wondering wether God wants my marriage to survive or if God just never meant for us to be together and is now punishing me for going against His will for me. I try to listen and follow God’s will for me but some days I just feel completely lost. Thank you Lysa for today’s post,
Appreciate your words and thoughts in this area. As most of us can attest to in life, I, also, have had those areas in life where I indeed thought I would cease to breath. Thru those times, God was there, waiting, for me to really look at life and actions. I have learned much and gained wisdom and understanding from those times. When those painful times comes again, as we know they will in life, I pray my thoughts first turn to God’s word, not last, as in them he will guide and strengthen me in handling whatever may be set before me.
What a great lesson of the olive tree today … great imagery. Thank you for sharing! I would love to do the Uninvited bible study. I’m in need of a bible study so I’m reading the bible & studying daily. Use to be in Precepts bible study where we met weekly & those were some of the best times for me.
Your lessons always speak to me on a deep and meaningful way. Just saw you in Houston. Wonderful night!
Wow, Wow, Wow! This is exactly what I needed today. The last two months have been the toughest trials I have been through. My heart has been crushed by a loved one and he turned his back on me and my kids. I literally wanted to die BUT I have rested in God the last month and let Him show me His love. He has been! Lisa, you have been an answer to prayer! I feel like your messages speak directly to me. The story of the olive tree is an Aha moment for me! We do have to go through the hard times to be all God wants us to be. Thank you!
I am in a trial that has lasted for over 18 years and lately have been feeling weary and I have allowed hope to dry up. But I such a beautiful picture of the olive tree now. I surely can do all things through Christ who strengths me! I can keep on keeping on!
This spoke volumes to me. My heart has been crushed and I’m currently waiting on God to move in a situation. I never even thought about the importance of the olive tree and how it relates to us. Thank you for allowing the Lord to use you.
I am being crushed by family matters
Definitely have felt crushing times but I know what it’s producing! This is right in line with what I’m currently going through. I’m excited for who God is making me to be 🙂 I’m also leading a group through Uninvited starting on the 21st. !! I would love to win the study resources for it!
Sometimes I forget too. However, I am trusting my LORD to bring good and growth from all of this pain. Please pray for my daughter’s heart to be softened to the only Savior and One who truly satisfies. This momma’s heart is begging.
Your teaching, Lisa, showed me there is a divine purpose for my crushing heartache. Thank you for sharing this wisdom from God! Blessing to you, sweet sister!
Wow! I really needed to be reminded of this today. I am a homeschooling mother of 3. There are so many moments that I feel “crushed” and despair while going through this “process”. These words have spoken to my heart! Praise be to God is everything!
Thank you for sharing! I’ll never look at olives the same! 🙂 This helped me put some tough things I’m going through into perspective. I should be grateful for being crushed and perplexed because things will truly be better because of the struggles. Thank you, Jesus, for this truth!
Lysa
thank you for your words of comfort, they always seem to meet me right where I am with God’s promises that I need to hear.
once again, you’ve explained something in a way I will remember and made sense out of something I often wonder why it has to happen. Thank you, Lysa!
This was such a fitting topic today!, my husband lost a baby at full term, his wife at the time forbid him to talk about it. He has carried this burden for 29 years! Since he finally confided in me this deep soul wound, I have encouraged him to share with me and with others so he can begin the healing process. The last two days have been extremely tough for him as he has reflected back and wondered what his Baby Rose would be doing now and what she would be like. This is a great reminder that God is in control and know and understands our extremely difficult times. We can go on knowing we are not crushed but still held gently in the palm of his hand. Please keep him in your prayers as he walks this road of restoration and me to be able to encourage him through this.
I really needed this today and at this very moment. Crushed almost feels like an understatement.
I definitely am going through a time of processing. A lot of changes in my family. It had helped to remind me that God has a purpose for everything.
Lysa,
Your devotions always seem to speak right to me.
I’ve been feeling crushed for months now following the death of my mom who I was very close to. Our family has been through a lot this year and I am feeling very alone in it. I am standing on Gods word to get me through this difficult season. Thank you for being obedient to God and always sharing what He speaks to you as it has blessed me many times.
Oh, this is just what I needed to hear! After a very hard year with lots of life changes I needed to know that it’s all necessary. A person who has always had a loving heart for others, I have a lot of bitterness right now. I don’t like the person I am right now, but I understand God is still working on/with me!!
If I didn’t experience the crushing I could not understand 2 corinthians 12:9. Only God could make you (eventually) praise him for the crushing hearbreaks.
Going through cancer treatment for the second time, relational difficulties with my husband, and major uncertainty about our future have left me feeling pretty crushed. Thank you for the reminding that He brings good out of these times.
The crushing times, oh I’ve had them and as I sit here with my sister trying to plan and arrange our father’s funeral I read your devotion. Thank you. The reminder were needed and the verses were very needed. Thank you.
I love 2 Corinthians 4:8,. Its the truth of where god leads us and shows us how he protects us and helps us grow!
I feel like I am being crushed financially and health wise. I need to do this study. Thank you for it!
I was diagnosed 18 months ago with Stage 4 Colorectal cancer. God told me that he brought me to this for a reason and I believe in my healing. This is going to be used for a great and amazing testimony!! Satan has tried to take my marriage in the past, he’s attacking our business and he’s come after me… I waiting, not so patiently, for the day the Lord shoes his mighty power in this situation!
Erin
Thank you so much for this reminded. It the midst of marriage problems, it’s so easy to get discouraged and forget that God uses everything for good!
Mrs.Lysa,
You always have inspired me with every single blog of yours.
And it’s the same now. I’m being thru a tough battle.
The words “Cast down, but not destroyed”,
Says me that, “These are all just doubts, I’m not dead yet”
This is what came in my mind.
And by the way, they are soo many secrets in Bible.
This story about “Olive Tree”, is another secret which no one have even thought about.
Because of u mam, we have known another secret.
I’m soo thankful to GOD that he have given u for us.
May GOD bless you and your family.
Definitely needed this today. It’s so easy to sink in despair and hopelessness, but I have to remember God is working through the pain to produce something beautiful that will bring glory to Him.
I am so thankful that you have chosen Jesus and trust him. He has given you an incredible gift that we all get to share in. Thank you for all you do. Proverbs 31 has been so helpful with all the things you share on Facebook and your bible studies. I’m currently doing finding I am and the east snd west winds are blowing hard. It feels impossible. My heart is so heavy right now in this s season of life and I do want to let Jesus become my I AM. ZOA!! The olive tree! What a great word picture! I desperately need pray for a couple of my kids. Thank you!!
I recently found your blog and posts, and I have connected to your heart in a way that is unreal! I would love to share this book and study with my closest friends who are presently walking through heartbreak.
2016 was a difficult year for me, 3 surgeries and then ended by me losing my brother in a house fire. Some days are just hard, but I do realize I need to rely on God and his grace to get me though. But how to lift the dark on my life so it doesn’t consume or stay to long is what I am finding hard to do. Thank you for your “real” devotions. They really talk to me and help me. Hoping 2017 will be a great year.
I’m being crushed and prepared for further work for God. Your message helps me to see that better. Remove my bitterness Lord!
I am feeling crushed right now! It feels like i am broken inside and sometimes feel as though i will never be whole again. I know i have so much on my life to be thankful for but this gapping wound is suffrocating my existence. I really needed to hear the words of God today because in my heart i know he will help through this darkness i feel.
Beautiful and exactly what I needed to hear during my times of feeling crushed.
Thank you Lysa!
This was a beautiful reminder of God’s grace given freely to me. I have never once thought about the process of an olive!! It makes perfect sense that it is similar to our walk with the Lord..I just love your devotionals and thank you for loving Jesus!!
Loved this blog post today and it really spoke to me. When going through trying timesit is easy to become bitter but we need to remember that God is in control and has a plan for us and means us well.
I have been fighting some battles recently. Problems in my marriage that God knows about and others. I just started your online Bible study “Finding I Am” and it seems as if the devil is trying to discourage me. I have never been so determined to find your book and do the study so I know it must be from God. This week my dad was diagnosed with bladder cancer and will have to start chemo treatments. My mom passed a little over two years ago and I am not ready to loose anyone else. I am feeling so overwhelmed and I know that I have to give this to Him because I am not strong enough. My mornings doing “Finding I Am” have been so uplifting!
Thank you for that “Uninvited ” reminder Lysa.
Wow..that was really thought provoking. It’s amazing how often we forget when we go through many trials. But through it, Jesus leads the way and is constantly with us. So very encouraging.
This lesson is so, so timely for me today. I’ve just found out about some things that have hurt me very badly. Every moment is different-anger, sadness, regret,- but, I know God has a plan. He will carry me through. Thank you for this beautiful reminder that the crushing is not the end.
“It is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness.” This line caught my soul this afternoon. After years of walking through some very difficult and almost debilitating life issues, I hadn’t realized the bitterness that crept inside. Very thankful for timely words to sink into my soul and realize my need to repent and praise God for the process.
This is a great picture of what is happening during these pressing times. Thank you for these words. This is a book a few friends of mine have been talking about reading together. It would be nice to use the study materials.
Hi Lysa,
I am currently going through a time that feels like I am in limbo… up against the wall, and anxiety is taking over. I am waiting to hear if 18mos of hard work, pouring myself into school, will result in being accepted into nursing school. Every little trip makes me think of the possibility that it won’t happen, and what do I do. Trying to lean on my faith.
Leeza
I appreciate your continued hard work to write such encouraging words?…..I was challenged to not resent my trials!
Lysa thank you ! I love how beautiful and bold for the kingdom of heaven God has created you to be! Thank you for reminding each person of who they are in Christ! I saw you on TBN and went out right away and purchased copies of “uninvited” to read, share and give away- its so good! I am praying that my 30 year old daughter would read it and be healed of the rejection she has suffered through awful events that have taken place in her life. That she would walk into her life assignment equipped with the reminders from God’s word that you have shared through your story. Praying for you and your ministry! I would love to be gifted the package you mentioned above – as I would love to continue to equipt others with tools to help them be who God created them to be and not listen to the lies of the enemy!
My husband and I have been going through hard times the past couple years. So many negative things have been happening. I keep reminding him that God has a plan for us and this is the journey he is taking us on. I know he feels crushed and disappointed most days. I’m hoping this message will help him as he goes about his days. I’m new to Bible studies and am currently doing the Finding I AM OBS. I’m loving it! I feel God has brought me to you to teach me more about him. Thanks!
This subject of how we respond to the hard times has come up quite of Lottie me lately. Studying Ruth and talking about Naomi’s bitterness but yet she continued to have hope has brought up a lot of wonder in my head as to what will happen next in my life that I will need to be prepared for in this way. Your comments here really help and I very much appreciate the symbolism of the tree as something to look to and learn from and remind us how God redeems so many things that seem irrevocably broken to us
Awesome sharing. Feel lifted up by it. I felt peace in my problem now. I know it happen for a reason. My good days will be coming soon.
Times are tough! True friends are few. And most of the time we forget why we ‘suffer’. But this is reassuring. There is a light in the tunnel. Thanks for reminding me. Thanks for sharing. God bless
This teaching encourages me to persevere during my own crushing time. Thank you for sharing the word of God with us.
All I need to need to do is remember what Jesus endured for me. I can endure anything because I know that I am never t alone. I just need to remind myself. Thank you for the reminder.
Thank you for this post today. My husband of 9 years and best friend of nearly 20 years (that is over half our lives) has decided that we need to try a trail separation. I am crushed. I am afraid. I am heartbroken. Not only for myself but for our children. This message helped me today because I can relate that this is something that may be needed to help us grow. I have wanted to purchase your series for a long time and it is sitting in my amazon cart LOL but finances just haven’t allowed. I would love to be selected to receive this special package. Thank you for blessing so many with your ministry.
I am being crushed with the circumstances in my life but your blog writing so encouraged me to “keep moving”. God’s ways are higher than my ways. Thanks a ton!
This spoke right to my heart! Thank you so much! I stumbled upon your posts and your Uninvited book when I was “crushed”. It helped me so much and although it’s still hard I can feel God’s peace over me and when I reach out to Him feel my anxiety and heartache easing. Thank you so much for blessing me and so many others with your words!
I am reading Ininvited and absolutely loving it! THANK YOU so much for being vulnerable about your struggle with feelings of rejection. This has been a struggle for me my entire life. God is doing a good work! Praise HIM!!’
Such a good reminder to know that when hard times or moments of despair come that God is making us stronger through this. Thank you!
I appreciated this reminder today, that when I feel crushed, Jesus really does understand how I’m feeling. What a great truth that we are crushed but not destroyed.
This is so true and so timely to our current circumstance. Thank you!
Tears. Pressed so hard right now.
Not realizing that the crushing is for preserving..the enemy is so crafty as He uses it to cause shame..
thank you for sharing this today, I needed it to be reminded that I too..am a work in progress..
Melody
“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;”
Not distressed. Not in despair. Not forsaken. Not destroyed.
I need to write & read this slowly and often….thank you.
This is such a beautiful picture of our hope in times of distress. Thank you for the reminder that even when we feel we cannot endure, that if we turn and look to Jesus and trust Him, He will preserve us, give us hope and strength, and someday we will see the good that came from the difficult times. Oh, how I needed reminding of this today as I watch my daughter go thru the most difficult of circumstances that I cannot do anything about.
Very timely message. We are currently going through a crushing process with our adult son right now.
I needed to read this right at this moment. I feel so crushed. i need to realize that even though I love my daughter, God loves her so much more. Only He knows why she refuses to have anything to do with me. I feel blessed to have be her mother but she belongs to God. Since she is my only child…I feel completely alone. Please pray for me. And I would love to read this book. It seems like one thing after another keeps crashing in on me. Is there hope?
Thank you for letting God use you to express this vital part of life… the pressing times. A year ago my church found out our pastor had acute myeloid leukemia. He had brought so many new members in and gave a thirst for the word I had never experienced.
He went through procedures, ups and downs,and chemo. He would preach a Sunday and then be out for a while due to illness or being weak. This period our church prayed. We lost members and our faith shaken. This man whom loved God and was so equipped by him to lead and share Gods word was going through a terrible storm.
I do have a bright side. We are still being pressed but our Lord has healed this man. He is in remission and still with full force preaching the gospel. Anyone in any situation can be pressed it’s who we turn to that shows how our relationship with God stands. Do we stand on his word and pray prayers of only the impossible God size prayers or move to the next church ?
Thank you! The visit to “The Garden” in Jerusalem in 2015 was an overwhelming experience as I was walking in an unknown situation in my marriage. The symbolism in the Holy Land makes the Bible read in color. Love the olive tree story! Shalom.
Hi Lysa – thank you for sharing this article about how God can use hard times for our ultimate good and benefit. I have been reading Uninvited and gave it to 5-6 close friends this Christmas. I am hoping to possibly use the book and workbook with some of the young women in the youth group at my church. Would you recommend the workbook for all ages? I think it’s even harder to handle and process the hard crushing things when you’re 12-16. Thank you!
Hi,
I read this a short time back on FB and loved it. It is no coincidence that it arrived in my in box today. It is my favorite. I printed it the first time I read it and have it in my office and at home. I also purchased a small olive tree and have it in my kitchen window. I see it every morning as I make coffee and every evening as I clean up. It helps me to almost welcome the tough times as a reminder that God isn’t done with me yet. He is using these times to shape me into the person he has always intended me to be. Today I learned of some hurts my sister is going through. I was sitting at my desk struggling with how to help her and in came your the story of the olive tree. I am going to print it and give it to her with my little olive tree. I hope she finds as much comfort in it as I do. Thank you for all your stories and teachings. I look forward to them everyday.
Lysa, this is my first visit to your blog, I’m reading your book, “Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl” and saw your blog mentioned there. I’ve been praying about how I can reach out to a dear friend who is going through a very crushing time in her life. Today’s blog has given me some insights to share with her. I so appreciated the verse, Mark 14:34….reminding me that when I’m feeling crushed, Jesus has been there. He knows exactly how I feel and He is holding me in the palm of His hand as I go through these trials. Being in the refiner’s fire is never easy, but becoming more like Jesus is our joy. God bless.
Thank you. I was in my counselling appt today talking about the ongoing crushing that is happening in my life and my Counsellor asked what was I learning from what was going on. I said I didn’t know. Your post today was bang on for what I needed to hear today. I am being refined in this process. God has a purpose for me. I must not give up hope. Thank you!
Our middle son, Kevin, who is 30 and married and has 2 daughters has chosen to leave. They have no contact with any of us and it’s the cry of our heart to be together again. We have tried to reconcile but they want nothing to do with any of us or the entire family. Their has been life (births) and deaths and still no contact. We send cards to their home which are unanswered but not returned.
I/we are trusting God to take this precious family and heal all of us from the inside out. To be a loving family as we once were. The “whys’ and how’s” don’t matter as Jesus knows. In His time all be right. It’s just waiting that has taken a toll on me. A mothers and a grandmothers love is like non other. I’m saddened but I know His truth and His promises are for us. For now we carry on the very best we can.
I’m on the study of “Finding I AM” online and it’s simply amaising.
Thank you for letting me share a small part of my life!
God Bless You today and always!
This is such a very timely reminder that God has me in the palm of His hand, even in this very trying time. There’s a purpose to the pain. Thank you!
This sounds so true of my friend Carey right now. She is in jail and trying to find answers to so many life questions. She is studying and trying to live out what she learns in a very harsh environment. I would love to be able to share your insights with her.
Thank you for this post today! I’ve been really wrestling with how and why these things in my life are happening. But then as God only can, he gently and firmly reminds me through this post and His amazing word that there are reasons for these seasons. His promises are still truth and life. His faithfulness and grace still reign. I can’t do it on my own and that’s ok because He will never leave me nor forsake me. He is with me through it all and he provides all I need. Thank you Lydia for such a timely word!
God has used pressing in my life to help teach me to abandon/surrender that which seems on the surface to be ready to crush me but in His divine plan to refine me. I praise Him through the storms and give thanks for the answered prayer of Uninvited. I have read it but need so desperately to dig deeper and heal a 40 year hurt that has paralyzed me. I’ve had progress but am praying for more. I saw you speak in Lafayette, LA in October at Our Savior’s Church conference. YOU were the reason I went and a God sent. I would be humbled to be a student of the word under your guidance and to finally accept the rejection was actually God’s protection.
Praise be to God. His Word is life and alive. I love how God shows us how the spiritual work by giving us a natural pattern and picture.
Oh how my heart and soul needed this word. I’ve been feeling the crushing feeling and the agony that comes with it due to circumstances in life from a messy divorce to a sick father and many other things in between and it feels sometimes as if I won’t be able to go on. The refreshing reminder that God is sovereign and on control and is using the sin of this world for good to refine me eases the pain. Thank you for your insight and constant reminder that God is good through it all.
I feel crushed right now. I just ended a 5 year relationship. But it’s been even harder than my divorce. My heart hurts. I know God is near, and I’m learning to trust. I’m trying to move on, into whatever His plan may be. It’s hard not to struggle. I describe it like being in a “mental straight jacket”… Fighting, pushing, pulling… Anything to stop the pain. And then I read God’s word, and He always has something to tell me that is perfect for my moment. And then, I rest.
I’m not being crushed at the moment…thank you Lord, but I have been deeply crushed it feels like so many times in my life. I see loved ones being crushed so intensely and feeling so helpless in their struggles. Your article helps me remember, helps me to never forget that it is only by Gods grace I am here today. where God has me now is for his purposes and I will try my best to be sensitive and pray, pray, pray for those I can help thru their crushing times.
Thank you for this timely post and words of wisdom. An aha moment for me was when you wrote : “Crushing is the way of preservation for the olive. It’s also the way to get what’s most valuable, the oil, out of the olive. Keeping this perspective is how we can be troubled on every side yet not distressed … pressed to the point of being crushed but not crushed and destroyed.”
We can’t always see the why of the trial or the why of the crushing to where it feels like death, but we can be reminded that we will not be destroyed but pressed and pushed for the best, what is yet to be seen.
After a lifelong cycle of abusive relationships and substance abuse (clean 3 years!), I finally have had my ah ha moment about the men I allow into my life…I have been beaten down mentally and emotionally over the past 7 years and God simply removed him from my life on Dec 17. At almost 34 (Feb 28th), I am at a place where I am ready to be alone and work giving myself the love I so freely give to men. I made the decision on Dec 17th that I would be single and celibate for at least a year. I love your ministry and the things you post are very often the exact thing I need to hear at the exact time I need to hear it. Thank you for all you do.
I am really encouraged by reading emails from you. I would really love to read the uninvited book that you wrote. I have went through something like uninvited so often and I believe this book will really help me <3 Thank you for your wonderful messages from God <3
Today has been one of those “hide from the world” kind of days. So many issues, sometimes we just get tired & forget that God is using this situation/ season to grow us & prune. Your words were such a great reminder for me today! Thank you!!
Thank you for the encouragement! I’m trying so hard to trust and follow Jesus in the this time of my life. I have survived drug addiction, an abusive relationship, and divorce. I’m a single mom and struggle everyday with health issues and the ups and downs with raising kids. I know that God will give me what I need each day. I just have to trust and praise Him.
This is exactly what I needed to read. In fighting legally to keep my grandson in my home as his mothers house it’s not safe. I’m crushed because I have to fight my own daughter…leaving me feeling crushed. It it’s great to know that our Jesus understands because he’s been there. My battle has just begun and I know the victory is his. I would love this study fighting depression and tears..feeling alone being a single grandma..mom it’s challenging. Thank you for your encouragement.
Tina Downey
I am in this moment now. I believe God has called me to a particular vocation. I am at a loss over what to do next. I keep thinking that if I just do “enough” God will open the last door to the maze for me. It’s been almost three years and nothing has seemed to work out. So, of course, I question God and myself. Did I hear Him correctly. And I always sense that He is saying, “Trust Me, wait on Me.” I feel as if my life is wasting away waiting on God. I am 41 after all. And I question if I should just get a corporate job for the meantime. But each time I sit to fill out an online application, I feel the HS pressing me, knowing this isn’t the way. HUGE SIGH!!!!!
Thank you for the reminder that even through this crushing time of my marriage falling apart, God is using it to take me from bitter to useful!
I’ve been crushed down by loads of challenges these past couple of months, stucked into decisions that almost made me awake all night but despite of all of what I’ve gone through, I hold on to this verse – 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. Even if I’m losing myself, the hope and love God has poured me made me keep moving forward. I am truly blessed and grateful that those crushing moments made me feel how God can turn things completely the other way around, in His perfect time. There is no mountain He cannot move.
This really speaks to my heart right now. I have been going through a difficult time for the last two years. Often I find comfort in your words and they are often from this book but I have not yet read it. I would love to be chosen for this pack. Thanks!
I have been fighting a battle inside myself for so long. One year ago today I tried to take my own life. Today on the anniversary of that my husband moved out. He wants a divorce. I have been working so hard on me, on centering my life around God, trusting God. Today I am clinging to Univited. My friends have sent my scripture but this, this is the first bit of peace I have felt. I am reminded that there is value in me because of Him. I am reminded I only see a small piece of His plan and I’m going to be ok.
I appreciate that your teaching blog showed up in my email today. A year ago I lost my oldest daughter to melanoma. We were devastated. While we know that she is with our Father, the loss of her has been at times overwhelming. She was only 31, a wife, a mother of two small children, a daughter, a sister and sister-in-law, a granddaughter and a psychologist. But has hard at is has been dealing with this loss, I sense God’s presence in so many ways. I understand that I may never understand why God did not heal her on earth, but I know He had a plan for her life and He has a plan for her death. I thank you for your words – I would to be like the olive tree and use what I have been taught this year to honor God.
Honestly, I am not disciplined in reading these emails everyday. Too busy in my mind to stop and breath and read. Something stopped me today to read this and it came at the exact perfect time. Some things are pressing on me and my family right now and this just reminded me that there are some things that we go thru to grow, to be better even if it seems that they are breaking us, they my just be bending and turning us to the right direction. So that we may stay on the path to him. thank you so much for your guiding words today. To bless is the greatest blessing. Thank you
Such timely words for me.
Beautiful!
My Brittany text to the family.
I posted on Facebook and Twitter ?
I recently lost my little boy.. To say that I am crushed is an understatement. However, when I am weak he is strong. I can have hope because of Heaven. Thank you Lysa for your words.. I feel like God is using you to speak to me in every post I read.
Such a timely read for me. My friend texted it to me as I’ve been in such a feel battle of depression. I just told her yesterday I feel such a spiritual darkness and I’m wrestling with God as fight bitterness and anger with some recent and past hurts with my mother. Thank you Lysa for this truth. I’m going to print it out to re read it when often!
This definitely struck deep in my heart. It has been so overwhelming sometimes it’s hard to breathe. This will be something I come back to daily to keep before my eyes. The east wind is very painful. So ready for the west wind. Thank you for sharing this article.
I know for sure, if I hadn´t read and heard what Lysa teaches, I would not have survived the circumstance I´m in right now. I have meet Jesus in a way I did not know it was possible, and Lysa helped me to find this Jesus, to have a relationship with Jesus. I am so glad I found Lysa Terkeurst, I know for sur it was Gods way that lead me to her. I can so relate to Jesus´ sentence in Mark 14,34, I can almost touch the sorrow and the pain.
This picture of the olive helps me to understand a little bit why I have to suffer and through this so very hard season.
Thank you so much for being Gods vessel and for serving Him so that I could see and know Him!
I’m crushed that after fighting the Lord’s Will for 11 years, I have finally surrendered and yet cannot make sense of the rejection and pain that came with the surrender. I know He loves me and will not forsake me in my obedience – but it hurts.
Oh, I loved this devotional today! Such some great reminders of truth my soul needed to be nourished with today! Thank you Lysa!
I picked up the book thinking I would get nothing from it. I had none of these issues, I’m a fairly confident person, then I stated reading! I felt like you had climbed into my mind and knew me far too well. I gave my book to a friend and bought several friends the book for Christmas. I am amazed at how God has used that book to uncover and heal hurts in my life and the lives of my friends. We would love to have the videos to watch and get together and do the study together with.
Thank you for sharing your heart. My husband and I lost our baby 2 weeks before Christmas this last year, it has been so very difficult, and this reminded me of where my faith is, and who it is in,when I needed it most.
I have been in this olive pressed season for almost 2 years and I felt my heart growing bitter and callused. I have felt so alone in this process and kind of angry with this sudden, extended change in my heart and spirit. It is only recently that I have opened up to some close friends and family about how I have been feeling so overlooked by God, which has been hard. It’s been 2 years of wrestling with my faith and hope in God’s ability to be my provider. Anyway, I share this to say, thanks Lysa. Thank you for this posting. It has given me some hope and good prospective on the purpose of hard times. Enduring both the east and west winds is something I have never heard about; what a way to look at that part of Jesus’ story. You always bring such great wisdom and perspective.
As a young Christian, I thought I needed to. Pray for the Refiner’s fire to break me and make me what I should be. I didn’t realize what I was asking for. Since then I have faced many many difficult situations, sometimes leaning on God’s word right away…..and sometimes trying to fade them alone and my way. As I allowed God to take these times and walk me through them….however crushing they were….I made it through to the other side. I know I couldn’t have gotten through the Refiners fire with Him.
Yesterday was a crushing day. My father who has dementia was moved to rehab with a broken leg, work is challenging and we are in the midst of our busy season and I received a note that my sever year old son had bit another child at school. Crushing yes, but I know these times are refining me and preparing me to be of use, something more than I am now, holding one and Trusting Him.
Exactly what I needed today.
Thank you, sincerely.
As a young Christian, I thought I needed to Pray for the Refiner’s fire to break me and make me what I should be. I didn’t realize what I was asking for. Since then I have faced many many difficult situations, sometimes leaning on God’s word right away…..and sometimes trying to face them alone and my way. As I allowed God to take these times and walk me through them….however crushing they were….I made it through to the other side. I know I couldn’t have gotten through the Refiners fire without Him.
I needed this today an old friend Is dying, and I feel crushed.
I see from others’ comments that this has hit a “tender spot” for many, as it has for me.
At the beginning of this blog post, I read this line:
“After all, we don’t snap pictures of the crushing times and post them on Instagram.”
It seems like the comments on this topic are providing those “pictures” of the crushing times, and in this, we share one another’s burdens.
I needed this good word today! Thank you, Lysa!
oh, thank you, Lysa! I needed this encouragement. I have been experiencing crushing for a while now. This reminds me to persevere, and now I’m looking forward to what oil God will produce from me!
My husband and I are currently being “pressed”, although it feels more like destruction at hand, from all sides, for the both of us, in different situations. I DID FORGET!!! And I am quick to start declaring, get behind me satan! And in that, the Holy Spirit recently led me to soak in the book of James. It has reminded me, I will win, and by the grace of God, we will win! Thanks for writing and sharing this. Speaks volumes about the Lord’s processes. I liked the east and west winds analogy with the olive. Your posts are always on point for me. I’ll send this to my husband later tonight to edify him, too.
As my husband battled cancer in 2016, there was much crushing…BUT God blessed us throughout the year. The crushing brought glory to God and His story continued through us. Our story throughout the year shone His light even in the midst of the trials. So enjoyed your post today Lisa. Just purchased Uninvited. Would love to do the whole study with DVD. You are a blessing and I want to thank you for all your wonderful previous books!
Just -Thank you.
Your posts speak to me.
Re: The Crushing Times {Lysa TerKeurst}
People
Patricia Edwards Today at 3:23 PM
To
Lysa TerKeurst
Message body
Dear Lysa, I would love to win a copy of this, you have touched my heart to the very core. You came to me with this email at a time I absolutely couldn’t have asked for a better time or answers. I know it’s in 1st Corinthians a lot, but for the last year or so, The Compassion of the Lord Isaiah Chapters 54 and 55, stand out to me. The last 2 1/2 years have been rough to say the least. My heart has been longing for a Gethsemene of my own. For example, chapter 54 vs 10 ” For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed, says the LORD who has compassion on you, then 55 vs. 7, now you’re email, BAM!
I think I may have sent you the link I’ve got our family and home on go fund me for foundation repairs, but between repetitive belief, prayer, and then the desire to find that place , this “rock” Jesus shed tears of blood, I would love to find that place of tears, and just know to touch or be near that place, it’s where my savior wept, he prayed, is it the rock he cried on, is that the tree he touched, oh how my heart longs for it.
So to go along with you as to why I would be honored to have your gift, it would mean the world to me, but I hope I haven’t blabbered and lost you. 🙂 I’m just blinded with tears and excitement, most of all, HOPE that you sent this email when I was already in tears of despair. I truly pray for you Lysa, everyday, I’m so thankful God has placed you in my life. I love the extraordinary womens conferences. I’m just a well, 44 on Sunday the 5th wife to a good husband, 2 beautiful children, one special needs, and a God that is always there. Thank you for not giving up, you do make a difference, and what you do matters. I love you, your sister in Christ, Tricia Edwards Salem, Virginia
Email number 2-Sweet Lysa, I am enclosing another email that may go to your spam or somewhere just letting you know, this is the song I was listening to in prayer this morning, and has been my hearts cry. Tell me what you think. Love Tricia Edwards Salem VA. Bill & Gloria Gaither – Have You Had a Gethsemane? (Live) hope this comes through for you.
Bill & Gloria Gaither – Have You Had a Gethsemane? (Live)
Official video for “Have You Had a Gethsemane? [Live]” feat. The Homecoming Friends Download on iTunes here: htt…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1liMo2PuIH8
Last email before I found comments. love you, Tricia
To
Lysa TerKeurst
Message body
Click here to support Edwards Family Foundation Repair by Patricia Edwards
Sweet Lysa, I know you just went through an incredible bad health time too,so I’m just asking you to read and please pray and pass this along, for me, the whole Gethsemane today, again I can’t thank you enough. I have hope in my heart where it was cracked much like this foundation. I hope I win 🙂 (your contest) ha ha. I know I’ve won the battle on the other side already. Love you, Tricia Edwards Salem, Virginia
Click here to support Edwards Family Foundation Repair by Patricia Edwards
Well here is the beginning of the nightmare we didn’t have a clue would get this bad so quickly, 12 years. T…
Wow, I’m daily struggling many years now in a hard marriage. Every day. Every breath. This encouraged me that God is also making this transformation in us. And it takes time and sorrow and pain, sometimes. Often times.
I’m being crushed right now. I’ve just gone through a year of a broken relationship with my son and daughter in law, after years of having a close relationship with them and my adopted granddaughter. A couple weeks ago they accused me of some theft from them, and shared their plans to press charges against me. At that time they also stated they no longer wanted a relationship with me, and I would not be allowed to see my granddaughter nor the child my daughter in law is pregnant with right now. We’ve spoken to a lawyer and found out the charges have no merit. But my heart grieves over the loss of relationship with my children and grandchildren.
At the beginning of the year, I summarized these three points and posted them to Facebook because it helped me articulate how I was coping with the crushing of 2016. Thank you for sharing your insight and wisdom, Lysa!
Lysa,
I have read many of your articles, and all have spoken to me. But today, this pierced my soul. Overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. It seems that way sometimes. But I know that this is all part of my process. My path to find preservation. Thank you.
Lysa, in the midst of going through my divorce where I feel alone, trapped, stranded, I found your Facebook page and this very vital blog read today. I feel crushed, in complete sorrow and heart broken for my kids and I as I continue to unfold and uncover the hidden secrets that were kept from me for some time. The memories I have with my husband date way back to us being high school sweethearts. It is hard to ndertsna s the reasons why he decided to cheat and find “love” elsewhere when he had a loving wife and 3 beautiful children who called him dad, hero, and their best friend. ? As I struggle now in my most difficult time as a mother and individual, I can find myself relating to the Olive Tree. (I love olives and olive oil so it makes an even stronger love grow for the tree knowing what it must go through in order to be loved by another.) being crushed now, doesn’t mean it’s forever. This too shall pass. I shall persevere and crawl out of the darkness I find myself in and remember with bad, comes good. Thank you for this blog read today of all days.
I would love to own this book and guide. I am currently selected from my husband but we are counseling and trying to work through our marriage. I am constantly searching for things to read and listen to that will give me that reassurance that” God’s got this”.
Hi Lysa,
I just want to thank you for writing “Uninvited”!! Your book really spoke to my soul.
Your words resonated with what I am going through in my life.
I just found you on Facebook, and I signed up for the Bible study-“Finding I Am”.
Unfortunately, I don’t have that book. I did receive “Uninvited” from “Faithbox”, which I absolutely Love!! I would love to win this giveaway for the “Uninvited” bible study and DVD.
I don’t have the extra money to purchase the book “Finding I am” I will be able to participate in the bible study for “Uninvited” if I win this giveaway.
Anyway, thank you for wonderful words- you inspire me!
My girlfriends and I are doing the “Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl” study and had just decided to do Uninvited next. So I have been watching the FB page more recently and it seems like every time I do, the word is completely timely and God is speaking to me through it. I have had in the last few weeks, several friends who have been diagnosed with a range of life-threatening illnesses, from MS to cancer. I have felt so hopeless watching others be crushed by life. I have my own issues, but they pale in comparison to what I have seen others thrown their way. Reading this today, I was encouraged not just for myself, but for my friends. I will pray they are reminded of the olive tree, and I’ll be sharing this amazing word with them in hopes it gives them encouragement like it has for me. Thank you for the ministry and work you’re doing. It affects so many lives and is an amazing testimony to what God’s done in your life.
This isnso relevant for me right now as my child and I are going through a host of health issues. It really gets to me somedays, but this helps me remember this too shall pass and we will be better and God will see us through! Thank you for sharing 🙂
This past year has been one of much pressing and crushing. It has been painful and so challenging, but that beneficial oil is beginning to seep out. Slowly, but surely, God is bringing healing to my life and showing me what he has in store for my life. I am learning that I must lean on him at all times, whether I am experiencing the harsh east wind or the life giving west wind. God is good and I can rest in the shade of his goodness.
I’ve been so crushed. Broken into a million pieces beyond what I thought for a minute could be put back together. I’ve gotten on my knees and have asked the Lord to pour his strength into me. I believe me reading this would give me strength and insight into God’s plan for me and how I can use this as a testimony for his Glory.
Our church is being crushed right now. We are waiting (& waiting & waiting) for a new Lead Pastor. It’s been almost 2 years since our former pastor retired. We had a “new guy” for a few months, then he had an affair with a staff member & was dismissed. The Interim guy has been here over a year now. Does some things well but is creating tension & discord in other areas. Search committee doesn’t seem to be working well together & have offered position to a man, who turned it down. Same thing may happen this week. We need to remember that God is allowing us to be crushed but He won’t allow us to be destroyed!
It reminded me even though when I go through hard times God is in control and that he has got this .
This helped me today as I am being crushed financially. I have let overspending take over my life. I need to learn to balance and let’s God fill my worth!
Wow! This hits so close to home as I struggle with bitterness as I deal with my sister and feeling like I am doing most of the traveling to see our parents, One lives in New Jersey and one in Alabama. I am now in South Carolina as she is in Pennsylvania. I am the one burning up the road to see them. God is good keeping me safe but it gets old always being the one traveling. I feel that I am always giving of my time and resources to see them. I have been praying that God would help me in my bitterness cause I don’t like feeling this way. To find out that it is a process and I am on the way as the olive tree is a freeing feeling cause I have been asking God to take out the hardness of my heart. Thank you!!
Okay literally that was so good and this book has changed my life!!! I gave 6 copies away for Christmas to my teachers friends and family! I have recommended this book to everyone I know and read it twice (reading it for a 3 time now). I am blessed with it and would not be close to a God right now if it wasn’t for this book and it’s wisdom! Thank you!!! If I won this would mean the world to me!
It would be fun to do this with the Bible study group I’m in! I have a book, but not the rest of it.
Lysa, you are awesome! I love your daily encouragement. Uninvited changed me and Finding I Am is changing me. I just signed up for my second trip to She Speaks and cannot wait. I pray God stays close to your heart and continues to infuse you with the joy, peace, and perspective you need for each day. It is my DREAM to be a part of your ministry. P31 has changed me and inspired me, and I would love to join your journey!! Hugs!
Thank you for your words. The Lord has gifted you with such prose to speak to our hearts…To know His heart! And give is faithful reminders. For the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. Thank you for the regular reminders!
It’s so encouraging to know, the pressing I’m going through will bring the best from me. And it will be the best for me from God. Thank you Lord for your promises and for being the most faithful promise keeper!! Amen.
I am reminded that tough times are a process–not a forever.
This was very timely in my life. Of course God knows what we need. We have been through a lengthy dry season in ministry filled with attacks from the enemy. We are hopefully because we trust in Jesus and the prophetic word He sends us. I know he is just taking his time to prepare a place for us to flourish in him just as it takes many steps to prepare an olive.
Being crushed with my son’s diagnosis of epilepsy this now gives me hope.
I disciple student College women and I love how you talked about Jesus teaching them under the Olive tree and I love to hear it is not the end and the wind needed from both sides. My daughter and I both read “Uninvited” over Christmas break from her college and it ministered to her greatly as well as myself. It helped her get through a crushing time and myself since it was crushing watching it be so for her. Thank you for your words of encouragement. She said her Pastor told her about the book and it is funny because he picked up his wife’s book and expected it to be a women’s book and ended up reading the whole thing! I had it here and that prompted her to devour it over Christmas break. Thank you because sometimes we just need encouragement and to know it is normal to experience this pain.
I have a hard time with bitterness. I didn’t realize it took time to get rid of it. I also have a hard time with pain. I know in my mind that there are hard times and bad. It is hard for me to reconcile this in my mind. I’m impatient person but it does take time. I’m working on getting a better mind set so I can fight bad thoughts. I’m spending time in the Word with the “Finding I Am,” Study by you. I also learned by this blog is crushing getting rid of the parts of me that needs to change. It is a good perspective.
Just went through a season of trials and these words were balm for my soul. Thank you. I will look at olives in a whole new light.
God is teaching me to view His provision differently. It doesn’t always come in bills being paid when I want them to or through the job I have. But through relationship and through faith and through believing He is who He says He is. The valley is not just a place of dry bones but a place where the good times can be viewed from a right perspective. It’s all unearned and undeserved and it’s heart-wrenching to recognize the beautifully grace-bought “good times.”
Crushing reminds me of how He suffered for me.
Oh how I feel crushed! The pain, the grief and the steady stream of tears down my cheek! That’s how I felt in September and October. November I was still numb. December brought the bittersweet memories of Jeffrey and Christmas past! Through all this pain I kept hearing “I will never leave you”. Through prayers and reading my bible and following your daily devotional I was able to get through my day without giving up! I know I have a long way to go yet, but with the strength from Jesus I know I can keep going. Thank You so much for sharing your heart with us ❤
This teaching today brought to life even more why we go through crushing times. I was really focused on the processing part because right now I feel like I am in the waiting period. Waiting, waiting, and waiting some more. Waiting day after day for that one email back from an interview can be a crushing moment. But it’s during these times that we learn to trust God even more because He is working things out. Thanks for your passion to teach others.
It helped me with work situations where some tried to tear me down. It helped me react in the best way and still be loving even when others don’t show love.
I signed up for the online bible study and am already behind, and had been having a bleak January so I decided to watch the intro video hoping for some direction or inspiration. This was the first I had heard of you, that was Monday. Tuesday on my lunch hour with my long to-do list go things I did not want to do, I ran into an arts & crafts store for paper, I flew past a new rack of books one of which had a name that I recognized – yours. I opened your book ” the Best Yes” and so many things jumped out at me, I felt I was being led to the book by the lord. I was very excited when I got back to work to share what happened with my coworkers where one immediately said, I’m just so angry with God I don’t want to read anything like that. In my eyes she had so many blessings that the anger she feels isn’t warranted, but it is hers to feel. I just didn’t know what to say, I talked about the wonderful things she has, though not perfect, they are better than most. I decided to not share with her anymore because I was getting angry thinking she was being ridiculous. until I read today’s message which you have stated in such a beautiful way that may help her understand or deal with some of the things she is going through, I will share, I will try.
I feel so blessed today to have followed Gods guidance, which has led me to your teaching, thank you for your work.
I went through this “crushing” when my son was diagnosed with LCH, a rare cancer. He was 5. I felt my world (and his) spun out of control. I believe that God was with me every minute and God healed him. I persevered. I was held. Thanks for this message and for the generosity of your giveaway.
Wow, thank you so much for this. There’s not a day that I don’t read a chapter in Uninvited that it doesn’t speak directly to my circumstances and what I need to work on. I would love to step out of my comfort zone and be able to lead a study through Uninvited win girls on my campus. So thankful for God’s Word spoken through you in this post, your book, and elsewhere. This struggling college girl has a full heart because of it.
The Truth continues to crush me. I am learning to trust the process from a hopeful heart and am so grateful for your insight. Thank you!
This book changed my life. I was walking through a time of deep sadness and rejection when I happened upon the book on sale at Barnes & Noble. I asked my husband to get it for me for Christmas. He said to just “Treat Yo Self”. I am beyond happy that he did. I bought it and immediately began a process of healing. I have been able to bring comfort to a couple of friends because of what the Lord taught me through it. God LOVES me and that is my foundation. My Rock. My comfort.
Thank You for opening your heart and writing this book. It has changed my life and if it was only for me know that it was worth it all.
I’ve just started this book and it’s helping me work through the issues left behind after my mothers death and my fathers abandoment. I just signed up to lead devotionals and small group studies for my mops group and would love this resource!
I cannot put into words the help this study will be! God knows all of my uninvited crushing issues I am facing right now, I have no doubt that He will speak to me through this study. Please choose me so I may be guided to listen to what He is trying to tell me!
I’ve never really thought about that with the olive tree and having to be processed before it’s ready. I’ve said many times, both to myself and others, that in order to have the flowers you have to have the rain. Guess that’s the same concept. I have to remind myself often of that though. Thank you for bringing it to us through biblical passages.
God is just starting to give me the revelation of why all this stuff is happening. Seems like a weird time in my life but now the light is starting to shine through and I am starting to count it all Joy.
I try to remember sometimes God puts certain people/situations in our lives for a reason. If they turn out to be people or circumstances that are not always comfortable it is most likely because we are supposed to grow from the experience. If we learn from it and go through it with heads held high, we pass the “test” and show our trust in God.
I resonate so much!! Have felt the sting of rejection as long as I remember and yearn to be free!
This past year has been a really tough one for me with more to come. It helps knowing Jesus fought battles and understands my pain. I’m currently reading this and would love to share it and have the DVD to add to it. Thanks Lysa! I’m also loving the Finding I Am study. It has come at such a perfect time for me ❤️
So many times I feel crushed, but thank you for reminding me that this is part of the refining process. I am crushed but not destroyed. Praise God! Thank you for your inspirational words.
Thank you for this lesson, it helped paint a picture of the truths we know deep inside. I will be thankful and hold on to His promises when I feel crushed because I know God is preparing me to be used for His goodness!
Hollywood gives us the perception that life is supposed to be easy. Marriage is supposed to be easy, finances aren’t supposed to be a problem, careers are handed to you… blah blah blah. And when life isn’t easy, Satan makes us feel as though we’ve failed. What a year it has been, and a lot of it I let Satan take from me- but I’m thankful for the constant reminder through friends, my husband, and influences such as your blog posts that remind me why I should never give up. He’s always there, and Hes always on my side. Thank you for that reminder! I am a co-leader of a small, young women’s community Bible study and would LOVE to be able to read this book together and study through. We are all so different, but so alike in that we simply need Him.
I would love this. Your posts have been especially helpful to me as my family is going through a trying time. I am waiting on God but sometimes it is so hard!
Thank you for this reminder that being crushed leaves us more open to hearing God and growing in faith. You have such a gift; it seems you often have a way of bringing His message to me with a new perspective.
Shows me that sometimes I need to be crushed to get the best out. God will not destroy me though! Thank You, Jesus, for the hard pressing when we need it!
Thank you so very much! What a comfirtimg blessing! Being rejected for so many years by the ones that should love you most has been devastating. Thank you! May God use you and Uninvited for His glory and oyr healing.
You helped me to realize that I am an olive in the process of being preserved even though it tremendously hurts.
Lysa,
I have been crushed on so many levels. I am in the middle of reading this book right now! What a tremendous help your book has been thus far. I would love to have a copy of the book to pass along to my aunt whom could really benefit from reading it at this time in her life. She is going through so much right now. I’d love to have the study guide and DVD to further help me as I struggle with feeling loved. Your ministry has been such a blessing to me during this season in my life.
I can’t wait to share this with the ladies I lead on Wednesday nights at church. Thank you for this teaching.
I have learned so much from the book! I am entering because I want to lead a group of girls thru this. But as far as today’s study, the processing time speaks a lot to me. I have dealt with rejection and I now realize that God has/is sar me apart for a bigger purpose. Sure, I felt with grieving over this relationship but now I can process it fully because I am not learning on that friend, I am 1 leaving on God and my husband! God is showing me purpose in this setting apart season. I can see unhealthy boundaries and expectations. But most of all, I can live loved!! This book is changing me so much!! We are also in the process of adopting 2 girls that we took in 2 yrs ago. This season that came from rejection has opened me up to more time with all 4 of my kiddos and husband. I could go on and on! I would love to do this study with some high school youth and a then ladies the small group that my husband and I lead.
Oh my gosh at the typos!!
Leaning on God not leaving God!!
I love these truth reminders. Daily life seems to override these at times by default, even when we know it shouldn’t. Thank you for reminding us where are hearts need to be!
I have been walking through a long season of healing. Going to a class and counseling once a week. There have been a few things I have gotten stuck on and haven’t been able to overcome. This is one of those things and your blog couldn’t have come at a better time! Thank you for all you do for the kingdom.
This hit right on the mark today. I just came from a visit with a friend who was talking about this very book, as we were discussing how we are in such a weird season right now. A season of being prepared, or preserved, as this says. We so badly want to be useful to bring God glory, but we need to remember this preparation that needs to happen first. It’s an odd season, but an exciting one. How encouraging to remember that the pressing and crushing is not the end!
Last year I was going through my own crushing time. I started reading Lysa’s book, Uninvited, and I felt like she wrote it just for me. I read it through twice last fall and have told everyone I meet that they need to read it. Everyone has those times of crushing and the story of the olive really spoke to me at my deepest place of brokenness. I would love to lead this study as a small group because I think so many women struggle with rejection.
I’m feeling overwhelmed and heartbroken in my life right now. Your teachings and how to combat this problem have helped me so much. It’s a daily struggle and I honestly don’t know how this will turn out but I’m trusting God will see me through! Just lots of emotions! Thank you for your daily teachings and FB posts they help a great deal!
“The crushing times are processing times…For the olive to be edible, it has to go through a lengthy process that includes:
washing,
breaking,
soaking,
sometimes salting,
and waiting some more.
It is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness.”
It has never occurred to me in almost 40 years that it’s ok if it takes awhile to process the bad or be ready to move on and persevere until I read this part of the blog.His work isn’t done in us yet!
When I read this in Uninvited, it really ministered to me as I felt like I was being crushed. It’s a few months later and I’m wondering why I still need to be crushed or am being crushed again. But, I trust God is preserving me.
Thank you so much for this reminder… after 15 years as a single mom and no Christian man in sight, I feel crushed and disappointment at every turn… I want to feel useful…loved and cared for….
I’ve always struggled with feeling worthy, loved, and wanted. The uninvited book was amazing and eyeopening. I was so moved by the book, I prayed about who I could pass it on to that would be blessed by it. So, I passed it on. I really would love to do a small group study with this kit. If selected, I vow to use it with much prayer to help others see their worth and value as a Child of the King.
I loved this book! Such an amazing revelation to realize we are INvited.
We do have to be crushed in order to be salt to others. We wouldn’t be able to relate or feel for others is we didn’t experience crushing times. It breaks my heart that the crushing time I’ve gone through with a family member has been witnessed by my children. But through this God has shown us how to love, forgive, and look beyond ourselves. The hurt has stayed with me but I pray I will be more like Christ when all is said and done. Thank you for your open heart and sharing your life.
Lysa,
This hit home because it seems that I or a member of my family are constantly being slammed with struggle after struggle. It does make you feel defeated and worn down. This teaches us that we may struggle, but God has it under control – whatever our “it” may be- and with him we’ll make it through the struggles. This is the best analogy I’ve read- such a wonderful explanation. Thank you ❤
I am going through rejection with a really good friend and it’s so good to remember my identity is in Christ, not in what others think about me.
Lysa, my sister is going through crushing times right now- a debilitating medical diagnosis, a son who has moved across the country to live with his girlfriend, financial stress, and (yikes!) turning 50 tomorrow. I was going to buy this book for her for her birthday, but would love the chance to actually participate in the study with her. I haven’t helped her as much as I could because I face my own crushing times. This would motivate us to grow together as sisters in life and Christ. Thank you!
Sheri Nelson
Your words are comforting and reassuring that I am loved and I’m not alone.
So needed this today..somedays I feel so crushed and this book has been an incredible blessing to me.. I would love to do a book study with a few of my friends so we can all find freedom!!!
To always look to God for guidance.
Such an amazing reminder of keeping eyes focused on who God wants to be for me during crushing times. Good is good all the time.
Lysa, thank you for these words, The Crushing Times. I’d love to continue with the bible study as I’ve been struggling with finding reasons for these hardships that I’m going through. Thank you for your words today, God bless.
Ugh, the crushing! Thankful that God is always in control. Thank you for thoughts.
I loved the olive tree analogy. How beautiful that God can use our down times for His glory and to minister to others!
Lysa,
I enjoyed your teaching. I struggle with “the process” and how it can be long and trying to change for the better. It seams as though we take a few steps forward and fall back. But it is he getting up and dusting ourselves off and trying again and again that really helps me push through the not so instant results. And that since it is a process it won’t last forever either.
~God bless.
Thank you for sharing your heart with us through your books. Our ladies at my church have done two of your bible studies so far and will be starting this one Feb 11. I have struggled with rejection my entire life. As a pastor’s wife and mom I would like to lead other ladies in breaking free and seeing themselves as Jesus does. Your books/studies have blessed me tremendously. This giveaway would be such a blessing to our small church, ladies ministry.
I love this so much! Sometimes in the midst of our heart we think we are forsaken by God and this post was a reminder that we are not. Sometimes God lets us go through hardships and that’s okay. I like to think of it as the process of the refinement of silver as mentioned in Malachi 3.
Thank you Lysa,
I am emerging from one of those crushing times. I read your posts and books daily. They have helped turn my focus on Him and not the pain. Thank you for your ministry.
Tiff
The example of the olive tree is very insightful. We all struggle with the ‘why’ of suffering. But it does have its purpose.
I’m thankful you always have a way of helping me feel invited ~ thank you
Bless you
being wounded in deep places happen
Oh just those 6 words how they hurt. My wounds are so deep right now and the pain hurts so bad. I know all the Christian answers as to why and how and what to look toward. But in honesty I hurt and it stinks.
What a timely devotion pack. I could really use this pack to lift me closer to the lord, and share with others…Amen
In this particular moment of my life, the significance of the pressing of the olive is important. Not only am I being pressed, but I believe I must also press in. Life has a way of handing us a conglomerate of excuses to live by “going through the motions” , relying on what we know, instead of pressing in to seek new and let the Word fall fresh in us.
This is just confirmation! Thank you!
With my mom in the hospital for 3 months and 6 surgeries, death of my father and diagnosis of our son’s autism after months of bullying, I have felt empty many days. But I look at all that I’ve learned about love, loss, tolerance, forgiveness and understanding – then I realize that these have been lessons on my earthly journey and I fill back up with the Holy Spirit.
I’ve never looked at the perspective of being crushed to help preserve us. I know every battle and every hardship strengthens us, but preserving us is another great reminder that we are not alone and we just need to trust. Trust in Him to carry us through, to know He is already at the end of the battle, and to always keep an open heart.
I don’t mind the washing or the soaking for that matter fit it’s the breaking, crushing and the salting that gets me. I don’t want ythe pain I want a nice process. I’ve been in this process for four years and realize it’s my risistance of the pain that keeps me here. This so speaks to me right here right now. 2012 I went to SheSpeaks and coming home I met some hurt and just can’t seem to get through. I feel abandoned, rejected and just about everything I attempt has failed. I’ve cried many tears, coupled with many sleepless nights. Last night was one of those. I feel lost, confused and just tired of trying anything. Reading this I realized it’s because I ‘m resisting my process. Thanks Lysa.
Marjorie
“It is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness.” Wow! Just. Wow. This is where I’m at. And nobody wants to be here. But after five years as a pastor’s wife in a small church, in a small town, in the middle of no where, 12 hours from any of my family….. I feel lonely, used, hurt, broken, crushed, defeated, and yes, bitter. And I’m just crying out to Jesus to be useful again! But I’ve got work to do and he’s got work to do in me – maybe before he can do work through me again. I’ve got so much growing to do! But I’ve got to get rid of this bitterness! Thank you for this message today. Gives me much needed hope!
It’s been years struggling with depression. I feel so crushed… but only God knows how much I am trying to not feel that way.
I have been facilitating this study at my church and when it ended people asked to do it again, that’s amazing!! Others want to join and I can’t wait to share these truths with them! Thank you for putting this together.
Lysa… thank you for articulating, writing, speaking my heart. I thank God for your ministry and for Pastor Steven Furtick. I attend his services and events online from my home here in California. I have been crushed… all my life. But not destroyed. Your series “uninvited” … I cannot get enough!! Sometimes as I’m reading I just get overwhelmed with wanting to meet you face-to-face and to thank you from the very very core of my being and the bottom of my heart. I am alone… And last night I was laying in bed telling God what an epic failure I am. I’m 55 years old… And nothing… I mean absolutely nothing… is as i hoped. Your book tells my heart and spirit, but I’m not alone. It’s not that I would wish upon anyone else not even my worst enemy this feeling of desperation and fear and loneliness…. but it helps to know that I haven’t been singled out entirely. Thank you for walking me home.
I just want to say that I’m very grateful for your book ‘UnInvited’
My daughter who is struggling to find truth is reading it, enjoying it and I’m praying she come to know Jesus more and more, she is such a beautiful soul and at this time in her life (early 20s) like a lot of us then, is sifting out what this life is all about for her, she’s had her tender heart broken, I know Jesus is pursuing her and I’m praying she will open her heart to Him? So Thankyou for your honestly, vulnerability and most importantly your love for Jesus and obedience to share what He is revealing to you??
Beloved. Really knowing that and declaring that is a daily “crave for”… Blessings to you all.
I remember this teaching on a previous P31 bible study and a daily devotional. Every time I go back and read about the stages of the olive and the symbolism of Jesus and his disciples meeting amongst the olive trees amazes me as if it was the first time learning it.
It’s a great reminder, especially since I am in a hard work situation. I just need to keep in mind this a growth opportunity.
Lysa, I found out about you because my sister read your book, Uninvited. She was in the middle of a difficult season in her marriage. Your posts and blogs have been a constant help in the past months. Today, this blog helped me have hope. My sister’s marriage ended…..not in divorce, but due to a drug overdose. The pain of the loss and betrayal cuts deep. As I walk with her through that, I also face my own hurts. Two years ago, I lost a dear friend…..not to death or a move….but because of what church I attend. It still hurts. I know your study will be a huge blessing and help as we look to Christ for healing.
Lysa,
A friend bought me your Uninvited book and I recently just finished reading it. It is such a good fit and was a wonderful read! I normally can’t stay focused in reading, but YOUR book had my attention, because it spoke to me! I would have loved to have the video and study guide to go along with the book itself. Soon I will be buying more of your books and handing them on to people who need to hear your story. I thank God for my friend giving me your book. I feel so refreshed after reading it. There are many times where I’ve felt “alone”, even when I’m surrounded by tons of people. I’m that person who sits by myself when I’ve been invited to sit among others. Your story has helped me so much and I want to pass it on to others! Thank you!
Wow…Just wow. I’m so needing to hear this today! My husband got one of those calls from his Dr. Last week. Thank you for sharing!
This teaching touched me today and further instilled in my mind how important the trying times are in our life. That each type of trying time is meant to mold us and bring out the best in us. Each pressing and crushing time is the best time that God reveals what’s on the inside of us– how we are made and who made us. From bitterness to good produce– we are transformed daily by the constant renewing of our minds that these times are not really bad things but stepping stones to perfect us in becoming who God made us to be. ? Amen. Thank you, Lysa, for this wonderful message. God bless you with more wisdom and compassion to reach more brothers and sisters of ours and bring them to God’s Kingdom. Amen.
So many in my circle are facing so many crushing issues this would be a great way to help each other through the process!
The crushing is preserving. I love this perspective on suffering.
I am being crushed for my preservation. Seperated from my husband by God’s command. He is a porn addict. I am finally being broken, healed, and a true Follower of God. He promises restoration, but while I am waiting, He is here in the valley with me, transforming me, teaching me my worth only comes from Him, trust, how beautiful brokenness is, that I am beloved, to walk in faith and not sight. I am a single mama of 6 kids, four in the house, two with special needs and all are blessings. God is so good, and I am doing your Finding I am study right now. But times are tight since walking in obedience to tithing. I woukd be profoundly grateful for this study. God bless y’all!
I’m grateful to be reminded that God will redeem the hurts of my heart. I may be perplexed, and feel cast down, but I am NOT destroyed. Thank you for this encouragement!
A great reminder about how God brings us through even better.
So often I seek to rush things. To want to fix things. This reminded me that I must quiet myself in those times, abiding in His love…abiding in His truth.. He is doing a good thing in me, even though it might be painful and uncomfortable! Lysa thank you for sharing your spiritual journey with us. The Holy Spirit often uses your words as a healing balm for my scarred heart. Sister – you are a treasure!
“Its bitterness would make you sick,” really strikes a chord with me. Bitterness really can steal your health, both physically and spiritually.
I love this! I had the opportunity to go to Israel in May & pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. 5 days after I got back, my whole world flipped upside down. Family health problems & a break up that ripped my heart out let me feeling so confused about how to follow Jesus through this pain that wouldn’t lift. Jesus has used your book in such real, healing ways for my heart! I am continuing to learn to fight for light in the midst of darkness & fight to remember that I should CHERISH this horrible season because of the way that I will know Jesus deeper than most get to know Him!
This post reminds me that no matter how despaired I feel, God is with me and He will never leave me. My part is to make sure I allow Him to strengthen me and lead me to the correct path.
“when I feel so utterly incapable and unable and afraid”
Yeah, that’s me right now. I so, so needed this post today. It’s full of truths I forgot. Truths I stopped pressing into. This process may be very painfull at times, but there’s a purpose in it. God knows how to bring out my best, and He’ll use these times to do that. Thank you for that reminder miss Lysa ♡
It’s so hard when you’re in the midst of that process. We so want it to be at the end stage, but He’s still pressing, still refining. For me, it’s a deep ache for friendship. Not thr beginning stuff, not the superficial, but the genuine let’s live life together stuff…
Thank you Lisa- seeing the perspective of the olive tree is helpful. Everyone at one point in their lives will go through this process. I love how Gods word never fails. He will never leave us or forsake us and therefore we will praise him in “everything” we do. 1Thessalonians 5:18
this indeed spoke to me , I had a terrible accident over a year ago, I am in a wheelchair fighting hard to walk again, with therapy and prayer I try to stay very positive, I sometimes have bad thoughts that my therapy is not going as well as I want it too, but I push on shake those negative thoughts out of my head and keep pushing ahead. So now I like the idea of being crushed for preservation . Thank you for lifting my negativity today. I dreamed of myself under the Olive tree.
I feel like my life goes through repeated crushings in the regular. I’m so thankful for Jesus and the hope I have in Him, I am so in need of Him daily. I have victory and am learning to truth in Jesus name! Can’t wait to read this book ?
I have been through so many seasons in my life at only 34 years old. I have been pressed many times, and each time I come out closer to God than I ever was before. I have brothers who are non believers and I pray that as they see me get through the hard times, all the while praising Jesus and thanking Him; that they will one day “get it”. This post reminds me that no one has it easy and all we need to do is to love the Son of God and remember what He went through for us – AMEN. Thank you Jesus!!!
There’s been so much devastation in the last several years. Repeated infidelity that came to light. Chronic migraines that are now daily. I feel crushed.
I would love this study!!! I have past hurts where I was rejected and they seem to surface in today’s problems that I struggle with.
I love this blog from Lysa, it speaks such truth and straight to my heart. The Olive tree example is incredible! And I love what she said about being crushed is for our preservation. So. Very. True.
Praise God for knowing way more than we can see because being here on earth is tough. Seriously, hardcore. Praise our Lord God above that He is in control and sees the whole picture when nothing makes sense to me. ☝
Sometimes Gods light shines most through our weaknesses!
This is no exaggeration-you seem to always know what I need to hear. I’d love complete this Bible study. May God bless.
I am feeling alone, sad, confused, and at times even hopeless. This story gives me an inspiration. I hope I can read the book and enjoy this study.
Hi Lysa, I bought your book last month and I love every moment of reading it! I have been going through much refining these past few years! God has shown such compassion and grace; I know I am held in His arms as I hurt and He is teaching me how to depend on Him in different areas of my life. Thank you for writing this book! I am excited to use it one day encourage young women I meet who are also struggling in this area. xx
I’m feeling pretty crushed by a relationship right now. Thank you for the reminder that God can use the crushing process to produce something wonderful.
It is difficult to write what these readings communicate to me – writing is not my gift 🙂 However here I go – I believe it states that all trials and experiences are meant to form us and prepare us to serve as Jesus intends us to serve others. It is important to ask for the grace to endure these difficult times and trust the experiences are meant prepare us to be whom God knows we can be – even though we may doubt ourselves during these times.
Thank you!
I’m feeling so overwhelmed with so much in life. More than anything, knowing I’m not alone and having your words of truth seep into my heart means so much. Blessings to you as you continue to be a voice of truth to our world today.
This is difficult for me to share this publically. I have went through a very dark place in my life over the past several years. I grew up never knowing my biological father and just came into contact with him about 7 years ago. (Im am now in my late 40’s) Simultaneously, my mother chose to disown me and hasn’t spoken to me for the previous 7 years. I’ve struggled these past years trying to find my identity in life. Even though my mother is alive, I have deeply grieved her as if she had died. It’s been extremely difficult and painful. This past September, my biological father passed away from an aggresive form of bladder cancer. During this difficult time of my life, I have grown much closer to God than ever before. He has shown me that I am forgiven and loved by Him no matter what mistakes I have made. He has shown me so many other blessings that are right in front of my eyes, that I had never seen before. I got to witness my father coming to Christ prior to his passing. What an incredible blessing that was. I still struggle with the rejection of my mother and brother, but I know that God loves me and He will forever be my Father, and I will be His daughter. I would be ever so grateful for your books. Thank you for your ministry. It’s been such a blessing in my life. God Bless!
“pressed to the point of being crushed but not crushed and destroyed.” My daughter came back home last night. Her boyfriend of 5 years, and room mate of 2 broke up with her. She is CRUSHED, heart-broken, but not destroyed. As a Jesus-following-mom, who has been praying for my prodigal, I know that being crushed has the potential for a beautiful & amazing mending, but right now all she can feel is the painful rejection. I pray that God can comfort her heart as He guides her away from this closed door. She has indeed been uninvited by a man, but I pray she hears the invitation of her Savior. Very timely read — good, encouraging reminder for this mom’s heart. <3 Thank you.
I’m currently leading this with a group of women. The importance of finding your identity in Christ alone and being rooted in Him is such a beautiful concept. To also be reminded that Jesus Himself was rejected reminds me how He can truly relate to the pain of rejection.
I like the analogy of the process of the olives. As the olives, we also have to go through this crushing process to come out stronger, Godly women. Not an easy, quick process but a necessary one.
Going through the motions and the process and knowing the end result of what God wants for us can be hard. Especially if time is involved, more time than we can put in or want to put in or the waiting…. thank you for this beautiful message! I appreciate you and your kind words! ❤
I feel like I’m being crushed … again, but knowing it’s a process of getting to the better (not bitter) end of things it what keeps me holding on.
Oh how I needed this! It seems as if I have been in a stage of crushing mentally lately. I am glad I read this & that I have my faith to hold on to. If I didn’t know where I would be. I can’t wait to read this book! It’s on my list for 2017! I’m excited!
This object lesson very helpful to me right now. I’m going thru a season of being pressed that has had me on my knees seeking God for Guidance and things like these blog posts are answers to prayer. I read Uninvited recently twice because of all the good nuggets of truth that pierced my soul.
I have so been feeling uninvited lately and praying for deeper relationships with God and others. I recently signed up to be a small group leader at my church and I would love to lead a study on this book…God’s timing is always perfect!
I forget the things that have crushed me are in the same instance the times that I hung tightest to Jesus. Thanks for this encouraging message.
The whole thing ministered to me as I am feeling so much confusion in the political world and the Church. We all need this reminder. Thank you.
This just reminds me again how far Christ has brought the broken little girl and that He continues to heal my heart. I know that the good, bad and the ugly are for a purpose…His purpose…and it makes it worth it.
But being real…sometimes it just stinks! But I know I am not alone!
Thank you thank you for this teaching. I once prayed for God to show me what breaks His heart. And boy has He shown me! I’d be so grateful to have a copy of this to share with others going through the same thing
Wow that totally gave the olive tree a completely new a different perspective to me. It was a definitely whhhhhhhat moment. I loved it so much Im going to share it with others! If this was just a taste of what uninvited is … then yes! I would like the study guide to share with other women and come together.
The naturally bitter olive must be crushed to to be useful…wow. Such truth. I’m feeling the pressure of the crushing to the people all around me. The enemy attacks my heart and mind through my past, but the Lord prevails. I see it in many of my friends and women around me…would love to bring this study to them, to minister to their hearts.
Crushing = preserving.
Loved this book. I really want to present it as a ladies study.
It is in our darkest times that we need the light of Jesus in our life…yet it is the time it is sometimes the hardest to see the hope and love and peace that comes only through him. This was wonderful to read as a mother to toddler twins, I know many more times are ahead where I will feel crushed and pressed….may studies like yours and the Word itself remain my constant companion!
It’s very easy for us to forget that God has to bring us to a point that we can be fruitful. Just as the olive tree goes through the process, the olive goes through the process, we have to go through the process so that we can bear the very best fruit. God wants the best for us, and out of us. Sometimes it doesn’t take long, other times it seems like forever. I know that I have to remember that when I am going through difficult times, that God is bringing me to be the very best. The best for Him, the best for others, the best for myself. Look at the beauty of the fruit after its transformation.
“It is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness… “So true, yet not so fun…. His grace is sufficient…
I have been crushed by many and with out God I would not have the Joy I have. I spend more time with him these days. Im reading the book Crave and doing the bible study I am. Im loving both of them!!
I feel like I am being crushed now. My daughter asked for your book for her 21st birthday as she has repeatedly been deeply wounded. It is helping her. I know she’d love the entire package and I would like to learn to better deal with life. Failing miserably at the moment.
Thank you Lysa for being so authentic and relatable. That seems to be such a rare gem in these days where everyone wants to pretend perfection. And though I’ve never considered olives in the way you’ve explained, I assure you I’ll forget it now. God Bless!
My whole life is falling apart: financially, career-wise, my love life. The past few months have been total devastation with frequent tears & lonely nights. I am working through the I Am Bible study right now & it’s helped so much. I’ve been reading about this book & study & just know that it would carry me even further into God’s love and to live the life He has planned for me. This book has been speaking to me, would appreciate it so much!
3 days ago I had a seizure & now my life is flip turned upside down. I’m a single Mom & cannot drive for 6 months and pray that medication prevents more seizures. I love your studies & this one would be such a blessing to me.
I am currently reading the book and would like to dive deeper with a study. As a person who is always positive, can find the good in any situation and usually always has a good attitude, I have had family and friends turn their back on me for either unknown reasons or reasons that are their doings. Uninvited has been a great read do far, I can so relate. Your writing is appreciated by me and sooooo many others.
It reminds me that no matter what the circumstances, God is in control and had a plan.
I love your imagery! What truly spoke to me was the fact that even though the olive is crushed, it’s not the end. Just like we have to go through the process (sometimes a “crushing
one”) to be molded into who God wants us to be. Amen, thank you!
Oh how i’d love to have this set. My mother in law just finished this in a small group and she said it was fantastic!!
This is just what I needed today
I am reading the book right now. And many of your words, thoughts, insights….speak to me as I was forced to end a 27 year marriage becaise my now ex husband chose to have an affair. It has been crushing. But I am working on it…on me..through Him.
Oh my word! All your points are right on target! !! Sometimes I think you’re writing just to me. There’s been so many seasons of rejection in my life from my parent’so divorce to my own later in my own. From being new every other year at a new school to trying to find the right church family in my adult years. From dealing with my child walking down wrong paths and trying to not feel judged by other parents in the process and serve in ministry. The Lord has been good to me, faithful and patience while I go through the process of being pressed. Thank you #TheProcessOfThePress
We see people all around us that are feeling pressed, and perhaps crushed at times, but for those of us who are not experiencing that season right now, we can bring hope to others by coming alongside them with comfort and reminding them that this is a season…not forever and God brings good out of those trials.
There are so many beautiful stories on here that I’m sure mine doesn’t compare.
See, I met Jesus late in life. Made a mess of everything living the world’s way my whole life. The person who pursued me and never rejected me was my big sister, Leah. I was a hardcore atheist and she INVITED me to church every.single.Sunday.
Long story short, I finally gave in and that same Sunday I encountered God, He shattered my hard heart and mended the pieces with His rich grace. He’s put me in the fire to temper me and continues to refine me, but I am completely and utterly new because I was pursued, loved and invited.
But my sister.
Since that time she’s suffered 18 miscarriages and a still birth.
Her broken heart and brokenness has made her believe God doesn’t love her anymore. That she is not worthy. That she is Uninvited.
I would love if she won this study. And maybe God’s infinite love could shine through it and proclaim loudly to her how dearly He does love her, that He has always been there mourning with her and she has not been rejected. And that our greatest pain can become purpose.
I so often feel like I am the only one with these feelings. My bible study group is reading this book and it feels so good to know that I am not alone.
I was laid off from my job the 1st week of January. I felt crushed at first but I prayed about my situation and have peace about it now. I know Jesup has a plan for me.
Reading Uninvited right now! Love love love! It as ministered to me in so many ways! I am being shifted sifted crusted and reformed by the potter! My husband and I lead a couples groups at our church! I minister to a lot of the ladies one on one! I would love to share your book with them! To help them see they are not set aside but set apart for such a time as this! Thank you!
I’ve known that crushing of my heart quite often over the years and it is only in retrospect that I’ve seen the growth and results of both crushing & pruning. Past hurts, marriage issues off & on and being the mom of four boys.. two with special needs, I’ve had many failures but in it all God has shown me many facets of his grace and love. Hopefully, I am also growing more like Him. I have recently started working through the book on my own, but would love to do it in a group with these resources. 🙂
Good stuff! A reminder that “all things work together to those who love The Lord and are called according to His promise”. Troubles will happen, hang on tight to The Lord and you will come out on the other side.
Thank you Lysa for this visual of such good counsel.
I tend to forget in times of disparity, when I cannot breathe or think or move forward in my life, that God is there with me and taking me through the crushing to change me into the version of myself that he is calling me to be.
I resonate so much with this right now as my company has just let go over 700 employees and my job is changing. Not knowing what I am going to do or being invited to do what I truly want to do is terrifying. But I know the Lord’s bigger than all of it…. and I will be ok.
Great lesson. Sometimes we have to be in a uncomfortable situation for the good to push through. Like a Olive in the press. I feel like I am being processed and starting to get crushed. My husband of 16 years just said he wants a divorce cause I’m not enough to make him happy anymore. My teenage is getting better but still stressful at times. And work and kids and no friends to support me here, feels like to much sometimes. I need to get this study even if I don’t win it. I think at this point to it is essential.
It is a time such as this that I have been prepped for. I say this because the description of the olive’s processes speaks to me about my issue with self confidence. The Lord is working out a lot in my heart. Yes at times I am resisting but more today than in the past few months I am seeing how he wants to heal. Deep healing. Healing that will help my marriage be more rich. And healing that will bring me to a place where I fully (maybe I will still struggle at times) believe his love and that in him I am beautifully made.
Thinking about the olive’s process makes me think maybe that is my process. Long and extensive but worth the aging.
Also our small group is prepping to start our studies for the year and we would as women who desire to grow, benefit from your study.
We are going to meet seperate from our husbands And this would be a perfect study for us.
Feeling crushed. Actually just bought the book because I walked by it and kept standing out to me. I feel God is calling to look deeper and feel his love. Rejection has always been an issue that I don’t deal well with.
Crushing is a blessing! It draws us to Him, it has a purpose. I love this analogy of the olive.
This is a good reminder of what God provides to transform me. Winds come from the east and west, and I need to recognize, both are necessary in my life to produce fruit. Also that difficult times are times to preserve.. or obtain the best of my self for His glory.
Feeling much like Sarah. Tired of waiting, crushed for a long time on many fronts. Would love this.
Thank you for knowing, for understanding, for encouraging. Thank you especially for always pointing us to His Truth which dissipates every fear in our circumstances. So needed, thank you for your vulnerability and honesty!
I can relate, my heart has been crushed…I have come out on the other side stronger. Reading this lesson hit home, also reassured my soul.
I have been struggling with my marriage. It has been falling apart and I feel Satan just atracking me from all ends. We live in different states and I have our 4 kids. I feel abandoned by who was my church family and just trying to make it day by day.
Thank you so much, Lysa. I am going through a crushing time right now. I have printed out this article to remind me of God’s provisions during this time.
I really needed this today. I have been crushed and damaged all my life because of my dad leaving me and going to prison and I have felt like he doesn’t love me. I also just have been dealing with a foot injury the past 2 years and had surgery this past week and will have a long recovery of 3 months and then I have to do my other foot. My mom and step marriage isn’t so good. There is a lot of brokenness in my family. I need some encouragement to lift my spirits. Sometimes I feel alone and like I should give up. So what you said really spoke to me . I would love to read this book and the study would help me feel that love again.
We all having crushing times, moments, and maybe a long season of it. I’m experiencing a long season of crushing. He is removing the dross until He can seen His reflection in me. I started by skimming the article then was intrigued by the explanation of the olive tree, so I had to find out more. I’m glad I slowed down to absorb these words and concepts. I need both the east winds and west winds to be fruitful! This blessed my heart! Thank you Lysa for the encouragement!
You are so inspirational and such a positive role model especially for women! I recently went through a divorce after battling a long term chronic illness, ulcerative colitis. I had my colon removed along with other related surgeries and that’s how I found you when reading other stories about GI surgeries. I didn’t have a strong support system and struggled alone for a long time. I’m feeling well and have faith things are going to get better. Thanks for your encouragement! I would like very much to read your new material!! ?
Sometimes I can read something and think… wow.. this person was speaking directly to me. They seem to understand everything I am facing and currently going through.
I never could have thought I would ever be compared to an Olive, but I certainly feel like one after reading this.
Two years ago I lost my 36yr old fiancé to heart disease. Since then it has been one trying thing after another, including losing my job, issues with my children.. losing friends because they decided they no longer wanted me in my life.. I could keep going..
but… in the midst of all of the bad.. God has made HUGE changes in my life spiritually speaking.
I would love nothing more to read further on this subject.
Thank you for allowing God to use you to speak to women like me. I am so grateful I came across your ministry page.
A beautiful reminder for the hard times that God will not allow those things to destroy us, but will use them for our good.
Knowing Jesus’ heart ached reminds me of why He is the one I need to turn to when my heart aches. Your writing style and experiences are very relatable to me and so many women! Thank you for sharing your gift with the world ❤️️
I definitely have been feeling like I’m being crushed. This is an interesting concept, and I’m hoping that I will find hope in this and your Finding I Am bible study.
I feel as if Im in a crushing season right now. But honestly the words in your book and FB posts have kept my craziness at bay. I know has a plan for this trying time….its just keeping my heart focused on God can be tough somrtimes. You’re a big help to nudge me back to Him. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing your story and showing Gods love and grace thru all of it.
I would like to have a more positive outlook on life and a different perspective on things only the Holy Spirit can facilitate.
I just started reading this book yesterday and I can’t put it down! It is wrecking me in the best possible way! I feel like somehow it was written just for me because it addresses struggles I’ve tried to suppress for so long and issues I tried to forget. I am so thankful for Lysa’s God given wisdom!
I just went through this study with our mom’s group. It is phenomenal and life changing. If I should be blessed to win, I would give it to my sisters who live together. They really need to hear this message. Lysa, Thanks for pouring yourself out for women worldwide to know truth.
If there is one thing in life that I’ve struggled the most with…it would be rejection. Words replay in my head. Moments replay in my head. I withhold my true self just to be accepted. I really need the Lords healing in my life. This article has been an encouragement to me. The Lord is with me. He is walking with me. And nobody understands better than our Lord about rejection.
This spoke to my heart !!
I’m dealing with a situation now and I have so much unforgiveness ….
I’m so ready for God to help me to let go and let God..
I know he can do a work in me and help to live to my full potential and take me to heights that I’ve never been..
I’m ready for God to fully lead in my life..
I would love to have this study
God bless
This helped me to remember to not lose hope. Even though I feel like I’m stuck or not able to see through the struggles, God is doing his work. Squishing out all the bad to reveal His good in me for others that might use my story.
I had not heard all of these things about the olive/olive tree. Wonderful teaching to meditate on and see where God is currently applying it to my heart and life!
The pressing of the Olives that produces the oil remind me of the character that is developed and the person that is developed as we get pressed. I also think of the oil that is released and it reminds me of Isaiah 43:18 “forget the former things do not dwell on the past see I am doing a new thing!” The oil is a new thing and it cannot go back to being an olive it goes on to something new but it had to be pressed to move forward. Lysa, I cant tell you how beautiful this book has been for my book club of 3. The intimate discussions are those that have brought 3 strangers together to become sisters. This book has already been passed on to a single mom doing it with her single mom group. At the same time it has been passed along to 2 mom’s doing it with their high school daughters. Thank you for keeping it real and bring so transparent. Uninvited is truly a gift of invitation for all of us to Live Loved and to know we are all invited
I have been crushed for over two years now can’t seem to have the drive to do anything. I am a pastors wife and we moved to our new church 5 years ago in 2012. I thought everything was going to be great but six months after we were here I found out that I had breast cancer. Went for reconstructive surgery and had 8 other surgeries in less than two years. I have prayed and believe that I would start feeling better but that’s not happening. I know God is with me but I feel alone. I still have health problems from all the surgeryies. I’m ready for something to change.
Thank you, Lysa, for this inspiring teaching on a subject so many people are going through. I have been good through a crushing season in my life, and have learned so much, especially that it’s a necessary process God uses to produce and increase the anointing in our life. This is an on time word to so many women! I would love to share this study with so many other ladies. Thank for getting to the heart of the matter.
This teaching has taught me to keep pushing through these crushed times
I’ve gone through seemingly a life time of being pressed and going through this processing time. I know God has a purpose in it all but sometimes it’s hard to trust the process is worth the end result. But I know He is with me through it all.
This has helped me to just let go and not worry about other people’s approval or harbor hurt feelings towards others. It has helped me to let go of all the emotional baggage and focus on my relationships with my family and Him. It is a slow process that has not been easy. It is okay to take 2 steps forward and then 4 back but in the end I have moved forward. Embracing the process. Thanks for sharing. It is nice to see that I am not alone and that these feelings are normal.
Thank you Lysa,
I facilitate a ladies bible study (I don’t like to say “lead” unless I say “I’m the lead follower” I have so much to learn)
I’d love to use this material for our next study) Right now in my life – the east wind has me ready to give it all up, anxiety and depression threaten to overwhelm me. Thank you for your encouraging words.
Insecurities about my self has been an on going battle all my life since being a young teenager now in my early 50’s, The Lord is getting a ahold of my heart about things! This book has been such a treasured help for me. I’m right now in the process of reading it and can’t put it down. What a joy and blessing it would be to do be able to dig deeper into this study. I would love so much to have the other recourses to do just that. Thank you Lysa for this study! I am always so blessed by your books/bible studies! God bless!!
Oh, how this touched my heart. Life seems to be crushing me and I need a ray of hope & light. Thank you for sharing your message.
“We are pressed but not crushed”.
Such a remarkable reminder of the olive tree and its fruit. The purpose and process, from bitterness to cured. Thank you Lysa , I needed this to encourage me this morning.
I feel like I’m being crushed in my marriage. My husband has health issues that make it hard for him to keep a job and makes him very irritable. It’s so hard for me because I tend to feel like it’s never gonna end…even though I try my best. Today’s post helped me see that God will also use this for my good even though the actual situation doesn’t feel good…and I will glorify Him for it.
Lysa, thank you for being so inspirational. You really have a way with Gods words to touch our hearts. I’m going through severe anxiety and depression and getting through it by pouring into Gods word, seeking Christian counseling and medication. Reading your posts reminds me every day that even when I don’t feel him, he is here with me. Instead of feeling rejected by him, I know he is with me through the storm. I will be stronger because of this. Thank you! ?
Oh how I always do my very best to avoid the pressing and crushing…but as again I walk through a time where this is truly necessary for God to refine me into more of His likeness, you have reminded me that we are not without Hope.
And His name is Jesus.
Learning in new ways through health challenges, family brokenness, and recovery and healing from past bondage and sin, that His grace really is sufficient – even when my mind and heart tell me I’m so undeserving.
Lysa, this is awesome! I have lived most of my life with these feelings of rejection. I am just now beginning to understand, just a tiny bit, God’s love. I want to share this study with other women. There are so many that feel this way. I hope to bring this study to our church soon. Keep them coming! Love your posts! You are such an inspiration!
Beautifully said , The crushing times is well explained by experience. By the Grace of God after he changed me and i became a born again i didn’t had that experience until Last April,2016. It just brought me to a whole new level of myself. It hit me so hard when i was not expecting with such a blow it hurt me so much emotionally. The friends whom you thought were the God given Family show their true self to you.It was one of the time i never thought would come and pray Jesus that he would please not let me go through that heart brokenness again.I went in to bitterness , like you said Forgot the reason of this experience. Im still in the process of being fully transformed,renewed and chisled and pruned making me in to everything Jesus wanted me to be.Im having hard time to Forgive them,but i can do it with Jesus’ help and im choosing to forgive and Forget that memory and start loving everyone with the same Love Jesus loves us. Its hard . I was Pressed, but not Crushed. Please pray for me that God heals that broken part of my heart and make it as if nothing happened and i want to forget that memory in Jesus name and start loving and seeing people through the eyes of Jesus. Thank you for letting me Vent here. I bless you and all the people who are sharing their experiences here. I pray that Jesus would touch each and every one of us with his loving kindness and refresh our hearts and souls in Jesus name.
This was a timely message for me today. Thank you for blessing others with what God has shown you!
This is so true. Without the hardship and struggles, we truly don’t appreciate all the good in our life. We need to be thankful all of lifes struggle because without them we wouldn’t grow into the person we are today. We are all one of God’s masterpieces.
My husband recently became senior chaplain for a chapel service on an Army post. We love the members of the congregation and are so happy to be serving with them.
One family was not so happy. We found they had been going behind us, attempting to plant seeds of discontent. This same family has always been very loving to our family, so to hear what they had done was very painful. I eat very angry, in my hurt.
“When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.”
I need to step away from my pride and reach out in love. It is clear the wife in particular has been hurt before and is likely action game out of that place. I have the chance now to show love and grace or to show hurt and bitterness. I will choose love and grace.
There is purpose in the pain. Nothing is waisted in God’s hand!
As a child of God, I know the peace that comes because I identify with Jesus. I don’t need to figure out who I am. I am His. I exist to glorify Him. I fail. HE forgives. HIS mercies are new each day. Joy comes with daily struggles. Yet I wrestle with the rhetoric of others as I do not want to judge. How do I face the sword of conflict. He came to bring a sword! Conflicts rise up daily between believers! We follow Him but disagree. How can this be? We both identify with Jesus but think we offend each other. It is 2017 and a time much like the time of the Romans. Christians were not invited guests in the early days of Christianity. Followers are not invited guests in specific countries today. In the USA, we should be! How can so not invite non-believers into my circle? How can I ignore a store employee who singles out a woman dressed in a burka and accuses her falsely? Each situation presses on me. Each circumstance I can either ignore or use to press on. I have been to the Garden. I have seen the ancient oil press. The olives were pressed three times. How many times do I need to be pressed before so surrender to His will for me? If I am “me” focused”, then repeatedly. If I admit to my weakness and humbly accept the pain as needed pain (refiner’s fire), then I will grow in my endless sanctification and final purification. The olive does not asked to be pressed. Jesus did not ask to be pressed. HIS pressing He endured for you and me. Simon told Mary there will be a sword through her soul. Mary heard. I want to hear. And not just for me. I need to hear as too many friends face struggles. Do I mention the death of too many spouses the last 14 months? How can I help them as they are pressed? Do I mention children who are lost, forgotten, stolen? With the endless troubles and distresses in my little world, I welcome any comforting guide. Right now I am reading Hidden Christmas by Tim Keller. I have led small women groups at my home. Perhaps if it is God’s will for me to gather a group together to work through your resources, then we will. The group that met last summer was multi-generational. We study His Word and grow in knowledge and in our walk with Jesus. By prayer and His grace, may HE direct my steps and yours.
(I did not reread what flowed above. I am an avid editor of what I write. This time I will let it be.)
I have read this book twice. It spoke to my heart in many ways first as I was going through a divorce with my husband of 24 years and second when my dear grandma went to be with the Lord. Love, love, love this book!! Would love to offer this as a women’s bible study at my church!!
I have been in a rejection situation for a couple years. In September I was crushed. I did not understand why. I searched over and over for this answer but there was none. It seems in your teaching that God uses this time to shape us. I look forward to learning more…
This message was so helpful to me today. It’s such a rough season with a husband that’s filed for divorce due to his lack of “feelings”, a parent with stage 4 cancer and dementia, a career at a standstill and small children that need me to be strong. I know Christ is with me as I’m pressed to my betterment, but it is hard.
I used to let things crush me. Then I read uninvited and it totally changed the way I think about everything!!! I got my life back on the right track with God and started seeking Him First and leaving it all at his feet. My marriage has improved, life has gotten so peaceful. Thank you for your gift of writing this book.It changed my life!
I am going through a divorce and the past few years have been tough emotionally. Thank you for writing an amazing book
The process is so tough it His end result is always worth it!
Thank you for this. I feel as though I’ve been crushed as we’ve lost our home, belongings, savings and my family. I’ve contemplated killing myself and have never thought until this today, that God may be pressing me to get to the best part of me.
WOW! ? Thank you for sharing this truth! My heart needed to hear it… the crushing times are necessary times. This book has been on my to read list for awhile and I can only imagine how much more fruitful of a study it would be with the dvd and study pack! ?
I am most definitely in the process of being rid of my bitterness. Recently divorced, adultery was the death of my marriage. I have had so much bitterness running through my veins for the past year and a half. Bitterness towards my ex, bitterness towards the women that knowly took interest in a married man. I don’t want this feeling, I hate feeling this way. This message spoke right to my aching heart. Thank you so very you much for helping me see that the process of preservation will ultimately be a blessing in disguise.
In my season of pain and crushing rejection and abandonment. I want to be set free and need the LORD help. Today’s devotion was filled with hope in my trial.
Desiring to learn what Gods word teaches me.
Since July, I have really struggled with my daughter having had a seizure. In august my 15 yr old was diagnosed with epilepsy. My heart was crushed. She is literally teaching me how to handle living with her diagnosis. I may be poor by society’s standards but God has richly blessed me beyond measure.
Today has been an especially crushing day. I just felt like leaving work, going home, getting under the covers, and crying. Several negative things have happened that makes me want to have a pitty party. But I have to put on a brave face. I think this study would be good for me. I have felt uninvited most of my life.
Its hard to go thru the trying times. I have to remind myself daily to give it to God and understand that I can’t control everything that comes my way. Giving my life to God gives me hope.
This reminds me that Jesus went through it first, before me and for me! HE will get me through the crushing.
Oh, does this ever speak to my past two years (exactly today). But, hopefully it’s coming to an end in two weeks! I have definitely grown, and felt a peace only God can provide.
Reading and studying I Am has kept me anchored the past couple of weeks as our situation is finally, FINALLY coming to an end (hopefully).
This book is on my list!
I feel the crushing pressure of life upon me so glad to know that just as the olive must go through this process to be useful in many ways and to produce not just food but a oil that can bring healing that the process can produce fruit in my life as well.
I would love to learn more through your book and study guide. I need to remind myself that it is all in God’s hands especially in times when life gets overwhelming. It would be a true blessing to receive a copy.
As I read these words, my thoughts go back to the year 2015. The hardest year of my life. I stumbled along in the wilderness wondering where the God I loved so much was. I just couldn’t understand why my spirit had gotten so crushed. I lost a lot that year…
Our family had an organic poultry farm. It took a lot of family members to run it. Ten family members lived there, happily. Then my husband had a heart attack and he became another person. He left our farm for someone else. When he did, my world changed. His children and parents who lived there moved to another state. My son could not run the farm on his own, so he and his wife and child went back to where he grew up. The granddaughter I had custody of went back to be with her mother……
I couldn’t run the farm by myself so I had to close it down and move back to my hometown. I was bitter, I was crushed and I was angry and I was trying to figure out where God was.
When I was holding on to my faith by a thread, He was holding me in His arms. But I didn’t see that for a long time. I am finally beginning the journey of healing but I still feel lost at times. I still feel the sting at times. But now after reading your words I have a better understanding of how God has been working in my life through all of it. Your books have been a blessing Lysa. I am looking forward to this one. God bless you for the hope and inspiration you have given to so many women.
Thank you Lysa for this today; i feel as if i am being crushed now and have been for several months; job – family struggles – finances – my uncle diagnosed with cancer yesterday…. But i like the way you told the story of the crushing of the olives was not the end – it was thru the crushing that it was preserved and made into something edible. I feel like an olive sometimes; but know that thru the most difficult seasons in my life; God has a plan and he will see me thru if i just continue to trust him with all my heart.
I am new in Christ. I was baptised last year on Mothers Day. I am recently married as of 12/2. I am dealing with anxiety and panik attacks and i always feel uninvited. I hope that this series will better equipped me with the tools I need to overcome my fears and grow stronger in my walk with Christ
I am newly baptised, newly married, dealing with severe anxiety and feel i would benefit from this series
Thank you so much for this teaching. I don’t even know how I happened upon it….wait….yes I do know…it was God’s leading!! Thank you for allowing God to speak through you about such important issues!!
Thank you for your beautiful message. This season of trial and tribulation has lasted longer than I ever imagined. Some of the times have truly been harder than others. However, battling this long has left me feeling “crushed” recently with no way out. This message reinvigorated my spirits and is a true reminder of our amazing Father in heaven and the sacrifices paid on our behalf.
Im so tired of being crushed. It’s almost never ending. Just when I think it’s over, nope something else happens. I know in my heart that God is working but I don’t know how much longer I can take it.
I have been on a my personal journey of loving someone who is chronically ill and fighting “fear”. I found that through these years of fighting to overcome and believe for healing we experienced criticism, abandonment, and it led us to isolate. Recently in my prayer, I really embraced that faith for others begins when we overcome fear, first. The Gethsemane story speaks to me because sometimes we have to push and press in and pray…all alone for what we know we are battling. Our friends may not stand in the gap, but Jesus already knows what that is like and he is able to carry me through that so that we like him can carry others through our faithfulness in God. This teaching of being pressed has not been as real for me as it became when it was just me praying…no one in agreement – except Jesus. He overcame fear, and I am trying to learn how to do the same. As I travail in labor of sadness, he gives me a reprieve and speaks through his words to push and have faith for what comes after the “pressing”. I am really enjoying Finding I Am with our bible study, and would love to be a blessing and share Uninvited. Thank you for continuing to share these teachings!
Wow! what a fitting and perfect analogy for crushing times. Just lost my job today after many years of service. It has been a trying time of feeling hurt and pain. I am also inspired and encouraged to know that this is the part of my life where the refining and processing is taking place and I can just wait patiently for that beautiful end result of being poured out from a broken vessel and spilled out for Him.
Thank you Lysa for your anointed words of truth and the Holy Spirit guiding you all the way.
Hi, I just “found” this post on Facebook today. I love how God works in our lives. This helped me with refocusing my perspective, to turn toward Him. Thanks Lysa!
I’ve felt uninvited And rejected since I could remember. I’m a product of a blended family which lead me to unhealthy thought patterns. This books life giving encouragement and discecting of scripture changed me from the inside out. I feel free, loved and accepted by the One who conquered all. So grateful for this book and can’t imagine where I’d be without it.
Thank you for this reminder today Lysa. My beautiful mother lost her battle to cancer just after Christmas and some days I feel so crushed I can hardly breathe. But I’m clinging to Jesus and believing this time will refine me.
This is awesome! Thank you for this wisdom! I am coming through one of the hardest places I have ever been in this respect and what an eye opener…wow. I could always say it must be for my good and for
His glory in all that I have come through but this one took the wind out of me. I am so thankful to see this. It has helped me to see these are as I have said but you sharing. This has brought understanding!… I will be sharing this with others….thank you so much Lysa, you are truly a blessing. ♥
In time of rejection,pain and hurt is when drawing closer to God helps me get through it. I could never make it all alone.
I have been reading this study and truly enjoying it…I am beginning a Bible study group tomorrow night with a group of women and have even encouraged them to do it with their daughters 16+…and this will be our study…I am so excited to share this study with them
Your post helped me today because I too forget… & it was no nice to be reminded by someone who genuinely cares & has felt the same forgetfulness.
I really needed this today… Thank you!
The crushing. Hurts the most but so beneficial for our sanctification.
When the sorrowful winds of the east blow, I forget they are necessary.
When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.
And when I’m being crushed, I forget it’s for the sake of my preservation.
I am definitely in a season of being pressed and crushed. God has given me the strength to keep pushing through, but it is not easy. I do believe He is using this time of hardship with my son to draw me closer to Him, to depend on Him and Him alone. For that I am grateful. I will praise Him in the storm. I know He has a purpose for me and for my son.
Have always struggled with feeling “uninvited” and rejected. I want to live in God’s truth and not Satan’s lies.
I could definitely instantly think of times in my life when I felt that crushing weight, as I read this.
Today, because of a visit with a new friend of mine who is in an almost unimaginably difficult situation with no seemingly no way out, I am thinking of those times when we struggle to be related to and struggle to relate to each other. I wish I could somehow convey to her this message of the olive tree in a way that doesn’t seem like I think that I can imagine what she’s going through, or that I believe this is supposed to just fix everything eventually the way WE imagine something to be fixed. (I think this is where she is caught right now) I can only pray God would fill her heart with the ASSURANCE of this absolute reality–that God is in and around all these difficult, difficult things. Thanks for sharing from your heart. Encouraged hearts make for encouraging conversations with friends which in turn makes more encouraged hearts 🙂
Although I have much joy and good in my life, in the world of work I am definitely being crushed. I absolutely love what I do(teach), but my heart hurts right now. I definitely needed to read this today.
Encouraging reminder that Jesus is right there with us through it all!
This book is so amazing and helped me so much in realizing that as long as I know in my heart that God loves me…that’s all I need! I have lived a life of rejection and have always felt as if no one has ever loved me and this book helped open my eyes to stop searching for love in others and be content with really knowing that God’s love is enough! I would love to have this pack to read and study deeper through this book with the study guide and DVD! Thank you so much for the blessing of your ministry Lisa! Praying for you everyday!
Definitely being crushed right now too. But I have learned through hardships before that because of them I am being conformed to be like Christ Jesus. These times are necessary for growth. I had also learned the toughest lesson through hardships; trusting the Lord. So, anyone that is going through a tough time, I say-embrace it and learn from it; seek the Lord and oh my, He will reveal Himself to you in such a beautiful way, you’ll be blown away!!!
A Eye opener
Would love to have this study to share at my church
This spoke to me in a variety of ways. Im still in the messy phase of processing but the following snippets are all jumbled around in there. 🙂 “What consumes my thinking will be making or breaking my identity.” #motto. Keeping this idea at the forfront of my thoughts opens the pathway for the rest! Showing grief and sorrow is strength and vulnerability when we are seeking clarity in complex situations. The low points help you view your life and what your value. #dontwasteyourvalley
I can’t speak enough about how
“These words that move me are treasures.”
Lysa,
Thank you for your words. I am experiencing a “crushing” in my life that has been going on for years now, but has become really tough the last three. My relationship with my dad has slowly been deteriorating. My parents divorced more than 35 years ago (when i was four). I have always been a daddy’s girl, and he and I used to be close. But it all kind of started to fall apart when my first husband and I divorced nearly 14 years ago. Since then, every decision i make in life just doesn’t seem to be good enough or is another disappointment to him. This whole thing has literally tore me up. However, through this process, I have had to learn that I have a Heavenly Father who loves me, and no matter what i do, will always love me. I may falter at times, but I have learned that He will not turn His back on me. I have found comfort and strength in knowing that.
Thank you Lysa!
I’ve struggled with severe anxiety & depression more than half of my life. Then 2 years ago, I very unexpectedly became a young widowed mom. Trying to raise my kids, deal with the grief and overwhelming loneliness, keep us financially stable, and fighting Satan’s vicious attacks on my peace and self-worth is a constant battle. This article was tremendously helpful. It’s a great reminder that just because my circumstances seem to be crushing me, God is actually strengthening me so He can use using me to glorify His name!
This makes me hopeful and grateful. I love that there is scripture for every moment of your life. Crushed like an olive or pounded like wheat, God is there to make us better. Reshape us and mold us to honor him. Thank you for sharing your stories with us.
Thank you for sharing this!!! I must be an olive then have had both east and west winds. Would love to use this to go through with my group of baseball moms.
My life was turned upside down about 6 months ago with my mom’s sudden passing. I thought I was strong, I thought I was prepared, but my heart was shattered more than I could have ever imagined. I felt scared, betrayed and alone. But out of this darkness, my faith is being restored, my faith stronger and God has showed me so many things I needed through scripture, preaching and fellow believers. Out of the ashes, there will be beauty again in my life! This study affirms what I have been shown…that healing will happen, that joy is there, that life will be beautiful and I am reminded that I get eternity with my mom and won’t have to say goodbye ever again!
I loved this! I needed to hear it and I thank you for preparing my heart for the impending pressing and processing I know is around the corner. The doctor calling to discuss the results in person struck a chord with me as I await test results and am searching for answers to my ailments. I would love to win this!
I recently had a very frustrating work incident occur that left me feeling hopeless. It threw me in a downward spiral all through the month of dec/Jan. I still praying daily God will
Open a new career path for me to follow so I can feel relieved of the pressure. They only thing that has help me through this difficult time are two things. One, the fact that I know God knows my heart and the truth of the situation and second, this book. I have loved reading every second of this book and would love to dig deeper, “take me deeper than my feet could ever wonder”.
Thank you so much ..I cannot tell you how timely this Word from God is …we are feeling totally crushed at the moment BUT our wonderful God is with us upholding us in Hos righteous right hand ….to Him be all the glory.
It has helped me very much. I have struggled for sometime with that uninvited feeling. Not feeling like I am enough. I would be able to share this with others. I feeling it will be a great tool for others who may feel the same.
I love the analogy with the olive tree. I feel so many times that my suffering must mean I’m doing something wrong. This is a reminder that we endure hardships and our hardships and suffering have a purpose.
“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” (Mark 14:34, NIV).
I am here. Overwhelmed.
Crushing is not the olives end. This will stay with me.
I have read this book and have felt like it was all me. I suffered with some of the same discouragements and disappointments. I am now sharing this book with my daughter. How awesome it would be to be able to share with the young women I am surrounded with. I felt like you wrote this book for me. Thank you so much for being a blessing
I was crushed dealing with my bipolar son but after 8 years and finally letting go completely and handing it over to God I felt relief. Now when I go through my difficulties I look back to that olive tree and smile knowing that God has it all under control.
God brings us through these times & it is he we must rely on. Persecution drives us to our knees & I then realize it has to be more of you Lord & less of me.
Lisa, love to read & go though this study. This past year been very hard faith shaking roller coaster. Think this study would help me and my family out a ton.
It would be a huge blessing to win this right now!!! I wait on Lisa’s posts everyday and they are always spot on! She has helped me in the toughest season in my 50 years of being here. Thank you!
Simply, this teaching reminded me to draw nearer to Jesus. In a season where there’s many more questions about my life in my head than answers, this reminds me that the only answer I need is knowing beyond knowledge that God is good and won’t let me be abandoned, crushed, or destroyed. I’ve struggled with identity for about as long as I can remember and I believe the importance of knowing who we are in Jesus is a message God has given me to impart with my life…And I’m still walking through it myself. 🙂
Reading this reminds me that I am not alone with my struggles. That no matter how crushed, bruised, bent, and scarred I am I will never be broken! God is faithful! I will hold on to His promises. He is sovereign!
I love the analogy of the olive tree to what we go through. This helps me to view hardships in a different light. Praise God for his preservation of my soul.
Thank you so much for being real enough to share what you’ve been through. It so often relates to where I’ve been. yes I’ve been crushed but have made it through !! Praise God!!\
I have been in the Garden of Gethsemane and seen the amazing olive trees. Three years ago, I was crushed in a way that I never dreamed would happen. I am in a period of waiting and healing and hanging on to the Lord’s hand, even if I am sometimes shaking my other fist at him. I trust this experience is for my growth and for my continuing transformation into the person that God wants me to be.
I’ve felt like there have been a few times in my life where I’ve felt ‘crushed’ 7 years ago, we lost our first daughter at almost 38 weeks of pregnancy. 2 years ago, both my parents died within months of each other.
Reading this reiterated to me that there is a purpose in my pain.
Wow. This is deep. I’m currently training to be a support worker for people with complex behaviour and intellectual disabilities at a respite care centre. The topic we were talking about today was stress.
It seems to me that the most potent way of managing stress is how you perceive the stressor.
I can see how having this perspective on ‘crushin times’ can help some of the people I will be working with, but also myself, when I am going through crushing times. And to be honest, aren’t we all?
Also, I feel like olive oil is a symbol of victory. It’s like, that’s the final product after the crushing!
This post is honestly an amazing & valuableinsight. Thank you for sharing.
I cannot even begin to say how this blessed me. A little over a year ago, my husband lost his job due to finances no longer being available. We have been serving in full-time ministry since he graduated from Bible college in 2009. He was laid off and we had a month to find a new position or move in with family. God provided with two weeks to spare. We packed up our lives and moved cross country to serve in full-time ministry again. We were thrilled. Then, our kids threw up our entire first week in our new apartment. My daughters and I missed the first MONTH of church because of various illnesses that were unrelenting. I found out that my youngest was not hearing and needed surgery. My middle daughter had to have a mole removed that ended up being precancerous. Our (praise God empty) van was hit by a drunk driver and we took on a car payment that we were NOT expecting to have. My mom was in the hospital for a week due to debilitating pain (while I am a 10 hour drive away). My dad is facing a second open-heart surgery and I found out yesterday that my uncle has been diagnosed with prostate cancer (a cancer my dad just beat 18 months ago). It has been one exhausting and overwhelming thing after another.
I keep asking God “WHY?! I know that we were obedient when we moved here. We have given up our lives to serve You full time and THIS is what happens?” I KNOW that God is stretching and growing me, but man is it painful and I am getting weary. I needed this uplifting reminder (especially as I am missing church tonight due to another child being sick).
Lysa, your ministry and books have blessed me in ways that I could never fully express. Seeing the love between you and your children gives me hope while we are trudging through these hard young years. Your encouragement always comes at just the right time.
The end result of the entire process is the precious and most valuable OIL. God used oil in so many ways and even now we have so many medicinal “miracles’ that come from all kinds of oils (teatree oil and oil of oregano have helped us tremendously, to name a few.) Yes, a fantastic reminder that the crushing is indeed for something wonderful in the end!
I read this book and it was by far one of my favorite of all times. I I am feeling called to start a small group Bible study and having this set would really help me to take that leap.
i myself feel as if im going through a crushing season and i have some bitterness at timea i just want feel whole again. this made me realize its a process i need to go through to be a better person to myself and those around me and for those who have hurt me.
I get the ‘a-ha’ moment. I felt that as I was reading this. Oh, so that’s what YOU are doing, Lord. So thankful HE is with us in the process.
Process away my sweet and powerful God. Truly I do not understand what I need.
My despair lately has been a big part of my life. This study helped me realize God is always there no matter what my feelings are. I would love to have this study.
WOW! Reading this today made me see things differently. I am recently divorced with a six year old little boy. We live day to day. I can relate to everything you mentioned. This book was suggested for me to read by a dear friend. I plan on purchasing it very soon.
and it was an olive branch the dove brought to Noah….Thank you Lysa for this teaching. It speaks to my heart. God is Good even when we don’t understand why we are going through a difficult situation.
I too have been through the crushing….more than once, and most recently have questioned God over and over about what I’ve been doing wrong. It’s helpful to be reminded, that the answer may be “nothing”, it’s simply the process of being processed and preserved. Thank you!
It’s definitely difficult to go through the hard times, & remember that God had a perfect plan for it all, & is always here with is. He will never leave us, or forsake us. He is a loving God, & wants the best for us. I have to stop, & listen to what God is trying to teach me through it all. I think this would be a great study!
Well when you put it like that! I look forward to the day I get to enjoy my hypothetical oil that is being crushed out of me know. I cant even imagine where i would be right now if it weren’t for my amazing support system of family and friends who have been in similar crushing scenarios. They remind me that though it hurts now, it will pass and you will be stronger for it.
Letting go and trusting
This study is going to be great. We must go through the good and the bad times so that we can bear fruit(grow). The bad times are what strengthens us and helps us grow. Although it may feellike the end,it’s really part of preservation and transformation.
This teaching helped remind me that we all go through things but how God uses those tear stained, heart broken moments for His glory.
I actually started reading this book last week. I had been feeling the rejection of my husband for almost a month, and I decided to pick up your book to help me process and gain some perspective. Friday, he told me he was filing for divorce. Sunday, he moved out and emailed me the separation agreement. Had I not been reading this book, I might not have been able to draw closer to God and His love through the last few days. I would love to go through the book again now with the study guides, as I anticipate to read it several times until I fully believe I’m capable and confident in living loved. Even if I don’t win, thank you. God has used His truth through your words more than I can express. I needed every page, for so many more reasons than just this divorce.
My husband and I have been in the ministry for nearly 17 yrs. We are heartbroken again and again when members left the church without a word. The leaders then put the blame on him. He has decided to leave the ministry for good. Very crushed by the situation. Thank you for the message. I was encouraged by it. I will share the article with him.
This message really spoke to me. I have been struggling for so long… Being pressed financially, physically, emotionally, in relationships, (including my marriage and with all of my seven children) and spiritually… Although I’m 31 yrs old, I am a beginner in my relationship with the Lord… My family and I were struggling so hard last Fall. I called out and reached out to several different people, including family members and friends… But no one could seem to help or understand what we were going through… I finally turned to a local church. The members of this church were so kind, loving, and compassionate. I told them about our problem and I never once felt judged. I was completely at ease talking to them and expressing my family. I have never felt that at ease with myself before, not even with family… They helped my family out with our problem, (it was financially) and then they went beyond that! I asked them why they were so understanding and the began to tell me about living a life with Jesus! I was completely taken in by their stories and their actions! I wanted more… I wanted to know him and live my life they way they did… So I began studying the bible, watching TBN and listening to Christian music. I was looking for devotions to study and that’s when I found you and Proverbs 31! I instantly fell in love with your writing! I love that you are so honest! I love that you always seem to know exactly what I is I need to hear. And I love that you wrote it in such a way that even I, a beginner, can understand and relate to! I ordered your “Say Yes To God” journal and devotional booklet and it completely changed my prayer life! I wanted to order your uninvited book but I haven’t been able to find the extra cash… I would really love to win this set and see what kind of new ways your words and Jesus can speak to me! But even if I don’t, I will still choose to Yes to Him each and every day! I love the way I can sense and see myself changing as my relationship with him continues to grow each day. With each new day I learn and discover something more and it makes me fall deeper in love with Him! I couldn’t even imagine a life without Him now. Thank you Lysa for your inspiring and honest words. I pray that continues to use you and speak through you in such relatable ways. And continues to inspire others through you and ways. (By the way, I am now a proud member of that church and have been since October). Yay!
This book was such a help to me coming off of 9 month separation from my husband and having started this study shortly after he moved back home. Would love to have the study pack to share this with others.
I am in the processing part of my crussing time. This totally makes sence to me how we go through different stages of “crushing”. This artical spoke deeply to me. Thank you for your openess and writting this. 🙂
Maybe, I should buy an olive tree, so I can be reminded more often of God’s love and not the feelings that come with rejection. It is humbling to know how much God loves us and our focus should be on Him.
I would very much like to share this with a group of ladies in Bible Study, in fact this lady at church told me I should do a Bible Study and your book was one I thought of first. And yesterday I saw your book and recommended it to some ladies…I have not finish reading all of it, but if I get another copy I will give as a gift for whomever comes to the Bible study. I do not have the video, but I bet it is good. My husband has been to the Holy Land, but that was before we were married, so I missed out. Thank you for all you do for the Lord!
Yes i and people close to me can very much relate. Often it helps to know that others feel the same and have come through it. Ultimately God has everything in his hands. God please give me the faith to always know this truth.
I have gone through a season of rejection. It hurts so bad but it has also helped me to realize my identity was not all in what Christ says about me. I m working on it.
Gone through a crushing month of January. I had an unexpected and unexplainable illness with some of the worst pain I’ve had in my life. (And that is saying a lot because I’ve birthed four babies!) Dinalky found out I needed to have an emergency surgery to remove gallstones from the bile duct and then have my gallbladder removed. Recovery this past week has proven difficult as well– My entire family came down with a stomach bug and I’ve had to do more moving around than resting. I’ve most definitely relied heavily on Jesus and on community. I’m not usually one to ask for help, and I’ve been seeing more and more reasons for all this happening the way it has, especially the timing. God has also taken care of us despite the many hardships. It could’ve been worse.
This was a great reminder that there is always a purpose for the pain.
I too forget that the “crushing” is ridding me of bitterness. Thank you for reminding me that I should praise God in my time of despair instead of doubting.
This study will help me in so many different ways. Because no matter what I do it’s wrong or not good enough or compromise due to circumstances. Sometime I feel like I don’t fit in anywhere. This will help me.
Being able to have God’s message delivered to me in a way that I can connect to and understand. Lysa’s books and devotions have helped me grow in my faith and I have been able to forgive myself for my mistakes. I have been able to get out of myself and begin sharing my faith, God’s love and grace to people that I meet. I know through all of my trials that God is with me and is so much BIGGER than anything I will deal with. I offer my whole self to Him and ask that His will continues to be done through my life. With the help of Lysa’s books and devotions helping me grow more, I know I will be armed to stand against anything.
I recently purchased the book and look forward to reading it. We are in the waiting time while by sister awaits a liver/kidney transplant. I am trying to see God in all this struggle of hers. She is such a testimony. Apart from a miracle, she will be in heaven by winters’ end. Meanwhile my unsaved 21 year old openly shared questions this morning as once again I gave the gospel as God led the conversation. Though he does not believe in his own heart yet, he asked, “Why doesn’t everyone know this (the gospel)? ” I shared that it is our job to tell them. He is stuck on why God allows my sister and others to suffer and that God must be mean. Praying God gives me the words to respond. He is searching for God and I am searching for the words to share.
My husband left me this past November and it has been an extremely difficult time. I saw and talk with him today for the first time in a month and it was definitely a crushing time! So when I came across this, it really made me feel so much better and helped me understand that my Almighty God is working in my life and that everything will be okay- one way or another! I just Love how God works!
I participated in the OBS. It was amazing! I would really like to be able to experience this again and delve into it more deeply. Thank you !!!
What a great picture to help us understand why struggles, rejection, and disappointment comes our way. The Bible is very clear about believers bring refined into the image of Christ and although we know it, we don’t want to endure it. As the mother of two children with special needs children and the facilitator of a support group for mom’s like me, it is always my desire to help ladies find God’s grace in the midst of a long and very isolating walk. God’s ability to transform our bitterness is something I treasure and long to see in the lives of these precious ladies. God bless!
Beautiful – thank you!
A great reminder that everything we go through with the Lord has a greater purpose.
Such a great perspective! The crushing brings about what is needed most. Wonder what that is for me?
Thank you so much for this. This has really help me better understand 2Cor. 4:8. I admit I am the bitter part but I need to remember that there is always a something better after the hardships.
Oh being press to take away the bitterness…you hit the nail on the head. I hate rejection to the point most of the time avoid the situation. I never look at it as another way of God growing us. To be a Christian is to be Christ like after reading this it only seems right that rejection be apart of that. Thank you for sharing.
I have recently been going through a very hard time of transition in my life. I feel as though I have lost friendships because of a difficult decision we made for our family. In reality, this decision only really had an impact on our life, and somehow we ended up being collateral damage as well. This is helping me to work through the process of the pain. Thank you Lysa ❤
Great reminder of living through the past, which I shared little with my testimony the other day. We need to let down so to speak to be brought through. It has been a rough time for many years for me to continue to learn this lesson but God has always been there-in more than one way.
I loved this! Such powerful truths. They are filled with hope and really spoke to my soul. My favorite part was:
“When the sorrowful winds of the east blow, I forget they are necessary.
When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.
And when I’m being crushed, I forget it’s for the sake of my preservation.”
That is something I want to save and read everyday. There is so much beneath and beyond our circumstances.
I’don’t be so blessed to win this! Thank you!
Crushing times are a preservation time. Thank you for the beautiful comparison to the olive tree. So many words and images in God’s holy word to bring us much needed comfort.
Definitely in a trying time with husband and teens. This article spoke so well to me today. Exactly what I needed to read. Thank you for sharing it!
I love how God not only gives us His word for truth, but also His creation. He speaks through creation and His word. How many times I have been inspired and encouraged through the beauty and behavior of nature because I know the One who made it all! Loved all the truths you pulled out of the olive tree, Lysa.
Sometimes it’s hard to remember that sanctification is a process and not like an over night miracle cream. Asking the Lord to make me more self aware these last few months has left me vulnerable, hurt, completely broken and lonely at times. In these difficult times I must keep reminding myself that the Lord is and will continue to bring me through this nonsense. That He has my best interest at heart and that it’s in these muddy waters when we can’t see clearly and that we feel we can’t go on anymore that we grow and learn the most- that He is refining us and making us whole. Thank you Lord for these sweet reminders.
At Being crushed , i too forget that its for my perservation. Being reminded that i can gain so much more then what ive had in my prior season is such a joyous reminder. To seek God in that moment of pain is to know his everlasting faithfulness to me his daughter !
Today is the 20th anniversary of my father’s suicide. I just got off the phone with my mom, who is still grieving. Today that east wind is blowing full force. But I know tomorrow my mom will get up and carry on and that west wind will cool her face. She is the only caregiver for my 98 year old grandmother. All other family help has faded away over these past five years. My mom is homebound with my grandmother and cares for her alone with some help from hospice and my sister who comes over to let my mom go to the grocery store and pick up prescriptions or run other errands. It is hard living three hours away from my mom, but I try to visit at least once a month so my mom can have a day or two of relief. I know this study pack would be a gust of west wind for my mom. I would love for her to be able to read and study God’s word through your beautiful writing. Thank you!
Thank-you for this teaching. It’s a hard one to hear but it is good to be reminded of the role hard times play, even if their reason can be oh so hard to see when you are in the middle. Thank-you for these reminders that He had been there and He gets it.
My sister shared this with me and she knew it was something I needed to read. My marriage is currently headed for divorce, but reading your blog post has given me a glimpse of hope that this is in God’s plan and I have to trust him, even though I’m feeling beyond crushed right now. Thank you for sharing this message.
Your uninvited teachings have really given me strength at work. I have a boss who I do not get wling with. She is constantly coming fiwn hard on me ,can not do anything right for her. Your teaching reminded me in my crushing times I as m not alone even when I feel like it . I am so greatful that God used u to remind me of this.
This teaching, and your book which I recently read, remind me that I can take those hard moments and turn them into times to meditate on who I am in Christ. Thank you for sharing your heart in your book. I was able to apply the truths you shared shortly after I finished it when a hard situation came up.
Yes, Lord! When the stress of trying to be everything for everyone else around me feels too heavy of a burden to bear I am reminded that Jesus has already won and the victory is mine. He is only preparing me for what is to come.
WOW did this ever speak to my heart! It’s coming from the spot I’m standing in right now. Knowing God has a plan and purpose for the pain. But also, just wanting it to be over. However, I have a friend who’s feeling rejected, dejected, almost beyond belief at times. She has one of the strongest faiths I know. As much as I would LOVE to do this study, she truly needs it. Thank you so much for speaking so passionately. I listen to you on the radio and sometimes I feel like you’re speaking Just. To. Me. It really gives me a chance to reflect on where I am and more importantly WHOSE I am.
This spoke to my heart. My son and his wife stopped me from seeing my two baby granddaughters 3 years ago. There is no justification or reason and the pain never stops. Crushed completely but my walk with my Father is growing stronger and stronger and the Olive tree analogy makes total sense. This makes everything bearable when you know that Jesus really really understands.
A neighbor <—–complete stranger to me, posted on our neighborhood FB page that she was going to host this study in her home this past fall if she had enough interest. She had SO MUCH interest that she did an AM and a PM group!!! So I walked into a complete stranger's home with a room full of complete strangers and we did this study together.
And. It. Was. AWESOME!!! I loved it so much that halfway through I talked with the leader of women's ministry at church and said we HAVE to do this study. …We start the first of June. 🙂
I thought I was going to be relieved of my crushing time teaching at a very rough middle school when my previous position at the elementary school became available (finally, no more stares of unadulterated loathing from pre-teens!)…and then the new administration did not hire me. CRUSHED. Since God got me through my first two years at middle school, I know he still holds me in his loving hands. I am being refined but not destroyed.
” We need both winds of hardship and relief to sweep across our lives if we are to be truly fruitful.” All of this makes so much sense. We have to go through stuff to become stronger and wiser. Thank you so much for your words. I always wonder why we go through things and how can we get past it. But after all is said and done, we made it. We are stronger. We are wiser. And Jesus knows what we need before we do. Amen to what you made me realize. Thank you for being so amazing.
Reading that Jesus said, “my soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” was an encouragement to me. It’s been a difficult season, but Jesus felt this way, too.
Thank you Lysa for these truths. I often think I’m anti social, a loner, or feeling I have few friends, etc. Never really fit in normal groups – mom at 15, divorced 3x, near bankruptcy a few years ago. Then you remind me Jesus was feeling “forsaken” and that aloneness brought him ever closer to His father once It was finished. Bless you Lysa.
I’ll spare you the long version of the past few years of my life. After turning 50, losing my dad, being diagnosed with breast cancer which endured 8 surgeries, and losing my job of 24 years all in a year and a half really took the wind out of my sales. It seems to be a real struggle these days for me to regain my bearings. Trying to start over with a career at this stage in life has been a true challenge. I feel the crushing is all for a reason but sometimes I’m just so,overwhelmed by it all I really do not know where to turn. The aspect of depression is often knocking at my door… a door I don’t want to answer but often time I’m not sure where to turn. I’m sure this teaching would be a step in he right direction. Lysa I always love your perceptive and so does my husband who obviously is by my side walking this road.
This is such a beautiful analogy and picture to what we endure through the storms and difficult situations in our lives. I’m a visual learner so this really helped me to “see” the process of these difficult times in my life, what they are doing for us, how God is in complete control, and how God will use these difficult things for us. Thank you for this lesson and for ALL you do!!
I can relate to this on so many different levels. However, a little over a year and a half ago my sister went home to be with the Lord after her 15 month battle with cancer. She was young. We miss her terribly and are still feeling the brokenness of it all. We have definitely witnessed the blessings through her journey and battle, and the many blessings that followed. However, we are still learning how to deal and cope with it all. I appreciate this teaching because it serves as a good reminder that we are never alone, and He is our salvation.
This is such an important subject you wrote about. No one wants crushing times, but we all have them. It’s how we go through those times that we need to focus on. Thank you for your vision.
I wonder, ask even at times, how many east winds I need to go through. Questioning if when I reach that point of preservation, that is when I am worthy of going home to be with Jesus.
Thankful that I typically forget those trials unless asked and greatfull that each time I have been given the mighty hand of my Lord to walk with.
The Olive Tree story gives me visual balance of my journey. Of all the things I would never have believed I could walk through, “we” have. I need all the reminders , every last one when it is happening and I add this to my arms of strength.
This book was an answer to prayer while shopping in a Bible book store for Christmas presents. I immediately shared with a precious friend. We have texted passages since late December almost every morning since, based on scripture and this book. It’s been life changing. Thought today, ‘I’m freed up for other better-suited assignments tailor-made for me.
And neither of us gets caught in the wake of weird emotions stemming from me feeling rejected and bitter.’ Ch9 Freedom to live life fully in Christ. Thank you. Thank you for this book.
This is such a new analogy for me — the idea of thinking there must be more to the need for me to endure the excruciating pain and heartache of watching my husband turn his back on me & our 3 daughters and file for a divorce. I know God does what seems impossible for us so I pray without ceasing. Yet the divorce somehow continues to move forward while I do nothing, remaining still and knowing that HE IS GOD. I have such difficulty understanding ‘Why’ this continues. What more does God want me to learn or go through before He answers my prayers..? The pain is completely unbearable. I just want to see a speck of light at the end of this cold, black & ugly tunnel.
To live loved has been my motto while the sting of rejection is fresh and real big. I am His and the reminder that others opinions doesn’t change that is amazing to cling to. To live love takes away the reaction to rejection- truths I’ve been clinging to from your book! Would love to do this with the girls in the youth group I work with!
My teenage daughter suffers from depression and anxiety and we want to read this book together. She is homeschooled and I believe this would’ve perfect for her.
This speaks directly to my heart, in 2015 I lost my brother and nephew to two senseless acts of violence. Then in 2016 my younger sister decided that she doesn’t want me in her life, my husband and I raised her from the time she was 13, she’s now 30. Sometimes I just don’t want to get out of bed, because of the crushing weight I feel from everything that has happened. I’m doing the I Am bible study right now, and I feel like it is helping me tremendously. I am trying to stand on the Lords truths, but it’s a struggle daily. To know that I am experiencing these blows so that God can do a work through me is humbling. Thank you for sharing your truths and knowledge with us.
Blessings,
Kim
This has really encouraged me a lot that when we’re crushed, God is always preparing us for something. One thing I know God is faithful, He never leaves nor forsake us, He gave us strength to overcome and gives us answers, He doesn’t let us guess.
God bless you and continue revealing to you His revelations.
Oh Lysa, Thank-you for your encouraging words once again. God certainly speaks through you. This teaching certainly hits home for me; right at the core of my heart. The verse “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;” rings so true in my life story. The most recent instance in my life being the trial of an ongoing, debilitating illness, which resulted in a 2 year battle that ended with brain and spine surgery. It was a journey my husband and I never imagined we’d take, but one that has left us in awe of our Heavenly Father! God worked through my neurosurgeon’s hands and used that surgery to heal me. For which I am so thankful. I LOVE how you Said, “the crushing isn’t the olive’s end…. Crushing is the way of preservation for the olive.”
This is so true and has such great meaning in my own life. I have been crushed in so many different ways, but God has showed himself faithful and strong through every trial, and used each situation to teach me to depend on and trust in him more. Showing me that no matter how much hurt and pain I’ve experienced, he will never leave me or forsake me. He is the FATHER I can always trust and depend on, and I am of great value in His eyes.
I purchased your Univited book when you first made it available on your site. I started reading it, and then a few chapters in, my church started a women’s Bible Study using your Univited kit. I loved reading along and watching the videos, discussing, and growing in knowledge with the ladies in my church. What a blessing! However, due to some unexpected situations and basically, being a mom to two young kiddos, I was unable to attend the last few weeks of study. I am currently on chapter 10 and was just thinking the other day how wonderful it would be to have the DVD at home as I finish reading the book. What a blessing it would be to be gifted one of these sets. The DVD would be put to great use and I would pass the extra book onto a friend. Thank you for your ministry. I have completed a few of your studies over the years and have been so blessed!
Wow!
This is such a profound analogy how we strive through the bad in order to grow, along with carrying on with the good in our lives.
Hardships are the inevitable but never truly viewed it in such a way 🙂
Thank you for a beautiful comparison!
Marie
Reading this book was such an eye opener. I have struggled with depression since i was a little girl and reading this, i felt a connection with not only you but with Papa God. I would really love to have the whole set because i want to go deeper with God. Every thing you said and felt is how i have felt. God bless you Mrs. Lysa for following God’s calling for you. Peace and Love!!
I am currently going through some trying times and am leaning heavily in Jesus and my faith. Your wisdom and biblicsl references gave me both insight and peace. I thank you for that, alone. I’d love to receive this pack and would use it daily to power through this fog. Thanks for the offering and for your ongoing inspiration. ❤?
Sorry…biblical references*
Even being crushed, the Olive can still be used. Even when I feel crushed, God can still use me for His glory.
Mrs. Lysa! Mrs. Lysa!
I just adore you and the wonderful words of wisdom you provide! I know that you are anointed by the Lord to be the hands and feet of Jesus through your gift. My life has been a roller-coaster…..from being put up for adoption, to being abandoned by the mom who adopted me, to finally receiving a very emotionally abusive step mom. There are scars, but through it all I have always clung on to the Lord, even if only by the tips of my finger nails. Sometimes I feel God has peeled the scales from my eyes and has revealed knowledge like that of the olive tree. I’m feeling such a deep longing for this study, as I feel it would be immensely eye opening and healing for me. Thank you so much for giving me an opportunity to be so blessed with your words and a chance to be gifted with this priceless devotion pack.
sometimes it feels like I have been waiting so long ive forgotten how to move. every muscle is stiff and every bone is fragile. sometimes it feels like ive been salted to the point of becoming a dried up garden slug with no hope of restoration. sometimes bitterness looks like a comforting friend and the cold press is just that, cold hard steel. sometimes I feel like I cant bend any deeper into the wind and I’m about to break right in two. or three. or a dozen bits and pieces. i feel completely useless and worthless and breathless but mostly i feel ashamed that the little trials that come my way shake my foundation so severely. it seems every day carries mr further away from peace. to have some hope to cling to and know total desolation isn’t the future would be a great boon to the soul. i sound Godless. perhaps i am. but that is not where i want to be.
I have lived this. I was crushed when my husband of 26 years walked out on me and my two sons. It’s been almost 3 years and the rejection still hurts. I would love to do this study with my group at church. We have all been through similar things are are learning to heal together.
This is such a beautiful representation of brokenness and healing. I become so discouraged sometimes when my heart breaks because someone turns their back on me or doesn’t see worth in me. I want to be married some day. I want someone who won’t run scared. I want someone who will lead our family. I want someone who won’t ever give up. I want a strong man of God. Most of all I want who Jesus wants for me. I want what Jesus wants for me. I seem to always come across the perfect books of blog posts by Lysa at the perfect moments. I love the olive tree. I want to be used in Gods Kingdom work. The representation of the olive tree helps me understand this is how I become useful. I break. And then God rebuilds. And the process is beautiful.
I forget that being crushed produces something that is better than what was originally there. I tend to feel overwhelmed when God is crushing me and it can cause me to back away. Those are the times I need to draw nearer to God.
I was diagnosed at the end of October with breast cancer!
I know I am healed by the blood and pain an stripes and agony of my Savior! I also know he is teaching me through this that this fearfully and wonderfully made temple He has made me is a whole person. And, in reading the outside of your Uninvited book, Lisa, that was my AHA moment! Letting go of these past hurts is part of God’s amazing healing journey for me!
Thank you so much for allowing God to use you to be “the oil of joy” for those of us who mourn!
Thank you! Such a beautiful picture analogy that we can all relate to, and the necessity of this whole process in our lives~to grow closer to Him, even through the pain and hardships, there is growth and reward. I’ve read those verses many times and never did a study on the olive tree, or even noticed or thought about it there in the garden. This was very meaningful to me, as it helps me put my struggles in a proper perspective relating this example to my life (as I sometimes I truly get stuck thinking about the olive ‘pit’ 🙂 Thank you for being such a blessing to us women.
Thank you for sharing this teaching, Lysa. It’s easy to feel as if you’re being crushed under the weight of life’s trials and demands, but just as being crushed isn’t the end for the olive, neither is being pressed the end of me. God is doing a great work in each of us, which He promises to bring to completion. Thank you for this powerful illustration and reminder of God’s love for us.
I read Uninvited and gave it to one of my daughters, who is reading it now. She said she feels like you are reading her mind. I have five children; three of them girls. Two are in college, the youngest is fourteen and I got a fourth daughter recently when my son married. I want to go through this study with them this summer when everyone has a little more time. Excellent message.
This teaching today is right on point in my life. For 15 years I have harbored a heart of bitterness towards God for allowing me to lose 3 precious babies. This deep hurt had caused me to not trust, be cynical, and avoid fellowship with other women. God gave me a word for 2017 that it was going to be a Year of Heart Transformation. I started your “I AM” study and this is truly being used of Him to heal my brokenness. I would love this new study to help further this journey in healing!
The hard, crushing times definitely produce fruit in our lives. Thanks for the reminder. When you are being crushed you forget that this process is meant for good. Hard financial times and chronic debilitating pain that came leading to a diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis at age 30, were my my most recent seasons of life in which I was being crushed. I know more times of being crushed will come, but God has produced fruit in my life already and will again.
This speaks strongly within me. The East wind has been blowing for the last few months for me and am praying and waiting for the West wind to blow. The analogy helps me look at my situation.
The crushing period though seems very painful, lonely and dark but it is actually is the place where we are being broken and being perfected into Christs image. We actually share in His pain and suffering as he went through the very same things though we can’t feel his prescence in this dark place and actually all we have been taught is being put to the ultimate test so tat we come to the end of ourselves and reflect the humility and love of Christ and become a mirror image of Him so that others see Christ in us.
I’ve been walking through this season of revelation and pruning for some time now and this lesson spoke so intimately to me. Thank you.
I look back on my life and the hardest times seemed so bad but I survived them and I can actually see how God was transforming me to be His child. I learned to rely on Him and I still to this day have much to learn from His word. It is through the darkest times that we are molded.
I love the illustration of the olives!
We have to remember that we can rise out of the ashes. God is working in and through us on a daily basis. We have to always trust in him.
Having a type A personality with perfectionism and two girls who unfortunately have that gene too, I feel certain I can share your lessons in your book with them . We have definitely had some east winds lately…first B on report card, not getting cast for a play, not making the volleyball team…. I love your analogy of the olive tree. I personally love olives and had no idea they go through so much to be so good!!!
I have found this post very inspiring and moving as I have just overcome a difficult season of learning to forgive but also letting go. I continue to pray for my prodigal and move aside to allow God to fight my fight and carry me to forgiveness.
I love your reminder that the “curing process” can be lengthy. I needed that truth today! So often it’s easy to put pressure on myself to “be better” and forget that God wants to be thorough and take His time in the curing process of my heart. Would love to read your book and dig deeper into that process.
Lysa
Life has thrown me many curve balls. Through it all I have relied on books/audio books and daily posts from you. I don’t know how I could have gone through without the scripture based blogs that you produce
God Bless You
Helps me believe that God is there and have to trust him and God has complete control, and how God will use these difficult things for me.
I just experienced a terrible accident by slipping at the movies and breaking my Tibia and Fibula on a Friday. The drs had to break it back into place and put a temp cast. Didn’t think it was emergency to have surgeons fix it because bone wasn’t out of the skin. That and the fact they don’t like to mess with 3rd party ins. After we went a few more days and 3 dr later we were able to see a dr and have surgery the following Wednesday. You see if I had lied and said it happened in my home my ins would have paid and had surgery asap. Because I told the truth I was a problem and they passed the buck. Now I’m out of work (self employed so there is no income) for 6 weeks at least. Dr said non weight bearing then physical therapy for another 6 weeks. I have a liscensed daycare so there is no guarantee they will come back.
We were suppose to leave on vacation today with our kids – nonrefundable hotel in NYC. Plus my husband has to miss work to take care of me so there goes his vacation days.
In the meantime the movie theatre and insurance try to figure out what is next as I have to pay deductibles n copay. My husband is so awesome and he listens as I tell GOD where are you Now? He said it’s ok he has big shoulders he can take it.
This is a temporary situation for us we need to pray for those couples who are terminal and one is the caregiver. Praying for them has really changed my pain some days.
I could really use your bible study but I surely don’t have the funds. I have taken several of them already. I listened to you speak when you visited Amarillo Texas.
I visited the Holy Lands about 10 years ago and have always wanted to go back. Maybe I can see it through your eyes in your study with DVD. If it’s not meant to be just please keep me and my precious husband in your prayers ???
Lysa,
I love the crushing of the olive not being the end but getting the most out of it. Crushed but not destroyed. Ah such wise truth that I needed to hear today. I have been praying about leading a study with friends on this book and winning this would be Gods answer to that. Thank you for your transparency.
Blessed me so much! I need to value the crushing times as much as the flourishing times. Thank you!
What a great reminder that the Lord walks with us daily – that we are never alone
Thank you Lisa for reminding me that Jesus knows the feeling of betrayal. He gave his all and yet the ones he came to save are the very ones that hurt him.
“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” Mark 23:34
When Jesus said this he knew the betrayal that was coming, he knew the pain and he still choice to suffer for us. And you are so right I forget so easily.
Thank you Lord Jesus that you are using my pain and suffering to transform me to be more like you.
I am struggling through the process like an olive with raising 3 teenagers. We have good days but seems like a lot of hard days. If it’s not one teenager it’s another. I feel like I’m drowning at times just barely staying above water. But, I know God is able I just keep wondering if I’m doing any good. Thanks so much for being transparent!
Your posts are always a blessing. This one is no exception. ❤
“First, in order to be fruitful the olive tree has to have both the east wind and the west wind. The east wind is the dry hot wind from the desert. This is a harsh wind. So harsh that it can blow over green grass and make it completely wither in one day.
The west wind, on the other hand, comes from the Mediterranean. It brings rain and life.”
This really speaks to me today. I shared this post with my daughter earlier but didn’t realize that there was a giveaway so I have come back to reread and enter. I would love to share this study with the women close to me.
“The crushing is not the end of the olive.” Love this quote! My heart jumped as i read it. As a single mom of boys, now 21 & 17, we were “pressed inn every side”, through hardship, loneliness, abusive landlord, but that was not the end. All of it was intended to shape our lives. God is awesome!
I did the Uninvited bible study last year with you and learned so much. I have dealt with loss & rejection all my life. Your book Univited was beautifully written & truly spoke to my heart & those hurting places. I would love to share this with my friend & family. Thank you Lysa for being real with us in a most meaningful & inspiring way. It lets us know we are not alone.
Thank you Lysa! I am currently doing your bible study Finding I Am. It has been wonderful and very powerful. I’m struggling with being single. I have been a Christian for 20 years and have prayed for a good Godly man, but I am still single. About 3 years ago I began dating a good man who told me he was a Christian also. After dating for a few weeks, and after sharing my testimony with him, he informed me he wasn’t a Christian after all. He thought he was, he had been raised in church. Long story short, I didn’t leave. I decided that since he was a good man and treated me well, and since God had not answered my prayer, then I was going to take matters in to my own hands. We dated on and off (we would break up when I felt God not wanting this man for me) but then I would stay away from him for 4-6 weeks and then go back to him (because God hadn’t sent His guy yet). In October we broke up and I have vowed to stay away. My heart hurts and longs for him daily. I’m trying to trust that God wants the best for me, but honestly I’m terrified of aleays being alone. Please pray for me.
The tear-filled place from which you speak.
I know about that place. Thank you for using the olive tree an illustration of hope. I would love to dig in to this teaching with my people. Thank you.
I have struggled my entire life with my relationship with my mother. She recently went through an extreme medical ordeal, where she had an infection so bad that the doctors could not say for weeks if she would survive. She has pulled through with the loss of sight in one eye and extensive facial reconstructive surgery. I felt so much grief, shame and regret in those long hours I thought she wouldn’t make it. Yet, on the other side of things, our relationship hasn’t changed. I even feel resentment and confusion towards her with how she lives. I keep asking God why I must continue to pick up the pieces of her life, nurse her back to health, only for her to return to the same person with no change. I know there has to be some reason, some purpose, for these sorrowful and crushing times.
My word for this year is “treasure” because I was convicted of not treasuring my relationship with the Lord as I should. Last week, the Lord helped me to realize that maybe I don’t treasure Him the way thatnI should because I really don’t see/understand how much He loves me. For me to love others, I need to trust that the Lord is taking care of me (that He loves me) and I need to treasure this relationship with Him. Even when it is crushing, He has it all under control!
Even through the crushing…there is joy waiting. A lesson not easily swallowed- but certainly needed.
Thank you. The part that spoke to me today was, 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;” My life journey has taken me through many crushing seasons. I look at them as trainings and preparations now. Like training for a marathon. They are still hard times when they come but my endurance is greater because my faith is stronger, my tolerance for the discomfort has grown because I have seen the faithfulness of the Lord’s promises. I loved listening to the audio of “Uninvited”. I have passed it along and I have a waiting list for it already. I see this speaking to many women and I can’t wait to share it with them.
I need these reminders right now… esp. that the crushing isn’t the end. God has a sweet purpose in it and through it. Thank you!
Thank you thank you thank you. As I struggle with a recent layoff from my employer of 10 years, I am crushed but not destroyed. I have placed my trust in the Lord to guide me on this new path but some days are much harder than others. I am the olive — and he is not finished growing or reaping with me. I remain with my arms wide open for what he will show me.
I absolutely loved – and needed to read this. My favorite part was
“When the sorrowful winds of the east blow, I forget they are necessary.
When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.
And when I’m being crushed, I forget it’s for the sake of my preservation.”
I have this printed/written/memorized and repeat it daily as a reminder that without my brokenness, I would not be where I am today, in my journey with a mighty, loving, sovereign God.
I would love to share this study with other ladies – that see the olive tree – but hesitant to taste and see.
Thank you!!
Doing a study right now and would love to start this one next!
Recently went through the most crushing, life-changing heartbreak I’ve encountered in my 33 1/2 years, so I decided to read Uninvited, and I’m going to read it again. I need to be reminded of these truths daily! So often, we search for love and peace and security that only God can provide. Thanks to this book, I am in a much better, more hopeful place. My heart is now longing for more and more of Jesus, and I am so thankful for the daily encouraging messages that are always exactly what I need to hear.
After I felt the major sting of rejection from my step mother (she told me that if I were her kid things would be different in the sense that she would love me) I was completely heart broken and I felt really lost. I was a major blow. I started reading this book and it has taught me so much about who I am in Christ and how I’m not defined by the rejection that I feel in this world but only through him do I get my value and worth!
I’ve been singing “refiners fire, my heart’s one desire..” in my head, this message was so good for me to read, helps me to be patient. I’d love to continue with your whole study, uninvited. Lately, I’m feeling totally different & set aside. Love your Boldness to speak truth.
I think the realization that we are not alone is a significant help. After my husband of ten years left, I found myself faced with a choice to become bitter or accept my reality. With God’s help, I accepted it and grew closer in my walk through this crushing time. It is still hard, but I know He has me in His arms.
Uninvited has given a good friend and I a better perspective on the way we view things. We both have had some struggles we are working through and this book was an answer to those struggles. We want to study more and the verses to bring this to truth in our lives.
I loved this after a very long day at work. Thank you!
This teaching so spoke to me today. Over the past 5 or 6 years I have felt crushed many times in several areas in my life. So much that it had an adverse effect on my health but reading this today gave me a better understanding and a better perspective on things. Pressed but not destroyed. Thank you so much.
Honestly, my heart hurts that it is so hard to read this article and process it. This verse, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” (Mark 14:34, NIV). I will stop here for now, taking comfort that Jesus knows what I feel.
No matter what it is that we are going through we have a choice. We can look at it as a time of crushing and let it destroy us, or we can let this process change us. God has a plan for each one of us if we just let him work in our lives. When we realize that God is preparing us for the end product we can learn to lean on Him for our strength. God will not let the time of crushing defeat us, we have victory through Christ.
Wow. God’s timing is impeccable. The weight of the world is upon me, and though I am holding out every hope and ounce of faith I have, yearning for God’s breath of new life and striving to read His Word and pray–reading the the olive is only preserved and is most valuable when it is pressed down to the point of what might be perceived a source destruction–so much yes. Thank you for speaking the word that God has laid on your heart.
Thank you for reminding me that even everyday life with children although with its own pressure will not destroy me. You book really ministered to me, especially the part about not being set aside but being set apart. Thank you!
It’s like standing in front of the refrigerator, doors open, staring mindlessly at the same food you’ve had for weeks. You’re not really hungry, but you grab something regardless. My love life has been just that. I’m 25 and the only one left in the single girls club. It’s hard when I begin to think about wanting children and a husband because despite everyone’s warning, I do feel rushed. So much so that my standards of what I expect have lowered. I become involved with men just to have something to look forward to; men that I know aren’t in God’s plan for me, but I do so anyways. Even though I know they are untrue, I begin to let thoughts creep in: God’s punishing you with this heartbreak for not listening; there really are no good Godly men left so why not settle for this guy; you’re standards are way too high and you’re expectations will never be met. The weight of those thoughts crush me. I felt connected to your post, not because I felt that it changed my thinking, but because it made me feel that someone even as well-known as you has tribulations to endure for God to help you grow. It introduced me to people that were feeling just as alone. It made me less afraid to share this story, even if it is under a pseudonym. I read part of your book Uninvited (borrowed) and would love to continue my journey.
From the get go I was born into something different being born to 2 deaf parents and I’m hearing. As a kid I was picked on really bad and made fun of even through high school. I never fit in anywhere. I learned to hate myself, subjected myself to abuse and being used and got to the point of attempting to kill myself. So for the past 4 years, and it is still an ongoing process of,I’ve been trying to come out of my depression. It is still an ongoing process of healing but I’m a much stronger person today.
I’ve been through many crushing times in the past and currently am being crushed again in multiple ways. I loved the analogy of the olive tree. After many painful experiences over the years I am finally beginning to see how I have been blessed to go through these hardships. They drive you to your knees and keep you holding tightly to God’s hand.
I am broken by the memory of my late father’s complete lack of acknowledgement of me, ever, unless he was yelling at (reprimanding) me or giving me orders. I have tried to forgive him and just today I realized I have not yet done so. He passed in 2005 and I will be 50 in June. I want to forgive him. It’s like I’m waiting to see him again so I can hear from him before I do. The rational part of me knows he didn’t know any better. My heart tells me he did and couldn’t have cared less about me. How to really forgive his emotional absence?
I never would of put that teaching together like that, but it makes perfect sense. This last year has just about destroyed me. Not one I chose to go through, but was desperately needed. On this end of it and with the beginning of another trial starting. I know that it brings teaching and balance. With the Lord I will be strong, but I am struggling.
I LOVE this analogy! The process of being “crushed” in order to produce the best “oil” resonates with my soul so much! The times that the Lord is molding and refining me are so hard and often painful, but so worth it! It has been my experience that even the process of being refined, as hard as it is, has the sweetness of Jesus’ intimate presence! It is in those moments that Jesus’s perfect empathy reaches the layers of me that need healing, growth and change. He weaves both His truth and grace in those layers, just like the “east”and “west” wind blow on the olive tree. We need both types of “winds” to produce “fruit”(growth), as well as intentional “crushing” to produce the best “oil” (result).
It was so cool to look at the olive in a totally different light, and in turn to view difficulties we face a different and more healthier way. Thank you.
I just returned from the funeral
Of my 24 year old niece. She was killed in a car accident.
This found me right where I was at and brought me peace. I am feeling very crushed from all sides, I now understand this the part that will make me more useful. GOD is so good!
I feel so encouraged after reading this post. Scripture tells us to expect some storms, but when you find yourself out in the deepest part of the ocean, trusting God often times is not our first reaction. Fear, anxiety, hopelessness, invisable…these are just a few things I personally have struggled with. When you surrender your heart, your life to Christ, there is a process that comes with it. The Holy Spirit begins to change us from the inside out. The most beautiful, natural diamonds are made from intense heat and pressure deep down into the earth. It is our faith and trust in the Lord that sustains us in the darkest of times. “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever.” Psalm 125:1 ESV
Thank you for this! My son is really struggling right now. And a big part of that is feeling rejected. While I’m not sure he would be able to read and comprehend this whole message, it gives me some really good scriptures and things that I can share with him.
Ministering to women is crushing, even devastating at times. Probably more often than I like to admit. And it leaves me feeling hurt, raw, vulnerable – uninvited. But the warm breath and healing balm of the Holy Spirit come if I will let them and restore me to invest deeply and love deeply once again. Until the next crushing time.
“We need both winds of hardship and relief…” There is so much truth in that statement. Thank you for following God’s calling for your life to help us all dive deeper into His Word.
Shared with my college freshman daughter who is struggling to find a place to “belong” on a campus lacking Christian ministries and people. We keep pointing her to take the longview and higher ground though she feels crushed on so many levels right now. Hearts are so tender when uninvited at this stage of so desperately wanting to belong.
I’ve been heartbroken by the death of family members & by friends who don’t have time for me. However, your devotionals & books are very helpful, uplifting & encouraging! I’m anxious to do this Bible study with friends!
I love the way visual pictures around can remind us of truth. The olive tree won’t be the same. Thank you.
Having survived–barely–my own life crushing event, I would love to study your materials on this problem that so many experience. I would like to share with my Women’s Ministry group if possible.
Being crushed is a difficult thing- but it is the beginning of a process that allows us to be useful. I have lost some dear friendships lately and have really struggled with those rejections. I appreciate the perspective the olive gives me! There is hope!
Read “Uninvited” and then bought them for my daughters and nieces for Christmas! My 22nd wedding anniversary just passed. The day that was supposed to be a joyous celebration was instead a mourning of a bond that has been broken by betrayal and a choice of the man who vowed “til death do us part” to walk away from me and our beautiful kids. Your words above touched me just as they did when I read the book from cover to cover and remembered who I am in Christ. His perfect peace has been present as daily He reminds me to Live Loved! Thank you for your ministry!
I read this through tears and found a little comfort while going thru what seems like an unbearable struggle. Thank you..
Someone once told me that there is purpose in the pain. Yes, but it is so difficult when the season of pressing seems endless. But, as I read this tonight the sentence “it is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness” jumped out at me. The wounds to my heart have been so cruel and deep that I have felt bitterness is an ok response, an emotion that I have a right to feel. That is not what the Holy Spirit is telling me tonight. wow! God cure me of the bitterness, so that I may continue to be pressed to usefulness.
Wow! God knew I needed this tonight. I have someone that has turned away from a friendship that I thought was special. She refuses to even try and talk about it…and it hurts. I am hurting. But this spoke to me tonight. Thank you for being the tool sent by God to speak to me.
What a powerful teaching about the olive tree–my ladies group at church would love to go through this study. I enjoyed this blog post so much.
As I read this tonight I am laying in bed, trying to regain strength and desire to get up and start moving again after just losing my favorite big brother whom I was very close to. I have been holding myself responsible for his death, feeling I could have done more to help him. Right night I am in the stage of being crushed. Praying to come out on the other side with a better understanding of why things happened as they did. I need peace and understanding. I’ve been reading your posts all day and each one has spoken directly to me. Thank you and God Bless!
Thank you!!! ❤️
I too so easily forget…
Love how our Creator gives us such amazing reminders through His creation.
Sometimes we look for the big signs from God when it’s right there in front of us. The little things. Like an olive. The older I get the more I see the importance in the little things, the simpler things. God speaks to us in so many little ways if we are open to hearing his messages.
After seeing my 2 month old child go through an emergency surgery and then leaving my marriage due to infidelities I have learned that I am so much stronger than I ever thought. I still struggle with raising my children in a single parent home and coping with the stress of having three kids at 7, 5 and 2. But I find my faith to be so much stronger now.
I am just starting a bible study in my community and I am hoping one day to create a group of single parents.
Lysa, my husband died a little over 2 years ago. Crushed is how I have felt since, crushed and alone! Your words daily thru proverbs 31, tweets and YouTube have given me hope, have helped me see I am not uninvited, that I have a Savior that loves me! Thank you, for hope, for all you do!!!
“It is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness.
If we are to escape the natural bitterness of the human heart, we have to go through a long process as well … the process of being cured.”
This. Bitterness has taken over my heart in so many ways. I don’t want it. I FEEL useless in this time, this place. Praying that, like the olive, I will be cured and given purpose.
New city .. new job,,, new church,, no friends. I feel crushed daily and struggle to remember that He is indeed still working. In fact despite my feelings, He hasn’t stopped.
Thanks for this powerful,encouraging, focusing reminder. It reminds me He is rejoicing over me with gladness, quieting me with His love, rejoicing over me with singing….He’s committed to bring me safely through, bearing much fruit that remains.
Thank you for the reminder that Jesus wrestled the crushing-heart feeling. “When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.” So true – this is so easy for forget.
This spoke to me! I’m feeling pressed by commitments lately. And by the needs of three little ones. Feeling like I can never get ahead and organized. But I know I am doing what God has called me to do. And through the pressure he is forming me exactly as he planned. I needed this reminder today!
I guess I wonder how many deep crushings have to occur?
Love how this book keeps “inviting” me read & study & learn to breathe its truth!
Facing so many crushing circumstances/ relationships…
I lost my job 4 weeks ago. I had purchased “Uninvited” a month before but had yet opened it. I spent days with a pencil & that book. It made a major difference in how I was able to cope. Thank you Lysa. Every one of your posts speak to me. ❤
I first heard about the olive grove while at my first woman’s retreat. It amazes me that’s God would use this analogy something the disciples and people in that day would completely understand. Yet this lesson is easy to forget when times are hard and I’m thankful for the reminder that even Jesus carried our sin, so crushed so we could be clean. Our walk with God means times of being sifted and set apart! Thank you Lysa for this teaching that God intends us to be refined with pure value!
I’m just reminded that my struggles are not for nothing and that I’m not going through them alone either.
I struggle with feeling like the outsider looking in. Im hoping this study will help me see that outsider isnt my defining word daughter, loved and wanted are!
processing time!! Aw…a time that God is working on me. He with me and I’m not alone!
Thank you for this reminder today. In this world we live I am often feeling crushed from so many directions. What a powerful reminder of why we go through this. Thank you!
I’ve struggled with my raw emotions for years. I’ve gone through tough situations throughout the years, but it wasn’t until I heard you talking about your book (on Facebook live a few weeks ago with the other women) that I realized the core of my issues was rejection. I bought your book and I cannot stop reading it, I even read it at work! To be honest, I don’t really have anyone to talk to about the challenges I face, so reading your book makes me feel connected to someone that can relate to me. Since starting your book I have already learned so much, but I would love love love to learn more from you! So receiving this bundle would be awesome, if not though I know the people who do receive them will be blessed by it! Thank you for being sensitive to the Holy Spirit and surrendering your life so you can help people like me.
This spoke to me on so many levels. I have been through the most traumatic time of my life in the past two years and I am just beginning to understand that when God presses us it’s to make us better and to put us on the His path for our lives and not just try to do it our own. You have been so inspiring and I look forward to reading your encouragement and teaching daily as I focus on a new path for my life that is God’s will, not my own.
God will always help us through the tough times. Would love to win this study to share with my friends
Jenny in florida
I have always been the happy go lucky everything is perfect Christian. Of course I have had normal everyday set backs but I considered myself awesomely blessed, because I have God & my whole life is about him. Than my children got abused & the abuser still got awarded custody in a seperate state. Of course momma bear instincts came out & I kept them. Who wouldn’t? Than I got arrested & they were made to go back kicking & screaming. In that moment alone in a jail cell being stripped of everything I am, never ever being in trouble before I yelled, cussed & screamed at God. I promised my children they wouldn’t be hirt again, that they need to trust in God. How dare he? How could he forget me? How could he not protect them? And that hate continued…until it swallowed me up, I refused visitation, phone calls, I lost 20 lbs. and I no longer “lived” I was an empty shell. I have always felt the spirit, gotten chills, felt a presence but never actually heard God when praying. One day after our lock down which by the way we were lockdowned 18 hours out of the day. I collapsed & prayed with all my heart for God to please forgive me. How could I question him. How could I let the enemy sneak in and I heard the calmest voice say, “get up my daughter, I love you”. The one & only time I’ve ever heard him, I had the best most fulfilling peaceful feeling ever & the days breezed by. 3 months, an extradition, several dcfs cases, prayer groups, flying back & forth between two states twice a month, leaving my husband & children to go to court to fight for the other two & 5,000 if not more dollars spent on lawyers, mediation, travel etc. I am blessed, happy, and at peace. It was and is so hard to see Gods will and plan in the moment but I praise him now during the worst just as I would during the triumph because it has to happen, it will & it is okay. He knows what your going through, he will never forsake you, he leads me & I follow sometimes blindly but happily. I love this teaching. No matter where your at or how many times you read this, you will always need it. It will always be helpful just like all the other stories in the bible, this is just more personal for me and will always be close to my heart.
I’m so tired of being crushed again and again. I need a live olive tree as a visual reminder that He loves and walks with me. God is good all the time. Would love to do this study ♡
I love your posts. And I cannot even describe how much they mean to you during this time trials. Thank you. I Cannot wait to read this book and would love to utilize the DVD and study guide as well.
I knew I wanted to order your book the first time I saw a preview for it. I ordered it when it came out. But I have to admit that I have really struggled with getting through the reading because I have found healing to be somewhat painful. I want to “get better” but I struggle with having to re-hash all those feelings. But I am trying to press on. I keep reading your Facebook posts, blogs, etc. One of the most empowering things I have read so far is the idea to speak “life” of the person who hurt me so deeply. That helps a lot – as well as that scriptural reminder that our struggle is not against flesh and blood. We are sisters in Christ and it is Satan who has sought to drive that wedge between us. Day by day God gives me the strength to move forward. I really appreciate your willingness to tackle this issue that so many of us have but don’t like to speak of.
It’s easy to perceive our situation as the end all, just like the crushing of the olive. I love how Lysa puts everything in a way that we came understand her meaning. We are being refined by the things we think are crushing us to preserve us and the create something new out of us that is useful to display His glory. Uninvited has been such a great book to go through and read and has changed my life. I am looking forward to going good deeper and doing the study as well!
I read this am and my heart leaped for joy. After 38 years of marriage n my husband abandoned me n our children n families. I knew it would be a process of layers of healing but this was such an enlightnment and excellent tool. I would love to do a bible study at my church on this. Debbie , Porterville ca
I have been studying suffering and whether is comes from the Lord, or Satan.
This post was extremely helpful and made what I believe even clearer, and for that I am most grateful.
I think of the Scripture: For these light afflictions are but for a moment but are working for us an exceeding weight of glory. 2 Cor.4.17 in the light of this post and all the pieces come together.
Thank you so much. Your teaching blesses me over and over, year by year, and I thank God for you ad ask His blessings upon you as you continue to teach so many.
Heavy college course load, working part time, leadership roles in extracurriculars, financial struggles, and an ever present worry in the back of mind that health issues that seem to have almost finished healing will come back worse than before, all while trying to figure out what God’s plan for my life after college is and how best to prepare, if that is even possible, and follow that path. Relationships that I don’t know if they are going to last and in what capacity. Just general stress from trying to do it all and knowing sometimes we can’t because somethings we can’t do anything about. Trying to take time to find the blessed in the stressed.
It makes me dwell in the truth and knowledge that I am so very cherished by the One who created me. Even in my sadness, despair and overwhelming feelings of anxiety and unworthiness, I am loved. The picture perfect lives my peers may seem to be living is a false view of reality. I struggle with comparisons and expectations I put on myself and they seem to beat me up the most. We all struggle, we’re all doing the
best we can with what we have. We fall, we learn, we grow and we fall again. Through it all, God is good and has a perfect plan for us.
As I am currently going through my husband just getting laid off a week and half ago, my special needs daughter’s aggression has gotten worse while at school and my Dad is dying (long story), the verse spoke to me, “Let’s read verses 8 and 9 in the King James Version: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;””
I’m tired of the crushing times but thankful that He’s teaching me/taught me that whatever I’m faced with I won’t be completely crushed/stressed/broken/dispaired because God carries me through every time. I’d love to win to do this study with some of my friends.
I am currently going through a period where I am being pressed. Like you said, Jesus is taking away the bitterness of my heart and it’s a painful process where sometimes I feel I’m not gonna make it. God has shown me freedom through the emotional health he provides; I felt I experienced the sea after being almost all my life in a fish tank, and I desire wholeheartedly to be able to walk in this freedom as I learn to abide in him daily and die to myself. But, it is a process, a painful process. Knowing that Jesus is able to relate to our suffering brings me peace and hope, and invites me to endure as I learn more about his character. I hope to learn more about this in this bible study.
I needed this in this very moment. For WEEKS God has used your Tweets to “answer” prayers I’ve just cried out or to redirect an anxious or rambling thought. It’s gotten to the point that wherever I am, when my phone notifies me you’ve tweeted, I stop immediately and read it because I’m pretty sure it’s a direct call from God. ? This was one such moment. Just finished praying over my son who deals with much confusion and rejection as a result of his high functioning autism… wed had one such incident tonight at his youth group. These situations incite fear in me as our experience has greatly been that in times like tonight, we’ll get hit with the sucker punch tomorrow from school or a parent or something and I cannot foresee or plan or prepare for it and then I get mad at their need to “speak truth” when they have no real clue of what truth is here! So tonight I was foreseeing all that flying in from the back 40 tomorrow while telling my son “God has this, let’s thank him!” And your tweet came in. LOL. Gods faithfulness continues to astound me, and its humbling that he’d care to be so personal… yet even in that, the anxious thoughts sit at the back of my mind. The fear wants to jump in. Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief. Make me aware of your powerful and comforting spirit and presence and your sense if truth justice and defending the cause of the helpless and the misunderstood. Thank you Lysa for sharing his word.
Thankful for the hard, refining seasons that lead to something so beautiful…grace and restoration. I feel like I’m coming out of one of those hard seasons and now the Lord is getting ready to use me in big ways!
This speaks to me so much. My marriage ended a couple years ago, I was devastated , I had no idea how I was going to move forward with my daughters. That is when I began to grow more as a Christian , God used these crushing times to strengthen me and my relationship with him.
Recently I have been dealing with breast cancer. Just finished chemo and single mastectomy. I went for a follow up visit last week and found out my cancer was found in many lymph nodes (surprised all of my doctors because this didn’t show on any scans, etc. done over the past 7 months). This means I will have to go through radiation next. This has crushed my heart… all I have prayed for over the past few months is no radiation. I get treatments 4 hrs from home, so daily radiation will mean that I will have to be away from from young children for at least 6 wks during treatment. I have been praying for an answer, why has God chosen to answer my prayer for no radiation WITH the need for radiation. Today your lesson has spoken to my heart, reminded me to continue to look for the reason behind the crushing. This must be part of my processing. I look forward to the final outcome in my processing!
We are never the same after going through the crushing process. That’s when we really “taste and see that the Lord is good”. Trust in his goodness no matter what season of life you are in!
My husband has sepsis & it seems to be a never ending & extremely painful ordeal. We are facing another surgery next week.
I can see God using this to get my husband to humble himself to be used for the Kingdom. There are times that my husband shares this view but lately the pain & frustration has overwhelmed him. I struggle with the day to day caring for him & balancing the Kingdom view.
This study spoke to me deeply as tonight was particularly trying. I so appreciate your writing. Thank you for being a vessel for His word.
Hi Lisa,
Uninvited has great analogies and stories that reflect feelings of embarasment, which I can relate to.. Often I feel out of place and self aware of my lack of confidence unlike others around me. Your book spoke to me Gods continual love inspite of what I feel or think.
Thank you
I love that God leaves reminders for us, like the olive tree and the rainbow. I also love that you write devotions to help us understand some of these reminders on a deeper level.
Thank you. Tonight at bible study I really felt shut down and rejected. I’ve struggled all my life with rejection as I came from a drug addicted family, my dad left when I was 12. All I’ve ever wanted was someone to love me. Which means I struggle with people pleasing and approval from all. I recently started reading uninvited and it is really helping me a long with prayer. So this message was truly sent from God at the right time. I’m really excited about this study. Thank you so much for allowing God to use you.
Recently suffered a miscarriage after trying forever to get pregnant… life is crushing me every time I see another friend pregnant or someone ask when we will have a baby… your words have been so inspiring lately through your blog and proverbs 31 ministries… it seems like God has lined up your words for the exact timing I need them most! Amazing how His timing really is perfect if we just allow Him to do His perfect work.
I struggle in the moments of conflict to remember all God is teaching me. I have been wondering how long this season will last. The east wind on the olive tree was a interesting thought…I love the analogy.
This study just reiterates a message that’s been on my heart that God does give us more than we can handle…it helps us rely on Him and allows Him to mold us, cleanse us, and transform us into something new…like the process of the olive.
This is so
Relevant to my current situation. I was laid off back in Dec – a very uninvited situation. I have to say that God has been speaking to my heart and changing me from the inside out which is blessing me. I have learned that the uninvited things are truly major blessings from a Father that loves us beyond measure.
This post reminded me of this today.
We serve a MAGNIFICENTLY AWESOME God!
Bless you!
To me it reinforces the notion that you have to take the good with the bad. I wish I could avoid the painful parts, but they’re necessary.
I absolutely love the truths from this book! I just can’t believe how much past rejections affect the present. I’ve been sharing these lessons with anyone who will listen. Thanks for blessing others with your words. 🙂
This is amazing timing for me to read- God truly needed me to hear this message today. I went to my doctor today for a follow up after a long year of medical issues and surgery. My kidney is stable but not improving. It was crushing news but this experience is teaching me to fully rely on God. Also picked up my baby girl from Kindergarten today with tears in her eyes. Some the girls are being mean to her and she was just crushed today. I was so at a loss and am still in prayer not knowing how to God wants me to handle this. Love the book Uninvited – read it while I was healing from surgery. Learning to live loved and know that God is good all the time. Thank you Alyssa for your sweet words!!
Lysa’s writings always speak directly to my heart. Through her stories and scripture, she has helped me overcome past hurts and gain more confidence in myself and God’s awesome love for me. I only wish this book would have been around wheh my mom was
dealing with some of her past hurts and rejection. I have already ordered a book for my husband, in hopes that it will help him overcome pain, rejection and feelings of inadequacy rooted during his childhood
What touched me was when you wrote that Jesus had crushing times. I get overwhelmed by loneliness sometimes and Jesus probably felt the same, without getting overwhelmed. Lysa, you always write words that speak to my heart. Thank you, so much!
With God’s help alone can we be pressed but not crushed! Thanks for the reminder!!
Your teachings are so heartfelt. I am always up lifted when I read your blogs. Thank You!
I’m so thankful God lead me to this post tonight. I have never visited your website before and am in need of hearing these words today.
During those crushing times there is purpose there is reason. May my eyes be fixed on Jesus alone during these times to sustain and lead.
“Jesus knew the crushing-heart feeling. He felt it. He wrestled with it. He carried it.” This helps me to know that He does understand, and I’m not alone.
Being single for all of my life has not been easy and I appreciate the reminder of the olive tree! Remember that the I am being preserved gives me hope. Our God is patient and loving and I need to too! Thank you for sharing!
This is a peaceful reminder that the struggles are worth it and God is always victorious.
<3
Hi. The post helped me today by realizing what is important in life. Just like the olive tree, life passes all around us and we should be fruitful. Be careful how we press on in life and just stop for a moment and realize how special growing in a moment is. Thank you for the beautiful reminder.
Thank you for this! I’m currrently in the midst of a divorce and while I am crushed, I know I’m not destroyed! God is good all the time and I know he is walking right by my side through all of this.
I have been struggling with feelings of rejection my whole life. This has translated into my dating relationships. I am learning to fill the hole of rejection with God, rather than people. So thankful for this teaching!
Today I used the teachings from “Uninvited” to walk my 13 (2 days shy of 14) year old daughter through the sting of literally being uninvited. She was heart broken. She doesn’t cry easily, but she held on to me and harshly wept. I spoke the truths I’d learned from Lysa, prayed over my baby through tears of understanding, then we played her favorite game. There is healing to be found in “Uninvited”, and I shared it with one of my favorite people on the earth today. Thanks, Lysa, for being God’s vessel to speak to us.
Walking through this last year, I have been pressed. I felt like I would be crushed under the weight of a broken family, hurt, anger, and frustration. I came to a point where I didn’t care if I was going to be crushed, I just wanted it to be over. Looking back now, I’m thankful for everything. Of course I would have liked that things didn’t play out how they did, but I have grown a lot over this season. I get to the point sometimes where I question what it all was for and why this difficult situation isn’t over/ why there doesn’t seem to be a solution, so it’s encouraging to be reminded that it’s for our good, that this isn’t just for nothing. It’s not fun to be pressed, especially to the point of feeling crushed, but I can honestly say that wouldn’t take any of it back. The Lord has revealed himself to me so much during this times and taught me so much. I would rather go through the pressing, hard, and challenging times and become who he wants me to be, then to just stay the same. Thanks for the encouragement!
I think we all forget that the difficulty in our lives is often for our own protection. Thank you Jesus for knowing what is best for our lives!
Wow. I needed to see this today. My ex-husband left eight years ago when I was pregnant with our first child, and I’ve been single ever since. My son and I pray daily for a godly man to come into our lives, and sometimes it feels like it’s never going to happen. Sometimes it feels like I’m ALWAYS going to be a single mom, and like it’s ALWAYS going to be hard. But raising my son alone and having to trust, almost solely, in our Heavenly Father to fulfill both our spiritual and emotional needs has sanctified us both in ways we would never have dreamed. It’s easy to think the hard times are just hard. Today’s teaching is a beautiful reminder that being pressed is only bringing sweeter fruit. Thank you for these words!
Crushed…Jesus knew he was going to go through a crushing time. He knew Judas was planning to portray Him, yet he followed His usual routine by going to the Olive Grove.
Today’s blog is another way God is speaking to me about Judas and Jesus. Judas had so many chances to turn around and flee sin.
Your blog emphasizes Jesus willingness to be crushed for me. I need to follow His example of service by remembering the crushing times are for His glory.
Thank you.
I couldn’t have learned of this study pack at a better time- I am currently seeking a study to lead a group of friends in. Our group is comprised of mothers who have lost children to addiction, wives whose husbands have left, single moms who are cancer survivors, and those who battle other issues. I know that the true source of strength, peace, hope and restoration lies in Christ and the power of His Word. If I were to be the recipient of this study pack, I can assure you that it will impact more than a few lives and we would be so grateful. However it is my prayer that whoever is blessed with the gifts will see the fruit of this wonderful study many times over. Thank you for offering this wonderful resource and may God bless your ministry.
My husband and I really struggling to stay together, our children are caught in the middle of this I am feeling defeated most days it is a struggle to get up and get moving !! I really believe God has a plan for all that I am going through and I believe this study will help me see what God has in store for me and my family !!
I had just finished planning my dream wedding and everything was set to go. I was the luckiest girl marrying the perfect guy. We only had 3 months until we said “I do” when my fiancé came back from and a mission and told me he didn’t love me. After the two longest weeks of my life we ended things and I was left to pick up the pieces. My sister bought me the book and had it shipped to my house. I had just quit my job and was living in the apartment that was our planned married apartment. This book spoke so boldly to my heart in the time that my heart hurt the most. It showed me a grace of God that comes when you hurt the most and that through the deepest hurts, he is shaping my love story that is His. I am forever greatful that Uninvited was dropped on my front porch because it lead me on the path of healing.
I would love this, I am at a place in life now where the Lord is growing me for his glory!! Love,love it. Praise Him!!
I love analogies! I thought this book the first it was on the shelf. I picked it up and try to read it, but my heart wasn’t ready for the honesty of it. I gave up a while picked it up again same thing. So yesterday I picked it up for the third time and got the three chapters. Heres to honesty.
“When the sorrowful winds of the east blow, I forget they are necessary.
When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.
And when I’m being crushed, I forget it’s for the sake of my preservation.”
I to want to kick and scream at times. But knowing Jesus dealt with everything we do and more, And still stayed in the will of the Father, keeps me going forward, doing my best to put my selfishness aside and seeking out what God want of me.
Some days there are so many areas which I feel are about to crush in around me. I work as a mental health therapist which is incredibly stressful. My grandfather is also in hospice, I’ll try to remember the olive tree and that hard times are necessary.
It’s helpful to focus on the fact that not even this time of crushing in my life is a waste. To focus on what God intends for me by allowing it. Rather than on trying to get out of it as fast as I can.
This teaching mDe me realize that’s the answer to my why I’m always asking God. The why me or why “good” people or whatever the case may be. God is curing us and preparing us for the mission He had for our lives. This really just touched me and opened my eyes !!!!!
Thank you so much for all of your teachings.
I was fired from a position just over a year ago. The Lord made me aware of what was happening at the time, but the emotions have been turbulent. This devotion reminded me that my circumstances in life do not define who I am in the Lord, but perhaps He will use them to bring out the best in me or perhaps He allowed the situation to “preserve” me.
What spoke to me.. “We need both winds of hardship and relief to sweep across our lives if we are to be truly fruitful.”
Life can be tough and there are events and even seasons that are Univited, but the Lord is there to help us through it all… And none of it is a surprise to Him.
The crushing times will help us become stronger than we were before … if we keep our eyes on Him. He is the vine, we are the branches.
The Lord has truly anointed you to encourage, help and mentor others.
Thank you sweet friend for being obedient to His calling!
I have been teaching a small womens group for the last 3 years. I have learned it doesn’t matter if it is one woman I am there with or 10 we are all on our journey to be faithful disciples. However, 2 months ago i was diagnosed with cervical cancer and I wasn’t able to teach this 6 week course. I would absolutely love to come back with a bang and bring uninvited as the next study! You inspire me because I know I am not alone in the way feel and think. Either way I can’t wait to do this lesson with my women study! God Bless Aprile
I just started leading this study at church tonight. Rejection is such a tough topic but this study has been a game changer for me in how I perceive it and deal with it in life! I can’t wait to see these ladies grow in their love and resting in God. I love knowing that I don’t have to rely on broke people to fill a hole only meant for God!
What a wonderful insight about how an olive must be crushed in order to produce a healing oil to give life to those who use it. I can understand now how these past difficult years have been God’s way of crushing my natural tendencies and nature. He desires me to submit to Him in everything. When I am processed, my life will express His glory, giving light and life to those around me.
My east wind came a few months ago when my boyfriend ended our little over a year relationship because he “didn’t have the same feelings anymore.” This happened just two weeks after he told me he wanted to marry me. Now, I had been through a break up before (a toxic relationship I was in at the beginning of college before I had a relationship with Christ) but the crushing weight of the rejection I felt from this breakup was unlike any pain I have ever experienced. It has been a little over three months, but I still find myself cuddled up to the “comfort” of my rejection, playing the victim card instead of walking in my identity in Christ.
“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” (Mark 14:34, NIV)
Reading that gave me chills all over. Jesus experienced soul crushing sorrow. I was so humbled by that verse as I was reading your post because there have been so many times that I have been on my face, exhausted with grief wishing that the Lord would place someone in my path that knew what I was going through. HELLO! He has been there all along!
I am so thankful for his unchanging grace, and for your heart to see women walk in freedom and love.
Your posts have stopped me from texting my husband, who was recently caught cheating. I am struggling with his actions, his forgiveness that he is seeking from me. I have had too many emotions to count but I’ve also been so angry at God, because it was like I knew the pressing had begun and that God’s not stopping till he breaks us from pride and all the other branches that weren’t baring any fruit. We both have our eyes fixed on him and some days I’m still caught in emotions but today’s scripture was like a little love note that I am where I need to be. In fulfilment of his promises for me.
Thank you Lysa for this teaching.. Often times when we go through hard times, I will think that maybe my sins or past sins have caused it.. Now I know it is necessary.. God bless.
I went to a woman’s conference with Jennifer Rothschild. While there, I put purchased your book ‘Uninvited’ with hopes of building my own self esteem and finding a good book to share with other women through a Bible study. The part about self rejection fits me. thank you for sharing the words the Lord has given to you to help other women.
I recently got done reading Uninvited. The thing that struck me was the portion about the feelings that go along not getting the job or being in the situation we think we deserve. And how much more the feelings sting when someone we know or don’t know for that matter is in the situation we wish we were in. That means God has planned that specific thing for her! Not for me. WOAH! Paradigm shift. Remembering this is totally helping me rejoice with people in their successes. I’m definitely still learning to embrace this Kingdom Mindset. The joy of celebrating with others is so marvelous. It is a reminder of how God is meticulously orchestrating each move.
I went to a woman’s conference with Jennifer Rothschild. While there, I purchased your book ‘Uninvited’ with hopes of building my own self esteem/confidence and finding a good book to share with other women through a Bible study. The part about self rejection fits me. thank you for sharing the words the Lord has given to you to help other women.
This could not have come at a better time for me. I have found a vast amount of parallels in what you post and what I am dealing with in my own life. I have even told my mom that you have been like an angel sent from above, sharing the exact message I need at the exact time I need it. Tonight’s blog was no different. I am in the midst of a pretty brutal divorce and I have two small children. They are my world and knowing how much they are hurting and suffering is beyond heartbreaking. I know there is reason and purpose for what is happening, but sometimes I get “crushed” by the weight of it all. I know the Lord has a wonderful and mighty plan in store for my babies and I, but it can be hard to keep at the forefront of my mind at times. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your blog tonight. I needed it so much and I will forevermore remind myself that I am just being “pressed” to prepare myself for his purpose and it will be revealed in due time. I will cling to this and know that He is the Almighty and he has a great plan in store for my babies and I and we will ultimately only learn and grow from this season of our lives. Thank you again!
The book and study has really help me to realize that God does really and truly love me and I don’t have to beg for scraps of love from people. he wants to give me the full meal deal.
I have also learned
This study has help me to ask myself daily am I a grasper of God’s love or a grabber for people’s love and which do I want.
This teaching is a reminder to me that beyond the pain and waiting, is God’s plan for me and not to worry about anyone’s opinion about me except Him. ⭐️
Yes this article gave me courage to keep the faith through this crushing time.
Been there and experiencing that. I love how we can look back with hindsight the froth that occurred. That’s God’s grace and mercy wrapped up together. I absolutely love the description of the olive tree. What an amazing picture!
*the growth that occurred
I feel like I’m in the crushing process right now. My heart hurts and at times, I feel utterly defeated. I know He is good, but sometimes in the midst of my pain, I forget He is in control. Reading this, I am reminded there is purpose for the pain. And that my God is control. And that He is good. Thank you, Lysa.
I needed this so very much. I’m facing hard times at this point in my life. I know with these words that you have laid out if was ment for me to read this tonight. Thank you for the words I needed so very much.
I have a member of my church who is being hit on all sides. She stepped out in faith doing the work of the Lord, and when she did all hell broke lose in her life. She has her days where she wants to give up and quit, but she continues to stand through it all. She wants God to get the glory out of her life.
Without the crushing times, we cannot move forward into the next part of God’s plan for us. Even though these times are often painful, they’re necessary for us to grow in Him. But it’s so easy to forget that. We tend to think God is punishing us or ignoring our pain, when in fact He’s refining us.
Have been pressed from all angles it feels lately. Husband diagnosed with a brain tumor in march of 2016, found out it was stage 4 melanoma that had metastasized to his brain, surgery, radiation, treatments (indefinitely), come September my aunt dies sending my 81 year old mother in a spiral downwards, all while dealing with a horrible situation where we had to leave Tom he church we had been members of for 37 years (crushing my mom even more) to where she passed away in December, taking care of my dad who has dementia and keeping an eye on him and we had to put down our beloved dog of 16 years to now having to place my dad in an Alzheimer’s care facility while still taking care of my husband who is fighting cancer… yes pressed… BUT NOT CRUSHED!!! Our God is so good! Thru this I know he is constant. God is unchanging… in my ever changing world!
O Wow I am so sorry for all you are going through xx
Thank you for sharing this Lisa!!! Your teachings and devotions are all so good but this is one of the best and something I really needed to read today! I just started reading Uninvited and shared it with a few friends as well. Thank you for being honest and vulnerable!
Being real with God about what we are enduring is so very important. I have on occasion said “Lord, my thoughts have once again condemned and betrayed me.” And yet, He has been so kind with me. I love that we can be blatantly honest with Him and not be condemned, but lovingly corrected and encouraged.
The transitioning is ugly and yet so very necessary.
Thank you Lisa for the opportunity to win this. It would be such a blessing!!
Love this analogy. As a missionary living overseas I often struggle with loneliness during the “pressing” times. Our Heavenly Father is faithful each time to carry me through when I relinquish control and just trust Him. Trust that He is Good, therefore trusting that His refining process is also Good. I desire to be a pure, precious, and fragrant oil.
Thank you for your faithfulness in the ministry! You are touching many lives with the Truth.
The unpacking of the Scripture is so profound. I am so blessed. I sit here reading this and it resonates in my spirit that all is not lost. My heart just leapt as I began to comprehend what you were expounding through the Olive. My heart has been so broken but I have never felt so alive and strong. You have lifted my spirits and I am forever grateful. Your ministry blesses me every single day, anointed Woman of God.
I just thank you so much for your ministry, Lysa. Today’s teaching really encouraged my heart as I often feel crushed by raising our six children and by broken familial relationships. Thank you for the reminder that God is faithful and he IS hope! So thankful God puts people in our lives that speak truth to us. Keep up the great work, Lysa. 🙂
I need to hear these words every day! Great book, will help so many people feel invited to be true to themselves. Hope I win!!
I never grow tired of this analogy. Life sometimes makes us feel crushed, but if we can see it through and not lose faith, something beautiful will come through if we hold tight to Christ. Thank you for this reminder.
Lysa I have recently been crushed by the weight of dealing with leukemia and a rare syndrome called sweets syndrome. At one point thought I would not survive to leave the hospital. But God promised be from the beginning that He would be my rock, my portion, that He loved me and had me firmly in his everlasting arms. He taught me in the stillness of my anxious nights when the world around me was sleeping that no matter how the burden of fighting for my life felt as if it would suffocate me he, the I Am, was there to carry the burden. I learned to be still and to hear his soft whispers of love that oohed my weary soul. Your books and devotional postings helped through this. I have been miraculously healed.
This has been a very trying week for my family on all fronts. I’ve heard this teaching about the olive tree before, but had forgotten it. The timing of me reading it today was absolutely God!
When my husband had an affair after just 4 months of marriage, I was devastated. Those crushing times pushed me into a closer relationship with the Lord, and once I surrendered my life to Him, one and a half months later I met my husband and we were married 4 months later. Yes, it was quick, but he is a godly man who adores me. We have been married 5 years this June. I know that without the failure of my marriage I wouldn’t be where I am today, praising the Lord for the tough times which have led me to some of the best times in my life. I would love to have a study pack so I can teach it the women of at my church.
I should add that I was divorced one and half years before I met my new husband.
This was an interesting read. Thank you.
This is really making me think. I’m going through several crushing processes right now, and I know that for me, that’s a reminder of how much I need Jesus. I always tend to forget once I go through one of these times, I usually come out better than I was before. This study has reminded me of that, and that all I can do is turn to Him.
Definitely being crushed right now. The pain of infertility has left me hopeless in many ways. Failed fertility treatments, multiple miscarriages, and advanced maternal age continue to weigh on my heart daily. I’m in a constant state of trying to change my thought patterns about how God can be seen in this dark chapter of my life. I often read bible passages or devotions with tears running down my face. One thing I’ve clung to is that the promise of heaven is going to be so much better than any current situation we are experiencing. I don’t want the study packet as I’ve read through some comments and feel there are others that are battling life with incredible stress and sadness. Thank you for sharing the olive leaf analogy. I needed it today. And likely tomorrow.
This book has been amazing for me. It has touched on things that are so real to me and things I thought I was alone in. Walking into rooms and feeling alone. Losing the love of my life by his choice in walking away. Feeling as though I am not worthy of gods love. Self esteem issues from my upbringing. This book really has been a god send and I always go back to it for help in my troubles. It’s like my friend who is advising me when I need to hear someone tell me it’s okay. Thank you so so much for this. In a time of utter loneliness this has pulled me though. I would love to continue this further with the other materials.
O Lysa I just love your writing. You really speak to my soul.
I am doing your Finding I AM online bible study at the moment & loving it so much.
I would love to win this bible study pack.
This study would be a blessing to do with my sisters.
Truly a warm reminder. I recently lost my mother unexpectedly. I found myself reaching the various peaks and valleys of the emotional roller coaster. I am writing this on the eve of her burial and find myself questioning the past several hours events while also praising God for the peaceful passing. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Definitely reminded me that we need both good and bad to grow in Christ.
You seem to speak right to my heart in the season I’m in
In times of sorrow and desperation, we really need God and know the truth that challenges are not the end. They are the processes that would help us in a way that could make us improve. When in hard times, frustrating times, and dissapointing times, it’s good to always trust to God and His plans for us. It is said in the bible that God has plans for us and He will not leave us nor forsake us. This could encourage us to always trust that hard times would end and God will always be with us. We should always persevere and be faithful enough to endure the hard times in life.
Thank you for the message. As a student, there are also hard times for me and I want to always put my mind to God rather than being stressed of the things to be done. I find spending time with Him in my busy days as helpful in keeping my mind on the right track that is hopeful of His plans. Thank you!
I really need this study
I’m right there. My son is going through a very hard time. He is feeling perplexed, crushed, discouraged and defeated. I would appreciate your prayers. His name is Brad. This piece really spoke to me. Thank you.
Teresa
The Olive Tree is a wonderful reminder from God. I have been crushed both in a physical and emotional way, but I survived and am so much stronger physically and in my faith. God is faithful and His plan is so much more than we can ever imagine. I have a friend who is being crushed in every way possible right now. I’d love to share this with her.
The Olive Tree is a wonderful reminder from God. I have been crushed both in a physical and emotional way, but I survived and am so much stronger physically and in my faith. God is faithful and His plan is so much more than we can ever imagine. I have a friend who is being crushed in every way possible right now. I’d love to share this with her.
The olive tree needing the harsh west wind and the life-giving east wind to bear fruit is a very relevant concept for me. This has been a crushing time for me the last few years, but also a time of much fruit. I would rather grow and bear fruit than hang out in the shade and be stunted. I’ve felt “stunted” and “held back” for years. Coming out into the light and exposing the lies of the enemy over my heart, mind and my life – and looking for other people who believe in Jesus to be absolutely authentic with has changed my life.
Thank you for your encouraging words. Crushing times and trusting God.
Needed these reminders today.
I am learning it is through these “crushing” times that God is truly transforming us into who He really wants us to be.
Thank you, Lysa. This explains how I keep going with the “pressing” God has brought in my life. As a women’s ministry leader, many of or ladies need to hear this, too. We are always amazed at how God brings exactly what we all need and we are thinking Uninivited isour next bible study. Thanks for your faithfulness to our Lord.
This was exactly what I needed to read right now. Walking through a difficult marriage, has left me feeling crushed on many days. This picture of the olive branch literally has me in tears. I am excited to just meditate on this today. Your book Uninvited, was given to me and continues to bless me beyond words.
This is so timely!!! It is so easy to forget and start to feel sorry for ourselves. But, we need this in order to be preserved and transformed. I have just entered a crushing time…. my husband has been diagnosed with cancer and is only 51. I have to remind myself not daily, but hourly that God is with us. He has a plan. I have to trust him. Ultimately, this is for His good and I look forward to seeing what good will come of this. I don’t look forward to the pain that my husband will be going through, but I am trying to focus on the otherside of the new journey we are on. Thank you so much for inspiration!
Going through a difficult time that could be crushing. But God is showing me a new way to be…the way to live with dependence on Him…when I face people in this small community I can do it with confidence, giving them my face. Even though I fear facing them and have feelings of shame and humiliation, God is teaching me to walk in the fullness of his unconditional love. Even though being crushed is so painful for me and my family, I do trust it is for my preservation and I know Ibwont be destroyed. Thank you for this book and Bible Study. It is helping me through a potentially crushing time.
Dear Lysa I want to thank you for sharing as you do. The Lord is using you in such a powerful way. I first was drawn to your Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl. Inside my bible I wrote your words and spoke them in prayer everyday.. God I want to see you God I want to hear you God I want to know you so that I can follow hard after you every day! I didn’t do this study Uninvited but I do have the First5 app and did Luke and I’m now doing Finding I Am .. oh what joy He is filling my soul I am trying to introduce you to the ladies of my small little church. I pray for each one daily lifting them up by name. There are 15 of us I pray for us to be unified to come together in His love You are coming to Florence, SC the end of March there are 3 of us coming to hear you I’ve reserved 5 seats so hoping 2 more will join This study would be something these ladies could connect with .. I see each one of us as an olive squeezed by all sides pressured on all sides but still an olive .. a better olive They have had hard times and are still going strong. I’m rambling.. thank you for listening and hoping you might consider our little church of Harris Creek Baptist Church in Society Hill, SC to see where God wants them to be in their walk with Him as women in love with the Lord. Thank you for your time To God be the Glory
I am just starting to attempt to lead a Bible study this fits right in with our topic of adversity and how it is necessary to help us grow. We so wish to avoid all adversity yet it is just such a necessary part of becoming better and more pure in Jesus. This would be great to win for my Bible Study!
Thank you! I have 3 children…Ages 4,3 and 1. This past April my children and I had to leave my husband/their dad due to abuse, neglect, and infidelity. This was/is very hard and a long road being a single mom of 3 little ones. My husband has been awarded overnights so they are with them half the week. It is hard for me to understand but I take comfort in knowing my God is Sovereign. Thank you for another way to think about my struggles. I have always taken comfort in these verses but never knew about the olive tree and how my life needs to relate. Thank you for allowing God to use you to minister to women like me.
Such a beautiful picture of becoming more of a delight through pressure.
This book is pointing out to me that when I don’t fit in, I’m standing out. When I’m standing alone, I’m actually not alone!
I am in a crushing time right now. I’m separated from an abusive husband, living w a good Christian gf, no job, but attending school for medical coding as this was the only door God opened for me, and no relationship w my son bc he thinks I’m nuts for leaving my husband, and the first time I’ve basically nothing materially in my adult life. But, I believe God is with me and is helping me. It’s just very very rough right now. Today I go for a mammogram bc I had stage 1 breast cancer a couple years ago. I’m in Kansas City where I lived for many years before getting married. They have all my disks from where I moved and everything was fine in August of last year but now this nurse practioner says she felt something a little different on the unaffected breast that was small but different than the rest of my breast. I had ultrasound and 3D mammograms before I left 5 months ago so wasn’t expecting this. Just going for my 6 month screening & now I hear this. I feel like I can’t take one more thing! Plz pray for me…thank you so much!
Thank you for this. I DO feel crushed right now, trying to seek the Lord in it- knowing there’s a plan… but oh how I pray it might be over soon.
So needed this reminder, and do everyday. Thank you.
Thank you for putting into words what I have been feeling lately. I knew that what I was going through would have a beautiful strengthening outcome if I kept my eyes on Jesus and Praised Him for leading each step of the way for His glory.
This blessing came at the right time, as I am being “pressed” in dealing with my husbands infidelity. Our Christian counselor & the powerful Grace of God are carrying me right now.
Only reason I haver survived.❤️
..survived, the crush….
Oh how I love this. This is just what I needed today. Things have not been going well the last two week, and I am feeling the weight and the pressure of being crushed. Your lesson summed it up in such an uplifting and beautiful way that we need these times in our lives. For if we did not go through hard times what would we learn. I will remember cor 2 4:8_9 as I go on my way today and know that most important God is with me and is surrounding me with his presence.
I read the book last year and would enjoy facilitating a group going through it! We have been going through some “pressing” situations as parents. Thank you for reminding me of truth.
I appreciate the open and real way you share your journey. I was blessed so much with Craving God and Unglued. Unglued came at a time when life seemed lowest. God used this study to transform mutt was odd thinking and reacting, which in turn helped to restore my marriage and my children’s relationship with their father. Thank you. Keep keeping it real and faithful to Him. I look forward to this study when God decides it’s time for me to listen. ?
Wow. What a major enlightenment!! I grew up being told that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. That we as Christians should expect to be persecuted. Thinking of this as being pressed in preparation for preservation and perfection really lifts my spirits. Though the pain of my illness never goes away I know the steps I take today will be a little easier. Thank you!! God bless.
Lysa, you are such a blessing. I am constantly encouraged when I read your books and quotes. I read Uninvited cover to cover and found so much healing. Thank you. I loved this imagery of the olive tree. I always find it helpful to learn through analogies. Thank you for the reminder that crushing times can be growing times; we need only to change our perspective. Blessings to you. Continue to carry His work!
Oh how my heart needs this! With so much heartache and many “crushing times” , especially right now in my life, it is uplifting to rest in the truth that HE really does have a plan and purpose. It seems like such a blanket answer during hard times.. but to KNOW that He is good, He is God and that those seasons (this season) of crushing are for our refinement because he loves us so deeply provides more hope to keep pressing foward.. to the prize of becoming more like Him! Thank you for this reminder and lesson Lysa!
This post reminds me of how God makes beutiful things from difficult or bitter times. It is His favorite thing to do with His kids. I will use the olive tree just like you said alone its bitter and cant be used. But if it goes through a process it becomes useful for oil. God does the same thing for us. One time I was praying during a difficult time in my life. God spoke to me that your struggle and greats weeknes will become your ministry. It has become so true I haven’t always had the easiest life but God has turned that into a platform for ministry by allowing to become a mental health counselor. Through this training I am reciving now I am able to help people make olive oil from their bitter olives. Thank you for this reminder. Its easy to forget everything that happened is for our good and can be redeemed if we allow Good to do it.
My crushing time has been the last 3 years. My husband was diagnosed with a rare genetic disease in 2008, since I was a nurse, I knew that there was a possibility that this disease could disable him or kill him. I started back to school for my BSN in 2010, once both of my babies started school. Once I completed my BSN, I kept going so I could get my doctorate and become a nurse practitioner. My hope was that he would stay well enough for me to get through with school, but that was not how it worked out. In 2014, he had a hospitalization, and was never well enough to return to work. To accommodate my clinical schedule for school I had to return to floor nursing so I could get enough hours to support my family on one income. I am thankful I had the ability to work those hours and prevent further hardship on my family, but 60+ hours a week away from home and working every other weekend started me on my most crushing period of my life so far. I went from being able to go to church every Sunday and Wednesday, to barely being able to go every other Sunday, and only a couple of Wednesday’s per month. My husband often did not feel up to leaving the house, so I had a hard time getting my children to church while I was as work. His depression over no longer being able to provide has been rough. I had to struggle to find time to be there for my kids. However, there was one blessing in my husband being sick, now he was home to watch the kids while I was gone. One of the hardest things was how out of fellowship I felt. Our congregation is small, 30 people, they knew I had to work and why, but I felt like they had left me drift away. I am not sure how to minister to shift workers best, but it is lonely being away. I look too my personal bible study to keep me connected. I will graduate in May, I pray that when I finally get settled in my new role I can get back to fellowship, but until then…
I’ve always related to the “refining of gold through fire” when going through a valley time… Sometimes I felt it just didn’t fit my circumstances-I didn’t feel the purpose of the life event was to refine my faith…now I think perhaps it was for the purpose of making sure bitterness didn’t take root. I’m having such a time now. Thank-you for listening to ‘The Voice’ and shedding light on me.
This study and book has been so great and beneficial to me! I have been reading Uninvited and I am almost finished. Every time I open the book it is like it was written specifically for me. Today’s reading was to great in paralleling our pain and work to that of the olive branch. What an amazing comparison! Something that symbolizes peace and beauty in the end, goes through such a process and exhaustion to get to that point. It brings such encouragment for the future!
There is beauty in the breaking – breaking of bitterness and things not of God so more of Him and less of me can become true in my life. Break me Lord!
I feel most crushed when I’ve been offended or confronted – even when I deserve it! Oh my heavens, I can just be so emotional all while forgetting God is trying to get my attention to fall on Him every. single. time this happens. Yet, I freak out and forget He’s there to “preserve” me through these moments.
Thank you for your reminder – I’d love to dig deeper in this study <3
I would love a bible study package. I am crushed with illness, overwork and obligations. I’m discouraged because no matter what I do to change the circumstances, no matter how much I pray it’s not better. It’s been years of this. I’m losing hope
I have really been learning the meaning of trusting God the last few months. In the struggle I have been learning about perseverance and how good God truly is. Hardship has brought growth and I am not sure it would have happened with out the struggle.
“For the olive to be edible, it has to go through a lengthy process that includes:
washing,
breaking,
soaking,
sometimes salting,
and waiting some more.
Yes it is a lengthy process.
When I go through hard times, what gets me through is this. Regardless what has been done to me, whether who is right or wrong, God is revealing what is in my heart. What I do from there is up to me. I can hold on to it and react off the wrongdoing or I can respond to the Father with repentnece and let him take the dross out of my heart. I keep my eyes off of the person and listen to what God is doing in me. It speeds up the process!! Lol! Its not a fun place to be. I have visited it far too many times, and I know faced with adversity times like this will come once again. But I have hope because I know who holds my future.
We all have been touch by rejection in some sort of way. I am looking forward to this, and sharing it with my small group!! This is going to be a great read!!
“It is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness.”
Yes a lengthy process…. I love this!!! Prepared for USEFULNESS! ❤?
This book and study has been on my mind. I feel like I’m called to do it. You enlighten me every time I read you and it stays with me. It opens my eyes to a way to see things. If I win I would donate it to my church for a group study. Thank u for the opportunity!
These are great words! I am so glad that God loves us enough to not leave us as we are. I want to change and be preserved for His purposes.
Thank you for the reminder and these thoughtful and encouraging words. I was in Israel many years ago and went to the Garden of Gethsemane. It is a peaceful place. I got why Jesus would retreat to that place to replenish. The olive tree is a beautiful analogy and a good way to describe the process we must go through. Last year I went through one of the hardest pressings in my life and to be honest, I’m still recovering from that. It is a daily process. God has me in a period of transition right now where he is teaching me to be completely reliant on Him and Him alone. I refuse to be bitter, but sometimes I struggle to find the joy in all of this. So I find myself retreating to that quiet place with Jesus seeking restoration.
Thank you, Lysa, for this truth. Recently, I’ve been struggling with feeling ” uninvited.” I moved away from home and began life in a new city. It’s been almost three years, and there is still that comraderie piece that is missing. Women with whom I am friendly plan group outings and don’t invite me. They post on social media, and every time, I am crushed.
Your post made me realize that maybe it’s not about being left out. Maybe these uninvited moments are moments of protection, that my heart stays guarded just a bit longer. Maybe they are for growing in trust, that one day I’ll be doing the inviting, welcoming the ones who feel like me – uninvited.
It’s shifting from a “woe is me; I have no friends” attitude, to a “let me be a friend despite my current feelings” attitude.
Thank you.
Wow. The east and west winds. That’s amazing, because God’s Word says as far as the east is from the west, so great is His love for us. Even in the winds of hardship, there is His love. I have to ask myself, am I resting in Him? God is God and He is good. No. Matter. What.
Love this analogy!!! It is great to know that even in our hardest times, the Lord is with us. I have been through many hardships and wanted to give up, but I knew the Lord laid those burdens on my heart to make me stronger!
Thank you so much for your commitment to God’s Word and to speaking truth. These words were much needed for the days, weeks, and months I’ve been walking through. Thank you God that crushing isn’t the olive’s end.
We walk by faith not by sight! The winds will come, we just need to be rooted so we can withstand any wind that blows our way. My son has been struggling with addiction for several years. He just finished a year at a Christian rehab and is going back as an intern. Through this journey we have been pressed but we never lost sight of God! Through this journey with our son our faith in God has grown. God is good!
This teaching reminded me that the hard times are necessary — they are ways to draw me nearer to Christ and learn (or relearn) and reinforce His truths. They are also necessary for refining me, exposing those areas in my life where I must take action to become more of the woman He calls me to be.
What stood out the most from this devotion was that the hard times are necessary. They (if we let them) are HIS way of drawing us closer to HIM. Through these times we can lean to lean on HIM !!!
This study was so refreshing and at times difficult! The crushing times in my life I never looked at as times of preservation, necessity or processing – but when I started to see those moments in life where that rejection still lingered – it made me really look at the situation, bring it to the surface to see it for what it was – and I see that God’s hand of preservation was on me even then – keeping me from deeper hurt and what could have been a devastating blow in so many ways. I thought I was over those “times of hurt and rejection” and when I started this study, I didn’t really know what it would do for me but I do so enjoy Lysa’s teaching and studies and after reading The Best Yes, I knew that this would be one I had to read, I thought, something would touch me and enable me to help another woman who needed it – surely, that is why I was reading it to help someone else. In reality, as I was reading each chapter, these past emotions resurfaced showing their ugly head again and forced me to really deal with that unresolved hurt that was still manifesting in my life. I am SO thankful for this study and I have already spoken about this study with other women in my church (I am a youth pastor wife) and they have all said “Hey, you should lead a group of ladies with this study!” ME?!?! I couldn’t possibly – but I have learned that we all have something that has happened in our lives that we can offer up to give encouragement, help and healing. What a beautiful study! What a necessary study! Thank you Lysa, for again ministering to me and countless other women!
I may be down, but not for the count. God is on my side and He always comes out on top. Through Him I am victorious!
Lysa,
Thanking God for using you to touch my heart with His wisdom, love and goodness at just the perfect time. I love this teaching about the olive and I would like to facilitate a group with your new book.
I’d love to have this to read with my mom. She is struggling so bad with the loss of both her parents, and two siblings in such a short time frame. She tries so hard to fix everything for everyone and has just wore herself out. I’d love to read this with her and see how God restores her
My friends and I have decided to do a Bible study together and this book is our first one of the New Year. We are so excited to start this study. We all feel the sting of being uninvited and the sting of rejection. We all need to find ways to cope and handle it the way God wants us to.
I read the book (well most of it!!) and saw some of the video’s but would love to do the study and offer it to our church. I didn’t see myself as rejected or uninvited, but after reading the book I realized I have labeled myself as ignored at times, insecure, anxious and those all came from the same hurt place that uninvited addressed! Thank you Lysa for your incredible talent and allowing God to use you to speak to us!
I love your writing, so deeply based in the Word and so descriptive. I love your analogy of the olive being crushed to release the best part. So often, when we are “crushed” the best part is NOT what comes out! I’d love to read your book and find out how to make our best come out.
A little more than three years ago, my daughter felt she had no use for me. She just stopped pretending to love me. it was because I would no longer, after 71/2 years of being her financial crutch, babysitter, and chief cook and bottle washer for free and with constant criticism and told her I would not do it anymore. If she had given me a chance I would have told her I loved her and my 2 precious, beautiful granddaughter more than what we were becoming. Enemies. The constant bickering and nagging on both sides created a hostile atmosphere that made us not want to be around one another. I knew we needed help, but unfortunately, all she heard was I would not be the person she controlled by dangling my precious loves over me like a reward for complying with her wishes. There is nothing more painful a mother will know than to lose your child ( and your only grandchildren) suddenly. I thought I would die..and God Almighty knew that was all I wanted too. But he wouldn’t let me. I know I haven’t fulfilled my purpose, so I must push forward. At times, I have felt pushed down and pressed with no hope of ever surviving. When I would fall it was always God who picked me up, dusted me off and set me back on His righteous path. I still miss them beyond words. I still cry hot bitter tears. I still pray and beg God for the restoration of my family. I still trust Him when He sends the winds from both sides when He presses me for preservation. My God, my Lord, my Savior will always be what I need. Even when it hurts. Because eternity in heaven, free evermore from pain is where I strive to be. Thank you.
I love to find the hidden treasures in God’s word and how God uses everything including His creation to teach us life lessons.
Gina
Thank you for opening the Word today by using the olive tree as your teaching model. The analogy and application is just what I needed!
Excelllent analogy of the Olive tree. Every word spoke to my heart. Thank you.
My “group of girls” were trying to decide what will be our next study. I prayed that He would give me wisdom. Woke up this morning to read and found this. My answer. Thank you. Looking forward to seeing all of us grow through your words. Many prayers.
This spoke volumes to me today. I’m being crushed from all sides (my father recently died, my child has been diagnosed with arthritis, I’m dealing with a chronic illness, and now I’m struggling with being miserable at my job due to some horribly negative personalities that I have to deal with daily. I’ve reach the point where I no longer can cry or feel – just surviving day to day. I’m currently doing the “Finding I AM” Bible study and have found great strength in the ‘daily bread’ lesson.
Lysa,
This was exactly what I needed to read today. I have felt as if my world was closing in on me from all sides lately. One of biggest struggles has been with one of my daughters. I too need to remember that the harsh wind, pressing and crushing are all necessary.
Thank you for the amazing words of encouragement.
Anita Lockhart
I invested my life into my family. I trusted my husband and he ripped my heart out. Simply put, one day, I entered the living room and was utterly confused when all the furniture was ‘just gone’! My 17 year-old son look down and said, ‘I didn’t know when he was leaving.’ My son walked away saying he had to go see his dad. My son abandoned me at the time I was crushed by my husband.
He had been dating outside of the marriage for four years’. He had proposed to another woman. My husband was able to convince our son to keep the entire event silent. He tells tall tales that I a mental illness.
With this background only 6 years’ ago and still alone and abandoned this study has value to study. I would cherish the opportunity to do this gifted study on the Garden of Gethsemane.
I feel it every day. Lost my job part because of my health but mostly because of being bullied. Could sure use some encouragement. I’m not dealing with these changes so late in my life very well.
Oh my gracious how this is here for me!! I feel as though Satan is trying to crush me! I am feeling the winds from every different direction there is! But God is not letting me give up! What an awesome God He is! Even when I feel like I can’t take anymore, He does remind me He is not done yet! It has been the hardest battle, but I refuse to give up even when it seems as though I should! I have not been happy through this process and I don’t understand at all! But God is so in the midst of it- just that gives me hope! Thank you for this! You seem to have a way of speaking right to my heart, which is no coincidence! May God continue to bless you and use your words to bless others like me!!
Thank you. I had never heard this analogy before using the olive. How perfect, how incredible that God wastes not one of His creations to illustrate to us His Biblical truths and the redemption He has for each of us. Over the past two years, my heart has felt crushed beyond repair, much less redemption because of a broken relationship with my adult son. It is a long story with much despair and at times bitterness. Some days I could only cry out a few words to my heavenly Father. “Strengthen my heart, O Lord.” It is all I could muster. I am going through the process and I am leaning in close to my God. There is still distance between my son and I. There are days I still weep, but I am not destroyed.
I lead a small group of women in Bible study. I know I am not alone in the struggles this life often gives us. I long to minister to their hurts as we all walk out our faith, growing together. I would love to win one of your books, study guide and DVD series so that I can share it within my group. I would be honored if you would consider it. Thank you!
Oh, Lysa, you have been used by God to,yet again, touch that place in my spirit that needed His touch. I’m going to get my bottle of Olive Oil out of the kitchen cabinet and set it out on the counter… …I need constant reminding… Then I’m going to call my friend to discuss getting a few of us together to do this study together. She and I have both bought the book and been blessed by it… How can we not share this with others?
Dear Lysa:
Is it difficult to open your eyes and see how many women are and have crushes time?
I’m one of those who has believed in crushes times, since I had been here living in America for 17 years now how many people had passed away on my parents sight, they are still living at home ( in Colombia) God has been there with them watching 24/7.
Now I’m grieving my mother in law’s passed away last December… I had good mementos with her… She’s a Godly soul still besides that I’m grieving for my parents friends whom had known me since I was a little girl…
Thank you so much for being with the Lord I’m still following you on your teaching and learning tips how to deal with crushes times, God bless, Lucia
I really like this… “crushing isn’t the olive’s end.” That there’s hope even in turmoil, frustration, and rejection. God’s taking us on a journey of being the better us, even though it doesn’t feel like it.
This is encouraging to know that even Jesus was crushed. He has been there and it takes these times in life in order for us to become useful to God and His Kingdom. I absolutely love “Uninvited”. I read it and related to so many things that you talked about. I cried at times reading it out loud to hear it. I love that book! Thank you for taking the time to pen your experiences for the sake of helping others for the Glory of God. Thank you a million times!
I love your teaching. Thank you for allowing yourself to be a vessel.
This book has been like you are inside me and the way I have been feeling. My dad left when I was 10 and even before his drug addiction and alcohol addiction was very much hard to handle. The emotional and verbal abuse from him was so hard. For many years I would never open up to anyone or face my actual fears, problems, and I definitely would never stand up for myself because I did not feel worth it. He spoke words that I was not worth anything and I was a mistake and failure. For many years I believed that. Rejection is so hard to deal with and still deal with. I am so thankful for my mom who everyday tried so hard to make feel worth it and made sure I knew Jesus. The love of Jesus has been so overwhelming and this book has definitely helped open my eyes to know someone knows that heart.
I can hardly wait to share this with our new foster daughter Shyanne. She is 15 and has not only been thru some horrific experiences with her family, but she has also been in some less than desirable foster homes. It is our hope and our prayer to give her a new life and a new hope for her future, and we are seeking God’s guidance every step of the way. She has been “crushed” so many times, but we know God has preserved her for a future that he has planned for her!
I, too, need this reminder…sometimes daily.
With two foster kids it’s hard to not feel crushed from time to time. Sometimes for myself, sometimes for them. My foster daughter I will have until she is of age to leave or decides to, but my great nephew who has autism should go home this summer maybe. Already dreading that crush!!!! I’m looking for ways now to start to deal with it.
Dear Lysa,
“The Crushing Times” is my most favorite blog that you have ever written. It is so special to me and I have shared it many times with others. What a beautiful description of how I often feel as I go through the struggles and heartbreaks of life. Crushed but not destroyed.
I would love to have this set to share with my daughter and her friends. I was introduced to the book in a neighborhood ladies group. As I would share with my friends how good the book was, they wanted me to lead another group through the book. As I watch the ladies inviting more ladies to our group, I see how it is touching everyone the way it did me. Now, I would like to share with my teenager and her friends in my home, and feel like the whole set, and not just the book, would help me facilitate that group in my home.
Ellie Smith
I am loving having recently moved to Nashville with my family, after ten years in New England, where Christians weren’t very welcome. Significant crushing happened. But I am able to see how God is using all of these trials, and turning them into treasures. Our new church, Cross Point, has also been through some crushing lately. Would love to do this as a mom’s study.
I have been married only 6 months and have been crushed deeply by my own husband. This isn’t what I thought marriage would be like but I know that I must remain firm in the Lord and rest in Him. I know that I must remain respectful and loving despite not feeling like it. This is helping me to see that despite pain and trials, I am reserved and preserved by God. Through this storm, He will be glorified if I remain in Him.
Lysa thank you for your transparency. My daughter is 13 and is struggling with friendships, school, emotions and the usual teen” girl struggles. I am always on the hunt for ways to encourage her along side God’s word. This post is the perfect visual as to why God allows these struggles in our lives. Praising God for His gift to you which encourages us?
I know the cruishing produces good in me but all I can think at the time is that my life is ebbing from me.and at the same time, it softens and heals the hardness in me
Feeling pressed, but not crushed, today. Thank you for this insightful and timely devotional!
My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” (Mark 14:34, NIV).
I often wake up with a spirit or sorrow..not really knowing the root of it… But i do in essences. Jesus felt this way too..for the lost. Knowing he felt the same way and then how he works to getting that flipped and filled with God.
Stepping away from it all and praying to our Heavenly Father is best to solving and fixing the root issuse.
I just started reading this book last week. Before I was out of the first chapter, I was in tears. How could a book be so close to my own story without me writing it. I immediately felt a bond with the writer. So much buried pain and truth has been brought to the surface. And the healing is beginning.
There aren’t enough thank yous in this world to show my love and appreciation for sharing your story so close to so many.
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Thank you so much for sharing this hope-filled message of love to hurting women.
Crushed. Not destroyed. I can relate! Positive words, great message. Thanks!
Thank. You Lysa for this study & teaching; I gave both my book and study guide away last week at our Women’s bible study. Happy to see others receiving this powerful message!
Thank you, Lysa, for posting these ideas about being crushed. I have been fighting a chronic disease for 8 years, and just last year we discovered that one of our five children has the same disease. I have learned SO much from spending time with Jesus in these terribly painful, confusing, and crushing times. I am grateful for His care in the pain and for His work in my soul through the avenue of suffering. And now, I find myself able to offer sympathy, hope, and guidance to my daughter as she struggles daily to do very normal 18-year-old tasks.
As I reach for the olive oil to create our next meal, I look forward to remembering your timely words of encouragement, that God Himself is creating eternal fruit in us during these terribly difficult seasons.
Blessings to you!
I forget that Jesus was rejected too…lost friends and neighbors….He knows exactly how it feels to be “not wanted” . This is a very good teaching!
Teaching a ladies’ Bible class for thirteen years has brought many into my life who are going through a “crushing” like olives. What a blessing and a joy to have the teaching materials to be able to share with the women who are hungry for the Word!
I am presently doing the “Finding I Am” study personally, and it is such a rich study in knowing Christ!
What a great analogy to help remind us of the blessings we have when God allows us to go through trials and struggles in life. I know that it has been in times of trials when I study His word the deepest and when I feel His presence the most. He has carried me over and over again this past year. My heart breaks for those who don’t have a personal relationship with Christ and who miss out on the peace and joy He brings.
“This was one of the biggest “aha” moments for me standing in the shadow of the olive tree: crushing isn’t the olive’s end.” I needed this in a desperate way. Thank you so much for sharing your heart always. These last few years have been difficult, and the last few months have been heart crushing at times. But this is not my end. This will not be how my story ends. The best is still to come :).
In my 45 years I have been through abuse, belittlement, heartbreak, cancer, loss, and depression. I have never looked at all that as positive, as it has developed me into being who I am…and who I am is a constant work in progress. Thank you for these words, they have been forwarded to my sister (whose unwanted divorce was finalized 4 days ago) and my Pastor whose deep caring for his ministry will ensure that many benefit from this guidance. Your work speaks to me deeply, and for that I wanted to say thank you.
Thank you for sharing this great message!
This study made so much in my life come so clear. I struggle with anxiety on a daily basis and sometime I just want to be a couch potato and not do a thing. However, this perspective we get when thinking about he olive tree give me hope. Hope and faith in God that He is here with us always and everything happens for a reason. Those hard and crushing points in our life will help shape us as a child of God. I have faith in God that everything will work out.
WOW, so timely for me. My marriage has been a struggle and God is showing me that the struggle was not all about my husbands choices. It was also about me and my need to control and have things the way I thought they should be. I am learning and God is healing me and my marriage. Thank you for you honesty, it helps more than you know. I am doing the “Finding I Am ” online study and it is great. Thanks again for you words of truth and wisdom from God.
WOW! The crushing times are necessary times. This is so TRUE! So many people think that if you are in God’s favor, this won’t happen. OUCH! Has had me warring back and forth that I have been doing something wrong for way too many years, Craziness. I have gone through some severe abandonment issues, abuse in my childhood AND in my marriage. Caused me too shut down emotionally in the worst way. I told God I would be willing to go through anything. Never imagined what was in store for me. I was only half human, if that makes any sense. Very thick wall was built just to survive. Sometimes it has been really difficult to distinguish the abuse from what I have needed to go through to be set free. Not exactly how many Christians told me it would be. Have enough faith and He sets you free QUICKLY! Hmmmm. Has not worked for me. The promise He has given me is that He will NEVER leave me and it is NOT forever. Something I have to really focus on.
I try hard not to cry at my desk at work, but your words today have released the tears from my soul. I feel crushed…I feel like I can’t survive this. But you have spoke to my heart to tell me I will survive this, and be better for it. I cling to Jesus, as my tears flow. thank you Lysa – I did not know this about the olive.
(and I have bitten into a raw one…it did make me sick!)
Had a crushing moment last night. This devo gave me the perspective that May this will be ok.
What an absolutely beautiful analogy. The phrase that imprinted God’s truth on me most is: “crushing isn’t the olive’s end.” This is so true; it’s what many of us need to be reminded of – the trial, the challenge, the heartbreak – THOSE are not the end. God is not finished with me. He is finishing me, though, for His work, His glory. Thank you for allowing God to speak through your words and share much-needed wisdom daily.
I had never heard about the olives either till I read your book. I’m hooked on your teachings and I would love to be able to share the study guides too. Thanks for always being an authentic voice of hope that always steers us to the absolute truth.
… crushing is not the end…
That touched my heard right now!
It is so good to read today!
Thank you!
Overwhelmed and dealing with feelings of not being good enough, however, I do know the TRUTH… that I am. I would love this study material to lead a study with other women who need to hear this message.
I’ve been enduring the “east winds” for quite some time now, and am just beginning to see glimpses of the “west winds” of life and restoration. This analogy of the olive tree, of eig pressed but not crushed, speaks into every nook and cranny of my being right now. There have been times recently where I’ve felt like I was being crushed, but there has always been some deeper understanding, no matter how minuscule at times, the God would never crush me. Now I have this visual of being pressed but not crushed to think of during the extremely difficult times! Thank you!
Lysa–Praise God for using your teaching to glorify Him and to encourage your sisters-in-Christ!
Several of us are involved in a bible study ministry at the Swannanoa Women’s Correctional Facility in NC! We used your study guides and DVD for Twelve Women of the Bible! I particularly enjoyed the Woman at the Well and Martha–the two women to whom Jesus revealed the truth of His Messiahship! We are still quoting you on the Messiah turning our messes into messages.
We are waiting for approval from the Correctional Facility Chaplain for your study of Uninvited! We would be thrilled to receive some of the study books and DVD if God so Wills!
Thank you for your Holy Spirit Led ministry!
BlessIngs always in Christ
Martha
I looooved this! In times of trouble and persecution we get the joy of knowing God is growing us, refining us, shaping us into a more perfect version of ourselves… the version he already sees. Thank you for drawing this picture today! I needed it.
I need this right now. I am, have been, crushed for so L ng now, and i know more is coming. It always does. I know God is good, all the time. I know the crushing is preparing me for something, something better, but it never seems to stop! I know God is molding me, shaping me, but sometimes it just feels like I can’t get the enemy to leave me alone!! After losing my father, my Daddy, in August I feel crushed beyond anything. I’m so broken. I know it’s “normal”, but I don’t like this normal. I want to heal, to feel peace, comfort & joy.
I was having a rough day. I recently moved and I’m not acclimating as quickly as I hoped to my new area and job. I saw that a friend had a picture of your book “Uninvited” on facebook and it led me here. Your post yesterday really hit home for me. I need to always remember that all things take time and effort. Everything is a process and that that process includes some good things and some bad things. Some things are easy and some are difficult. I need to to be patient with the process and remember that all things happen in God’s timing. Thank you! I can’t wait to purchase your book!
I need this right now. I am, have been, crushed for so Long now, and i know more is coming. It always does. I know God is good, all the time. I know the crushing is preparing me for something, something better, but it never seems to stop! I know God is molding me, shaping me, but sometimes it just feels like I can’t get the enemy to leave me alone!! After losing my father, my Daddy, in August I feel crushed beyond anything. I’m so broken. I know it’s “normal”, but I don’t like this normal. I want to heal, to feel peace, comfort & joy.
For so long I was taught (or misunderstood) that if I followed all the rules that nothing hard would happen in my life. Then when the crushing times came I had to wonder “what am I doing to deserve this?”
I’m so glad for good teaching that makes sense of hard times and helps me look behind the hard to what God wants to do in me. Blessings to you as you continue to teach Truth!
Wow! Crushed to be useful! I’m going through some major life changes even tho I don’t feel crushed I’m trusting God completely for the outcome. In it all I want to be useful for his kingdom!
I think this bundle would be perfect to study. I’ve struggled for years with insecurity, worrying how people feel or think about me. God says it’s time for all of us to step out of this false identity and step into all he is calling us too.
This really touched me about the bitterness part of the Olive being removed. I have multiple older women in my life who are bitter and I so long and have prayed not to be. And just the connection between my trials taking out the bitterness even when I feel so distraught and crushed through them, is a beautiful thought. I’m going to have to think more about this with all the trials I’m facing
I have felt so crushed many times. I loved where you said, “The crushing times are preservation times.” I have found that to be true through hard times, I needed to completely come back to concentrate on God to be preserved.
I really enjoyed reading this it gave me great insight on how when God gives us a vision we have to be patient and go through the process just as the olive before it can be eaten. The analogy of the Olive tree and the way you wrote this it is very inspiring and caused me to go back and read it over again.
“We need both winds of hardship and relief to sweep across our lives if we are to be truly fruitful.” This really spoke to me and gave me peace in knowing that in order to be fruitful I have to go through some hardships.
Dear Lysa:
Your teachings always come at the right time. Crushed, only the word hurts, because pain comes to our mind, I’ve been crushed so many times in the past 365 days, but never though how something good could come out of being crushed… I’m usually asked to be strong but ha! It’s hard to be strong when you feel crushed to the point that you feel all the strength inside you leaking through the wound inside yout heart.
Thank you for your comforting words and the reminder that Jesus went through a lot of suffering and it was all for me! I need to look at my situation through the example of the word rather than through the inviting voice of cronic sadness.
I am in the midst of a crushing time (of sorts) and am so happy it’s not the end. Thank you for this reminder.
I just went through a season of my life that I would call my “olive” experience. Just within the past couple of months I’ve been able to see the value in this time. I’m seeing why I had to go through it. It’s such a convicting thought, It’s for a purpose and it hurts sometimes. The end result is something so satisfying.
This was eye opening for me. To think of myself as an ‘olive’. Being pressed and treated, prepared and readied for what life brings. God is so good. Even the idea of him creating the olive tree just to remind of us of what we must go through to become something more is incredible to me. Thank you for your teaching and speaking to my heart.
This was such a great reminder. I have so wanted to just throw my hands up in the air and give up because of my current circumstances. You reminded me that God is still working on this “storm”.
So thankful that we will come through the crushing process better, and not bitter. That all pressing and suffering is for an eternal purpose. And that we don’t walk this journey alone. Thank you for sharing your heart and vulnerabilities — As I’ve said before, Lysa, you are a mentor “from afar” to me.
Dear Lysa, my friend and I just started one of your studies. It’s the first for me. I love her advice, her outlook, the way she writes and her spiritual cravings. I like to learn more. ?
I started reading Uninvited just yesterday after several friends suggested it. Four years ago, I got married and moved 2 1/2 hours from my home city, to the small town where my husband lived (and was born & raised). The people here (at church & in general) are friendly on the surface, but have not been very welcoming. I have literally people tell me about their groups of friends, and how much fun they have, and then in the next breath had them tell me they don’t have any room for new people. As the title of your book says, by not being from here, or having any family here, I have felt very alienated & Uninvited. I had started to grow bitter, and had given up even trying to have any friendships here because – after years of personal rejection – I did not feel worthy. I have slowly made some friends – all of whom also feel alienated here because they are not originally from here – and had just sent out a fb post, this morning, asking if anyone would be interested in doing a book club/study group with this book because in the 3 chapters I’ve read, it has really spoken straight to me! If I were to win this package, I would love to share it with the other ladies who are in the same boat as me. I’m praying that, with the new outlook from your book, I take my bitterness from rejection and let it help process me to a better place – one from which I can help others who find themselves in a similar situation! I love olives, so this comparison was a great one! Thank you for sharing your heart!
Thank you for your insight, and for writing this wonderful and inspiring book!
This is exactly where I am right now and everything you’ve shared from this book and the Finding I Am bible study are helping me through right now. While there has been sadness and struggle there is a sweetness as I search for answers to find the face of God. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise Him.” Psalm 28:7
Regardless of whether I win or not I want to pick up this book. Your words are so relatable and encourage me that God always has a plan for every season I encounter thank you Lysa for your continued ministry, you are such a blessing!
Thank you for this, Lysa! I needed to hear this today as I am being forced, against my will, to proceed with a divorce from the man I have dedicated my life to for the past seven years. I never, ever, thought I would be in this position, but it turns out he is not the man I thought he was. But I am grateful for the reminder that this will not crush me. Through Christ, I will prevail.
I needed this right in this moment. My Abba Father has used much of your writing to minister to my broken heart. Thank you for your obedience to Him.
This message- that the good is built through the bad- has found its way to me so many times lately. And it’s just the reminder I’ve needed. Thank you!
This is my first time to read your blog. My husband of 9 years just passed away. He was my first and I feel like my heart is literally breaking. A friend shared your post with me and now after reading your post ,I am going study the olive tree. I know God has a plan and loves me but this sure does hurt like crazy. Thank you for sharing what the Lord teaches you!
It’s so easy to forget in those hard times that it’s necessary and working out a good in us. Making us into something more useful to Him. Thank you for this post.
As for the giveaway, that would be wonderful to win and a great study to do with my friends.
Thank you for this, I’ve struggled with feeling rejected my whole life. I feel like I’m always being crushed and have not felt joy in a long time. Oh, most days I feel ok but then the weight comes and I feel like I’m suffocating. Thank you for reminding me to trust and wait on God.
Lysa,
How right on time this is. It ties right in with The Broken Way book study I am doing now. We must go through the valleys to get to the mountaintops.
Wow! This was exactly what I needed. I do not think that there was one thing on your list plus more that we are not walking trough-from a split family to brain cancer. I never knew anything about the process of the olive and the olive tree. Thank you for allowing God to use you to help bring me perspective.
Your article on Crushing came at the right time for me today. My husband has open heart surgery 5 yrs ago and has recently started having problems again. He had a heart Cath today and the cardiologist told us he is not a candidate for another open heart procedure. He is so weak he stays in the bed almost all of the time. His medications will be increased to the max. Today we have been crushed. We know the oil will come forth! God’s got this!
I feel like I’m right in the middle of this crushing/pressing time and I’m trying not to resist but allow the oil to flow freely out so that I might walk more worthy of him.
Thank you saying, “The crushing times are preservation times”…thank you for helping me understand this time in my life better.
Both myself and a beloved loved one have in the past two years suffered rejection at the hands of a family. Thank you for the encouragement. Would love to read the book–we need as much as we can get.
Hello Lysa,
This is one of the most touching stories in the Bible that resonated with me while following the “Uninvited” online Bible study last year. How this has touched me speaks volumes on so many levels. Being the first generation in my family to go to college. There was no one to look up to for answers when I didn’t understand. As a single parent of three young women. I remember one day during my 21 day Daniel fast turning off the radio, the phone, and all distractions and asking God. Please remove me from my familiar surroundings, and away from anybody that does not have good intentions towards me, and place me where you are, people that are truly after your heart.
I wanted to quiet the noise in my life, and seek God’s face for real. Then shortly after my father passed, an opportunity opened for me to travel to Hawaii, all the way from Pennsylvania. Then that’s when it happened, one day, I was standing in front of Mc Donald’s after an interview in deep thought. When this soldier walked by and asked me if I was lost. Then after talking for a minute to assure him, I wasn’t lost. He invited me to a bible study and the rest was (mystory). It was God ordained. There is a lot more to this story/anointing that God has put on my heart, but I go more into it on my blog. I would love to bless a few people in my life that I know God is asking me to be the light in a dark place.
I truly adored the book and the teachings as well as the video chats with Melissa, and the other Woman of God during that time. There were times where in the middle of this study. I broke down in tears and started speaking in tongues in agreement with what God is doing in my life right now. I may be alone, but I’m not lonely, I may be uninvited to some things, but I know with God. I always have the 1st seat at the table. As God has blessed Abraham by telling him to leave his father’s house, and get out of thy country….he will make my name great… to this foreign land that God has brought me to.
Blessings,
I loved the explanation of the east and west winds, it helps me to be thankful for the good times AND the hard times in my life. Thank you!
Thank you for your insights and teachings.
Lysa
I love all your books have all the other ones
This helped me understand it’s not about me but about Jesus
Maybe its not always in his plan
I have felt stuck lately being crushed in every aspect of my life. Emotionally mentally physically. I know this is a time of growing and testing and that God is making a masterpiece. He is growing me redefining me into something more. He wants me to reach out and help more of the lost and hurting. I have read uninvited and would like to do a study at church with our women on rejection. We all have rejection and deep hurts. I believe this will help them.
This was a very tender study for me. It has helped me realize that Jesus had the same feelings I have had. To look back now and see how God had every thing planed out for me from the start.
This teaching is such an encouragement! Reminds me of the verse Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good,” God may not have caused our current situations, but he can use them so that we can become stronger and so that we are able to reach and teach others.
wow Lysa. you have such a way with words. Thank you for sharing, God knew I needed to read this today.
Loved the study.? Going thru a crushing time with our daughter right now. God is good, and we are working together with Him to get through it.???
I left a job today, one that I needed to leave, for both myself and my employer, but the emotions that are hanging around are still difficult. I am not a quitter and I do not accept average behavior on my part, but more often than not, I came home from a day of work feeling “less than.” Lysa”s blog helped me to realize that sometimes I have to feel the pressure to hear the message that “this” is not the direction I need to go to follow. The crushing times can draw me to Him (and His wisdom) if I will take my eyes off me.
God speaks to the heart in so many ways. This is exactly what I needed to hear at this time in my life. I am going through a difficult time right now physically and have been struggling emotionally, spiritually, and mentally.
I never thought of the Olive Garden where Jesus went to pray in such a way before. I will never read that passage of scripture again without thinking of what you shared about “The Crushing Times”. It will be even more meaningful than it has ever been in the past. Thank you! God bless you as you serve Him. ☺
“It is a lengthy process to be cured of bitterness and prepared for usefulness.”
My life story. Forgiving my parents for past hurts and trying to not remain bitter towards them is difficult. These words bring hope.
I needed the reminder the in order to grow I need to go through the hard times.
what a great giveaway! I’m already half way through Uninvited and am loving it. Would be a great study to share with other women!
Thank you for this. It came at the perfect time. We are expecting our second child in a few weeks and went through a traumatic birth with our first where hypoxia had taken place. I have been fearful of this happening again and often ask, “why her?” “Why me?” ” Why us?”.
Our family will take this lesson and apply it as needed, knowing we are given what we can handle in life.
So thankful for this message it was just what I needed. If I win this giveaway I will teach it at our next Bible Study.
Lysa, this post was a hard to read lesson all of it true, but tough to swallow. I hate this period of time, but like you said this waiting is prepping and preserving. God has a plan and is making me ready for the next phase f his plan. Your post was another reminder to slow down and let him be God. Thank you so much!
This reminded me to not give up when life all around me seems to be a mess ( a bitter olive). I am being pressed hard to get the ” oil”. What a great visual I can fall back on every day.
Mourning the recent loss of my brother has. Roughy me to my knees in a completely new way I thank God death was Uninvited as God revealed to me the reality of where he is ( heaven) although the pain hurt I lean in and trust God. Feeling I’m in a crushing Season right now
And would love to read your book I follow screen shoot your sermons and regularly incourage by Christ in you.
Thank you
Thanks for such wise counsel… yes, hardship can drive away shallowness, but it is by God’s grace and comfort, we can get out of the deep valley of bitterness
We are in a crushing period, broken over my child’s broken heart. Scared when the phone rings, scared when the texts come in, fear for potential scaring that will change our family forever. Being reminded it is a period and God can use this lesson for good, is encouraging. Praying for heart healing and relief from anxiety.
I am going through a crushing time right now, myself. It is hard to continue getting up every day when everything you have known has been completely destroyed the past few years. I have never known the love of a parent, but the one parent that has been in my life I lost back in April 2014 and one month Pryor to her passing, I lost the one man closest to being my earthly father. If that wasn’t bad enough I separated from my husband of 27 years. I spent 2016 just trying to survive but in Sept 2016 I had really had enough favortism on the job I had been doing for 4 years. So when I was called into the office on Sept 7 2016 and 2 supervisors decided to team up against me. I decided to quit my job thinking it would not be hard to get hired at Walmart, only to find out that not only was Wal-Mart not hiring no-one else were either. So I have used all funds I had to keep me going until now and if it weren’t for God and my children I wouldn’t even have a home at this point. I messed up quitting my job not having one waiting for me to start. It really has been a hard 2 years but knowing Jesus had it worse than I have had it. helps me to keep my faith and continue on knowing that something good is out there waiting for me to find it with a little help from Jesus. So as long as I am staying in my Bible and doing studies I know I can get through anything. There is more but I think you get an understanding just how much I need to continue following.the path of Jesus Christ.
Thank you so kindly for sharing this Lysa!!! Bless you!!!
Thank you so much for this and for pretty much everything that you provide Lysa. I am going through some difficult times with my marriage and I am continually praying for God’s will to be done, and I know he will see it all through for his plan and not mine; but it is so difficult waiting and not knowing. Your words and studies really provide light in my darkness. Thanks again~
This is what I took away from your writing:
When the sorrowful winds of the east blow, I forget they are necessary.
When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.
And when I’m being crushed, I forget it’s for the sake of my preservation.
It’s so easy to say “woe is me” when the strong winds blow but to remember that our hardships are necessary and for a reason is something I need reminding of. Thanks for your encouragement.
I have recently graduated with my bachelor’s and have come to a realization that my choices in ministry seem very limited. God keeps prodding me forward but there are days when I feel I am losing hope. I know He will use me as he chooses and no one can stop that but my humanity is at times weak and I begin to feel frustrated. This blog message is yet another reminder that it’s all for a purpose and while I don’t understand it yet I trust and know that in the end it will all serve to preserve me in the place he has in store for me.
Like flowers in the rain we are made to flourish despite how difficult life feels!
I have been hard pressed for 4 years since the Lord found me. I have lost my husband and my job and more but to know I am being crushed for Jesus to get something out of me I press on. Through the tears daily, not knowing but still walking. Thank you Lysa these teachings would be so valuable to me. ❤
Crushing isn’t the olives end. THAT part really stuck out to me. It feels like my family and I have been in this difficult season for so long, I don’t feel like I’ve got anything else left to give.
I absolutely needed this reminder today. I’m in the midst of being pressed in on all sides. Most days ready to wave the white flag…
so thank you for this reminder that even and especially during the difficult times my God is refining me! So I trust on and believe that just like the olive, he is molding my life to be useable for His glory!
This really spoke to me and provided an analogy that I needed to hear RIGHT NOW at this very point in my life. My family and I have been going through so many trials in the last couple of years so many so I don’t think there is room on this page to write them but God knows what we have faced and has been there through each and every one of them. From death, job loss, health issues and financial uncertainty, we have been thrown into each of these ‘furnaces’ for purification. And I know it was for our good according to Romans 8:38. It has been a difficult journey but I believe God is in control and know He has a plan….His plan for our lives. Thank you Lysa!
the crushing times that I am dealing with are my health. I have had two skin transplants, expecting two more and another year of treatment, AT LEAST.
after about 5 years of treatment so far.
Uninvited has been a lifesaver for me. period!!
thank you Lysa for your teaching!
We all have times and events in our lives that leave us feeling less than. When we get news that changes our world we must remember Gods promises are our only assurance.
I feel myself being pressed in this crushing time. Your devotional reminded me that the result may be beauty and well being in the end. Thank You!
This speaks so much about my life. I remember when when I was thrown out of my house with my children and was abused, had no where to go and no money, it took 8 hours to get to my aunts house. Then to get to my parents house in another country with nothing but the clothes on my back, to start all over. But God … it was all part of His plan. I’m so much stronger, so blessed. Praise the Lord!!! Glory be to God!!! He was the One who took me out of that situation, it wasn’t that I was thrown out!!!
My 2 daughters-in-love are reading Uninvited and I am excited to read it too! Would love to do the study with the women in my church!
Dear Lysa, I have never heard this and can’t tell you how timely it is to read this now. Thank you for sharing your heart and your knowledge. I will be reading and rereading this. God bless.
It was just as if Jesus and you were talking straight to me. It is what I needed to be able to survive this point in my life. Thank you!!
This is a really great visual of the process that God has been taking me through for about 4 years. All the time knowing that He is teaching me and growing me but I have been fighting the battle of bitterness, knowing that situations will not change. This reminded me to have hope because He is changing me and I will not only endure but also be preserved.
I so appreciate your devotion on the crushing times. I am coordinating care for my elderly parents in another state. They divorced the same year I married and left the area. Now they both have severe disabilities, as does my brother, who is the only person who is helping me with their needs. The last four months have been overwhelming, since my Dad had a massive stroke.
Your devotion helped put the whole situation in a proper, eternal perspective. I know the Lord is working out all the details. I would love to receive one of your Uninvited Bible Study kits to use at my chuch women’s group. We are a small group that enjoys sharing our journey together as we grow in Chist and impact our culture for Jesus. Thank you for your books and your impact. You have given me many tools to strengthen my relationship with Jesus and his people. Blessings to you!
Right now I’m enjoying the Finding I Am study, but really want to do the Uninvited soon. I feel my husband and I have been in one crushing season after another and our cry has been Lord, how long? Your posts are encouraging & uplifting and offers another ounce of strength to hang on.
Thank you for this timely reminder…. I, too, easily forget that it’s all necessary for growth and rebirth. Instead, I tend to wallow in the bitterness and injustice for far too long until God has to wake me up with something far more painful than what set me down my self-pitying path in the first place! If only I would learn from the “little” lessons! 🙂
No matter how crushed, sad, lonely I feel, it is never too much or too great that Jesus’ love isn’t greater still. His unfailing love is greater and always will be enough during our crushing times. Learning to lean on truth rather than what I feel.
I am going through difficult-hurtful times. My daughter sent me your blog this morning..
God’s timing is soo perfect. I’m being pressed and trying to survive…I gained wisdom from reading other comments from women going through trials as well…I especially loved..
crushing times draws me to HIM and His wisdom , if I take my eyes off me…I have felt his peace and faithfulness during this journey. I want hime to use me and this pain to be an influence to others….I know and trust he will show me the way …
I would love to receive your study…our bible study group is doing SEAMLESS by
Angie Smith…understanding the bible as one complete story..it’s wonderful….
I needed this so badly right now. My family has been in turmoil for over 8 months now, and I have never felt so alone in the world and isolated from/by them. There is so much hurt to overcome that it sometimes seems hopeless. I needed reminding that not only is there hope, but there is PURPOSE in this season of my life. He’s refining me, and I can at least be thankful for that. And thankful for this post. God Bless!
What a beautiful picture you have painted. I would love to continue to study & share it with others.
I am blessed to have just spent 10 days in Israel. One evening we spent a Holy Hour in the Church next to the Garden, so your comments on the olives touched my heart. I am in one of those “crushing times” you mentioned when a loved one turns their back and leaves, I am writing your thoughts in my bible in Luke 22 so they are always with me. Thank you for your insights. P.S. As I stood looking down on the path Jesus walked up to Caiphas’ house,it reminded me of your teaching from there .
As the mom of a special needs daughter, I often feel hard-pressed on every side. It is through God’s grace and the people he has placed in my life that I have slowly started seeing the many blessings.
“I think I need to revisit these truths often:
When the sorrowful winds of the east blow, I forget they are necessary.
When I’m being processed, I forget it’s for the sake of ridding me of bitterness.
And when I’m being crushed, I forget it’s for the sake of my preservation.”
Thank you for this BEAUTIFUL reminder.
Thank you Lisa, how timely. Appreciate your insight very much. Never considered the symbolism of the olive tree.
This teaching of the olive tree and its fruit needing very prescribed conditions in order to thrive and produce good fruit, brings understanding to the course of my life which has need of very prescribed conditions to mature and prefect me so that I can bear good fruit according to God”s design for me.
This book has been an absolute Godsend to me! I was blessed to be part of a Mom’s group with this book, and I was so impacted by this book. God showed me how much of this “rejection perception” He has been healing me from, and I would like to share this with another group so they can benefit from it and be blessed. Thank you, Lysa! This book could not have been a walk in the park to write, but your vulnerability reaches deeply. Blessings!
We are on the back end of a crushing time. What resonates is “when I feel so utterly incapable, unable, and afraid”. Thank you for the hope found in the olive tree illustration. Like you, I forget!!!
I think what helped me the most about this post is the realization that when the olive is crushed…it is still not the end. Thank you so much Lysa.
I’m going through a divorce after 25 yrs of marriage not of my choice he was unfaithful to me this devotional help me to see there is a reason why I’m going through this I can’t see it yet but someday I’ll know why for now I just take one day a time.
I have felt the sting of rejection much of my life, starting with a father who virtually abandoned me. Two years ago we welcomed to children into our family through adoption. Working with my son through his own hurt, has stirred up my own. I have felt crushed emotionally, mentally, spiritually and even physically. But as I come to the “end of myself” I can sense that God is doing a work in me and this story is not over yet. Refining sometimes hurts. I would love to win a copy of this book set!
I often feel pressed. I often feel crushed. I often remember the Saviors pressing and crushing and can’t imagine what He felt what He went through. Noting He endured all for the joy that was set before Him makes me courageous it gives me hope and hope never disappoints. This blessed me beyond believe. I’m such a visual and after just returning from a missions trip to Israel in Nov it had even more impact with being able to see the exact places you were referring to. Blessings and thank you!
The Olive Tree is part of my life and the process of curing the Olive to its fullness is a lesson I am needing to learn.
Just when I’m feeling shaken or crushed – perfect timing for a message from above! Thank you so much!
God has definitely showed me extremely important things about Himself and myself during times of despair and when I have felt I’m being crushed. The Refiner’s fire is often not a “fun” place but it is a place of hope and a place to go deeper ~ deeper in love with God, deeper into trust of Him, deeper in faith as you cling to Him. Thanks for reminding me of that.
Thank you Lysa for this great teaching and illustration.
Going through some crushing this helps me retain hope that God has His purposes, that He will use this crushing to produce fruit which will glorify Him.
I also can’t help but make connection between oil and the Holy Spirit.
How like our God to use one object as such profound lesson.
May He bless you abundantly for your service, obedience and ministry.
The crushing like pruning is not pleasant, but our Savior went through the same process. I’ve learned it’s the way to become more like Him.
After several failed long-term relationships, I have began feeling seriously depressed. I am so thankful for this reminder that my Savior has felt many of the same heart breaking disappointments by those closest to Him. As much as it sadens me to know He had to endure this heartache, it also makes me thankful that I am not alone in my disappointment/depression. I KNOW He loves me and will walk me through every step of this refining process!
“…crushing isn’t the olive’s end.”
“Crushing is the way of preservation for the olive. It’s also the way to get what’s most valuable, the oil, out of the olive. Keeping this perspective is how we can be troubled on every side yet not distressed … pressed to the point of being crushed but not crushed and destroyed.”
Crushing = Preserving… This really spoke to me, because so often the crushing of life’s hard seasons can feel like the beginning of our demise. Too often we think of crushing = destruction, when the only thing God is looking to destroy in us is what has turned rancid. He just wants to extract the rancid, bitter oils from surface places, and reach the fresh oil deeply hidden in us. Oil = healing. Hmmm. Such deep thoughts I have here, and I’m not even sure how to put them into words yet. A lot of cud to chew on from this post. Thank you for sharing your wisdom from your book.
Oh Lysa as I opened the email I am crying in total utter despair I’ve never felt this before. I can’t explain it, and I’m trying to stop and breathe, I’m crying out to God for 4 months. My story is to long, but it has to do with me on life support, right after being released, my husband wants a divorce with no explanation, my babies left, my husband filed bit we’re still in the same house in separate rooms, he’s have a gayear ole’ time making plans to do stuff, while I’m obeying the Word. I have no family where I live (we’re not close anyway) he’s not saved. He is a veteran 44 years young and damaged goods. Lysa I don’t know what to do. I know and feel a great calling MY Father Jesus Christ has for me, but I don’t know for what. I’ve been patiently listening and waiting for so long. The list goes on I just need to get away and clear my head and just stud, but I have no money, while he’s living it up and nowhere to go my church family has so much going on I’m lost. Please team pray for me please
Oh my! I printed this Tuesday but just read this morning! This is exactly what I’ve experienced through someone’s else’s personal tragedy. I have witnessed the pressing and have seen Jesus. WoW oh wow is all I can say. I’m so glad Jesus loves us this MUCH! ?
Lysa, I am wondering if the study guide will also correlate with the book. It seems to indicate that it goes along with the DVD. I am wanting to use it for a bible study to go along with the book. Or is there a book study guide too?
I’m crushed olive right now. I feel that only Job knows my pain and hopelessness.how can like be so hard? Thank you for your beutiful words.
I am in this season – the crushing and the pressing – and I cannot tell you how much I needed to hear this today. The other day, I read the Why? Email from the aI AM study. And I was asking the 3 why questions. In this email, I received my answers. Thank you, Lysa!
Every day I feel like life presses me. Even when not in crisis, life just is HARD! Daily life can be a crushing time even though there are no current fires to put out. Looking back at what seemed like bottomless pits of pain and desperation, I now know God was producing oil! More importantly, a dear friend of mine recently got ‘that call’ about bad test results and the return of cancer. Hopefully I can use some of this to minister to her during her very intense “why me” time of questioning.
I have had a similar experience with the olive tree. My life went through a lot of changes before my divorce. I painted a picture of Jesus in the Garden of Gethseseme. It’s a paint by number. I did this in my healing time. Although I did not know the processing of olives. I now see and relate to it exactly. Thank you for making me aware of this process
Geri Slavin
Incredible! Today I am searching for inspirational stories because our small church is searching for a leader, someone whose heart is after God’s own heart. But Tuesday morning (2-1-17) on the way to work was one of the most personally difficult days of my life. For reasons that still haven’t been made known to me – my daughter called me on my way to work and told me some things she and her sister feel about me that about took my breath away. Never has anyone I loved told me such hurtful things. As tears filled my eyes, i said nothing but drove and listened as she continued her hurtful story of not feeling unconditional love from me. The most hurtful thing to me is that she told me she didn’t want to go to church because of the way I am. i have prayed daily since then and will talk with them together. I do not want to stand in the way of them knowing God – my worst fear is to be a hindrance between anyone and God. This story inspired me today to understand that God allowed it and that I need to look inside my heart deeply to be sure my love and faith in Him is real in every way. Thank you for this specific story on this specific day from our God who is the King of the world and the savior of my soul. . .
Just in a bad place right now; I lost my husband of 43 years 7 months ago and need encouragement. Nights are rough, but God has brought me through thus far and I trust Him totally. However, my emotions sometime consume me, which is part of the grief process. Thank you, Lord, for carrying me when I can’t carry myself. And, thank you, Lisa, for reminding me of the olive tree.
My whole family is under attack right now physically, emotionally, mentally, and spirituality. Through recent loss of a great job by my youngest son and my daughter in law has Graves disease as well as just had a psychic break down with psychosis diagnosis with parinoad schizophrenia among other things she is 24 years old with a 2 and 3 year old her husband my son is crushed by all this. And my daughter’s fiancé mother is dying from dimenta within weeks and they refuse help. So it’s put a hardship on the rest of the family.
Read this makes realize just how sweet and amazing God is to us to want to help us through our pains in life. And press us to get the full worth He wants from us. And He does this in such a loving way. Our God is an awesome God. Jesus went through so much just for each one of us.
“Keeping this perspective is how we can be troubled on every side yet not distressed … pressed to the point of being crushed but not crushed and destroyed.” This resonates! Jesus goes before me and alongside me.
This would be a true gift! Having felt this way for a long time, getting to understand the true meanings behind it!! Would FEEL AMAZING!! BTW I’m loving the Finding I Am #biblestudy! I cannot thank you enough!!
Being an elementary school teacher, I always like to have something concrete to show children when I teach a new concept. This makes it easier, especially for visual learn ears (which I am). When I used to do children’s moments at church, I always did an object lesson. This illustration of the olive tree was excellent. It made it much easier to understand why we often go through hardships, but need to remember that through it all God is there! Thanks for the lesson.
I needed to hear this teaching, not only for me, but also how to help my daughters. I need guidance on how to help them in this area. Thank you!
I am being crushed right now. I would love to do this study. I am going to make it next on my list. Lord open my eyes and heart!!
This is right on time for me. We have had quite a few setbacks this past year but have been mainly able to Praise through the storms as we know we are overcomers in Christ. Yesterday it came crushing in and I had what I call a meltdown. In June, my husband lost his job. Jesus hasn’t led him to the new one yet. In sept. He had a heart attack, and had to have an emergency heart cath and a stent put in. In Oct., he had to have 2 more stents put in. He is very healthy now, Praise the Lord. A couple weeks ago I got the flu followed by a sinus infection. The antibiotic caused me to get cdif, which is a contagious gastrologic infection. When I went to the ER (before I knew what it was) i just thought I was dehydrated from all the symptoms. Found out I not only had cdif but had had a heart attack that day! I was admitted to the hospital. Cardiologist wanted to do a heart cath but with the symptoms of cdif, that would have been pretty hard. Spent 4 days trying to get it cleared. Finally had the heart cath and was so thankful arteries were clear. I was finally released the next day. On the way home we stopped to have my prescriptions filled. When we got it and we’re finally ready to go home, the car won’t start! Roadside assist said they would be 90 minutes. I called a friend to take me home while my husband waited for assistance. As soon as I got in my friends car, I broke down in tears! It was the first time in all of this I felt almost hopeless. Praise the Lord He is the lifter of my head as it was pretty heavy. That happened yesterday and that same friend sent me a copy if this today! Praise His holy name. Thank you for the insight! It had brought cleansing and releasing tears. ” My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus ….”. Thanks again
My husband and I are experiencing a time of transition in our ministry. This was a great read because we have also experienced some growing pains with it. However, this reminded me that for everything there is a process. Thank you!
I am so hurt. My husband died last year, and I miss him so much. I so need this teaching today, for I too wondered why I must be crushed. But the teaching reminded me of His love, and that He always does what is best.
It’s ironic you sent this! I have wanted to contact you and let you know that I have NEVER read a book that spoke to my soul like Uninvited! Wow! I am going thru it again. I have purchased it for a friend as well. This book is phenomenal and I want to say Thank you for helping me with my rejection and hurts that have been there all these years!!
God bless you!
This so resonates with me right now. Thank you.
How harsh that wind is, and I’m just now learning how necessary it is as well. The trying seasons of life are so difficult, when you’re in the midst of the storms and trails and it doesn’t seem like it’s worth it and all you can do is ask “why?”. But oh the salvation that comes out of those times. The goodness at the end of that dark tunnel. I’m learning now that the valleys make the peaks that much sweeter. It’s a difficult lesson.
I need this so much. I am at a place that is so hurtful. Please consider me.
Fighting thru this right now. Would love the book and study to go to.
This book has brought me to tears, more than any other book I’ve ever read. Your honestly and vulnerability through your words has encouraged me to know I am not alone in this fight. I’m not alone in feeling the way I do, or thinking the things I think.
As women, we are so incredibly judgemental, and insecure and most of the time we direct it back on ourselves.
I think it’s so crucial to have healthy community around to encourage one another through the hard times in life. The ability to come together and push back the lies, and the work that the enemy is doing to keep us far away from God’s love.
I would love to receive this box set because I feel as though I could really lead a group of women through this book. It has moved me, encouraged me and helped me remember who I am in Christ. I would love to journey with others, and wrestle with the hard realities we face on the daily. I love how clear and genuine each page reads, and I know that others need the same reminders. I am currently in the process of helping plant a new church in my city, and know that how people find community is through small groups, and I would love to have the material to be able to lead one some day. Especially with this book… it’s too good not to share.
Lysa, I just want to say thank you for the books you write. I love who you are n admire your journey and how you have grown in Christ. Your book “Univited” has me in tears, having me deal with alot n seeing God in a better light. I even find myself laughing on how real you are. Keep on being you, being real and doing what God’s has called you to do.
Thank you for this reading! I needed to read 2 Corinthians 4:8-9! It’s a shame that I forget. It’s a shame that I need a constant reminder whenever I’m experiencing something uncomfortable. But it’s also a blessing to be put back into place every time my heart starts to drift away. The feeling of knowing God is always there is the most comforting way to deal with my issues. The past two weeks have been hard for me. I needed withdraw from the world for a second and confessed to God all my worries and cares. Today, I woke up feeling rejuvenated because the Lord put me back in place. I was that little girl that started wandering off but He grabbed hold of my hand to keep me safe. Anyway, I actually have the uninvited book and almost done with it, but I feel like I want to fully grasp the messages being taught in the book. I’ve had it for 3 months and it’s been a battle trying to finish it. It’s a shame to admit that I always need a reminder of who God truly is and what can He do for my life. One thing I do know is that I’m lost without Him. He really is our Father and without His guidance we will tremble and fall.
I’ve been there, haven’t we all? Honestly, this spoke to me because I lead Bible studies in my church for women. Recently it seems that so many of our women are feeling crushed and I’m praying over our next study and how it could help to heal them and bring them to an understanding of God’s ways in this area. I think this study would be perfect. We are believing for a revival in our church and community in 2017 and I see evidence already as these women begin, with fear and trembling, to share the pain that is held so deep in their hearts.
This post is such a great reminder to me that the pressing times can be a time of growth and cleansing in our lives–thanks so much for sharing this message!
Amen! I remember learning this from you last year, and how it spoke to me. How easily I forget these valuable insights! Needed this again today. Thank you…
“pressed not crushed” how this statement is resonating with me. I have found myself here in the last few months. The strain of struggles far beyond my control have left me broken and desperately searching for explanation and guidance on what I am supposed to be doing. Thank you for bringing this to light.
wow, that was a perfect message for today. Going through some crazy things right now at home that have made me feel beaten. Thanks for sharing your heart. Also really enjoyed your part in the IFGathering. Listening to that talk again right now 🙂
This was profound for me, thank you! Lately, my husband and I have been dealing with a persisting issue that always seems to creep up around the same time every year for the last 12 years!? We have prayed about it and continue to do so. This Sunday at church I had my own revelation while praise and worship – I sobbed uncontrollably and wept from a deep place inside my soul. Until that moment I hadn’t realized the depth of what I was carrying around and feeling. We still don’t have our answered prayer but reading today’s devotional helped me a lot – thank you! It has reassured me to keep pressing forward one day, one moment at a time. God is faithful!! xoxo
I love the part about the best way to preserve the olive is to press it, so that the most valuable part comes out; the oil. Thank you for reminding us that we must go through a process. Our trials, though pressing, help us to become more like Jesus. Thank you for your wonderful teaching! Also, thank you for your recent teaching at the IF gathering! It was amazing! You were one of my favorite speakers. 🙂
I think too many times we expect for good things to happen without really going through anything bad. As you mention, those crushing moments help us get to the place where Jesus wants us. Let us Praise Him and thank Him for giving us the strength to get through those crushing moments. Keeping His promise to us and delivering us.
Hi Lysa, once again I’ve returned to tell you how much you really helped me reach a place I needed to find and be with God. I truly hope I can win a copy of your winners selection, I can’t wait to get started, I know God sent this message from you to me for a reason, and I’m not letting it go 🙂 I emailed you instead of commenting initially from my firewife0914@yahoo.com so I hope you received those, it explained a lot. Always praying for you, Love You Sweet Lady, Trish aka Patricia Edwards Salem, Virginia
Wow, a word in due season! Thank you! I am up, not able to sleep because of the heart crushing news I am dealing with…. I LOVE how the Holy Spirit brought me to this teaching and the peace that these words have brought my spirit. Thank you for sharing this! What an amazing Lord we serve. Blessings to you and your ministry.
Hi Lysa,
I just want to thank you for the reminder of the crushing times. I recently lost my 31 year old daughter. She passed away in November….crushing time like no other. I love object lessons and the olive tree is perfect in my situation and brings understanding. We would prefer not to go through hard times, but God has a greater purpose. I leave this quote by Paul Tripp. “God will take us where we do not want to go in order to produce in us what we could not achieve on our own.” Thank you for being used by God to minister to others.
I was blessed to hear you speak via teleconference at our local IF: Gathering. You were elequent in words & presentation. I left that conference so on fire & on top of the mountain but then I returned home to crushing & pressing. I appreciate your words regarding the olive tree. How “painful” it must be for that little olive! But then how tasty it becomes. The process takes time & that is the gift I must give myself today…time. Truly God’s time. I have faith in Him.
I’m walking through heart break and have been for the past 7 months. Rejection in romantic relationships is just the worst.
This season has been one of the toughest of my life, just yesterday I sincerely asked the Lord if I was going to come out OK. There are more times where I’m overwhelmed about how to move forward than there are moments of clarity.
And I can’t deny this has been one of the most fruitful seasons of my life. Jesus keeps showing up, like a gentleman, taking my hand and leading me through every thought and feeling I’ve processed.
To say my life is undergoing the Olive Tree journey is an understatement. Honestly, at times I’ve wondered why it took going through such heart ache to learn life transforming God truths. Couldn’t I have learned these truths another way? But alas, God has me where he wants me.
Thank you, Lysa, for the reminder that this season is not to be overlooked or taken lightly. God’s peace in my soul surpasses understanding. I just know he’s in the depths working, healing and making me new for His glory.
I wouldn’t take back any of the hurt and heart ache for the intimacy I’ve experienced with him through my Olive Tree journey.
I have learned to many times the hard way by our loving God to keep my eyes ? on my “Master”. Every time I do it leads to my own ways, my own agendas, my own life styles and I recenter everything back on ME!!! And hit flat and the rejection that I have received by other when I am in my own thinking I am in my own desires. This leads to a road of distraction and distruction. When all he wants is for me to embody his desires focused upon him and he can guide all my “Junk”. Cause boy do I know my Junk is phew an absolute mess.
I just found “the crushing times” on K-love 1 minute of encouragement tonight. Perfect timing. My wife and I have been so worried about our daughter with her struggles as a freshman in high school. We keep telling her God has a reason and a plan. This really painted the picture more clear. I had her read “the crushing times” article, Grace said it helped. We discussed that things still wont be easy to get through but at least this might give her understanding to some of her struggles. Our hearts are breaking watching our beautiful young girl struggling with high school which should be one of the best times of her life….
Thank you
This study is think will allow me to really feel the rejection that Christmas felt and how he is the only one that can help me overcome the difficulty in my life right now.
Just because we grow up to be so-called adults, doesn’t mean we don’t still feel like we’re trying to find a seat at the lunch table in middle school. Rejection hurts, no matter how old we are. Adult women can be as mean as “mean girls.”
Lysa,
I recently watched you at the IF:Gathering 2017. I found your site through a Daily Devotional I have started to read in the past few months and recognized your name from my journal notes from the conference. I wrote “Uninvited” by Lysa Terkeurst. Get this one!! Thank you very much for your inspiration that day. I have experienced in the last year a crushing loss of my son in my life. He left our home and decided he could be independent at 17. I have only recently found God and his comfort in my life and am trying to learn as much as possible as quickly as possible to help my soul heal. Your passage here spoke to me, as I feel like the oil of the olive. Thank you and God Bless!
Loved this and it came in God’s perfect timing! Thank you!
Lisa, you cannot imagine how this hit me very hard. I almost made a terrible decision to have my life done. God came and rescued me. I received great help from people that God brought into my life. I pray my family will come around and not be negative towards me. I would really appreciate to receive your offer. I am trying to be at peace with my life. God please heal the wounds in my heart. Amen
The analogy is a hoot! I love the “outside the box” thinking. Life is an adventure! That olive requires readjusting. The salt added to the extent God pours His love into us. Adequate amounts varying until ripe for transformation into the product God intended. That next step is faith which heightens our awareness that all life directs our way is compressed into His hands. That olive will yield God’s intent at that time and place in our life toward ripening. Oh, how those winds in life will blow from the east and the west enriching our lives as we dive into the Bible and grow. Thanks, Lysa
Love
I have recently been crushed by not one but two adult daughters who have hurt me emotionally to the innermost core. I literally feel like my heart has been torn in half.
When I read your reading this morning, I felt God’s tears sweep over me like a healing flood. I would be so blessed from the study set you have made. I have been broken but I am ready for healing and how to tangibly move forward walking hand in hand with our precious saviour. God bless you Lysa.
I’ve read this book and reread it. Every word written is like I’ve written it myself! Rejection is so hard. And many times I have not taken the steps I’ve needed for fear of rejection and feeling the hurt again. But sometimes when we are crushed we come out better than we were before! I have many friends dealing with these same struggles and would love the opportunity to share this with them. I’m actually leading your Finding I am Study at our church right now. My first big step into what God is calling me. And this one is next!! Thank you for being obedient even when it’s hard.
This is exactly what I needed to hear this morning, the verses you used were right in line with my devotion this morning! God is speaking, thank you for being a tool to me this morning!!
Currently in a made to crave study at our church. This would be a awesome companion study for us. I feel pretty uninvited anyhow at this time. Definitely being “pressed” . Recently remarried at the ripe age of 56 after 16 years of being single.
Lysa, I cannot thank you enough for these words today. Been struggling with a decision I felt the Lord led me to that hasn’t been fully accepted by some in our church.
To be reminded of the deeper purpose in this time spoke to my soul. I know God is using it to refine me, but sometimes I just want to know I’m loved, as imperfect as I am.
And that’s how God loves each one of us.
Thank you.
Honestly until I started reading your books I had no idea that other people struggle with these issues as I did. After all I was a mature Christian and I shouldn’t be having these feelings. I thought I was a freak of nature. (at least that is what the devil would have me to believe) this book is helping me to see when you have faced rejection and experienced being unloved these feelings are real. Now we don’t stay there but we also don’t beat ourselves up for having real emotions. God can use them for good but we have to turn them over to him. The devil wants to make sure we never get this far by making us think we are not worthy and no one else is struggling this way. Thank you for speaking truth and sharing the real and raw so that we know we are not alone. May God Bless you as much as you through your words He has blessed me.
I’ve been through so much in my life and in this time in my life I’m actually in counseling and well my counselor let me borrow her copy of Uninvited for me to read it and let things soak in and maybe for me to get a better understanding of this whole rejection thing I have going on in my life from many pasts trauma and hurts!! I would love to be able to truly dig deeper into this study and it would be so much help I truly believe!
I really enjoyed your take on rejection with Abigail and David. I have shared it with my Bible study group. I would love to win this!
Wow! I literally came across your post by searching for a study app. This is just what I needed to sit on. First, I love olives! I love the saltiness… I love them stuffed with garlic… I love them stuffed with jalapeños… I love them stuffed with pimentos. But it just can’t be any olive… has to be a Queen olive! A girl can be selective, right!?!! Sometimes I just crave the salty – it satisfies that need and your post about hiding in the shade of the olive tree hit home for me. I know this is dumb, but I was crushed last night after seeing an encouraging word I shared with someone go unnoticed, while the others were not. Shallow, I know! It rendered me useless … not kidding! This word was poured over someone I had discipled years ago, it just stung! So, thank you… for not just understanding a woman’s heart, but for being so committed to the Father that when you hear a Word, you share that Word and it pours healing into the hearts of others.
I love this. I am so visual and this gives me just that for the times when I feel so very alone, crushed by life and rejected on all sides. I plan to print this out and post it in my bathroom mirror to remind me.of the olive tree. Thank you Lysa for sharing this insight.
i needed this today. one of my mentors gave me Uninvited during a season of struggling with my dad. i remember feeling like the book spoke to my soul and i felt God healing my wounds and pushing me towards forgiveness. i’ve been considering rereading it as i was recently dumped by a boy who i thought was the love of my life. this time of my life has been hard, i’ve felt lonely and crushed at times and yet the Lord has been right beside me, encouraging me and giving me hope.
As a child I was attacked by a stranger in my home. I was so traumatized by this event (in fact I blocked it out entirely) and I never told my poor mother, who died suddenly in a car accident just weeks later. My father was brain damaged by this accident and passed away 12 years later. For the 8 years from her death until I was asked to move out at 18, various relative tossed us around. Some loved on me, some abused me. Some were pastors, all were christians. It took years for me to want to learn about God all over again. I say again because I wanted to learn for myself not be told what to believe or do or say. I didn’t want the Christian game.
Early 20’s, I married my best friend. We had children and lost children. I invested all my heart into surviving with God through all the tough times that came our way. I dove headfirst into serving in a little church. And for 5 years I was happy. But during that time, the horrible memories returned. My marriage began struggling.
I started medicines for anxiety under the care of a doctor. The medicine made me very sick. It changed me. I didn’t think clearly. I was confused and suicidal. Then, at my lowest our pastor started trying to pursue me during “counseling.” It was so unexpected and I was so confused and angry and scared.
It seems that every man would be like all the ones before, hypocrites, self serving narcissists.
But I got help, real help. I was able to stop the medicine, and recover from the pain of the attack, as well as the trauma of what the medicine did to me and my family. I chose my marriage even with all its struggles, and I choose it everyday as we progress. We moved away from this terrible person, (who was caught in lies by the elders and forced to resign). He spread his lies about me through the community and through the church. My silence made me guilty in their accusing (and un-questioning) eyes. A few very close friends knew the truth and stood by us. But it’s been over a year.
I struggle to pick up the Bible. I struggle to pray. Every so often the Spirit washes over me and I feel so loved. So wanted. But I am so afraid. And so far from my expectations of what I want ‘me’ to be. I don’t know who to be or how to be. I struggle daily.
I just don’t know where to turn. I will never trust again. But as I’m reading this article, I’m bawling my eyes out. “If we are to escape the natural bitterness we must go through a long process…” it’s long. It’s scary. And I don’t want to be bitter and angry. But I don’t want to be a fool. And I don’t want to be betrayed or taken advantage of. How do I open my heart again? How do I survive this? I’m at such a loss. No encouragement seems to take me all the way to the end of this long process, and every so often I get very afraid it will never end or that I’ll somehow miss all the signs again, just to be back here. I want to run, I want to hide, but I also want to be loved. And to belong. And it is only to God I could ever truly belong. So what will ever heal this broken soul? A great and loving God. But what that looks like I don’t know. Thanks for your time in this article. It is beautiful and I hope in time, through this process of removing the bitter something precious will arise in me. Though I feel so utterly discouraged with where I am at times.
Hi Kristie!
Thank you for sharing your vulnerable story with us — Please be looking out for am email from our team.
Many blessings,
Mary Scott Mercer
LT ministry team
Although I have always been a caring and an outgoing person, I’ve never really had a best friend or as many refer to as a “BFF,” other than my Mom. I would wonder why no one wanted to invest in getting to know me, my husband, or young son on a more deeper level. My husband is active duty Air Force and us moving every few years didn’t make it any easier. Nor did it help that my marriage needed restoration. I saw other spouses instantly hit it off and started making playdate plans. I would see posts on Facebook on how glad a spouse was to have another spouse as a BFF and how she helped her in a difficult situation. It really hit home when my beautiful Mom passed away last year after fighting uterine cancer for four years. My sister’s friends checked in on her frequently and sent her instant messages and prayers. One of my sister’s friends even had chicken soup sent delivered to our Dad’s house. My friends expressed their condolences on a Facebook post and that was about it. No one sent me a card or instant messaged me to ask how I was or if I needed anything. My heart and soul felt crushed and I had never felt so abondoned. Not having a best friend made me feel as if I wasn’t beautiful or worthy, and that something must just be wrong with me. After a lengthy time of not reading my Bible nor praying on a regular basis, I have returned to doing both regularly. I am hanging on to this thread of hope that God will heal these deep wounds of rejection and feelings of unworthiness. I must believe that there is some purpose to this pain and those times I felt extremely alone, unworthy, and longed for a BFF. I’m still going through the “processing” part”. I get up each day and I just believe that God will restore my broken heart and that eventually will use me to help others in some way.
Nora, my heart goes out to you. I feel disregarded within my husband’s family. I am his 2nd wife and his mother always brought out his 1st wife’s wedding pictures for his children to look through. But when she became bed ridden, I was her care giver. And both she and her daughter still found fault with all that I did. My husband thought he was mediating between them and me, yet he sat with them and was the one asking the interrogation questions. Of course, her own children didn’t have the time or money to take care of her. (My west wind). Since I’ve been married, I didn’t have children like my friends did. My step children were much older, so we couldn’t coordinate play dates. My husband was a police officer who worked nights, weekends and holidays so our schedules never matched. And the only way to meet other officer wives was through my husband, who didn’t socialize with his platoon families. So, I had lost almost all contacts over the past 30 years. Our lifestyle didn’t connect with anyone else. Now, he has a new career and wants to divorce. My whole life has been odd and end jobs (and school) that worked around his schedule. I now have had my longest job of 7 years in retail. It’s an hourly position that doesn’t pay enough to live on. The area that I got my degree in (film photography) doesn’t exist anymore. I get to start over, without a support group of friends and family nearby. I don’t know what God has in store for me or you, but I have got to believe that there are more people out there who are lonely and rejected. We have got to find some place to connect- physically as well as on social media.
Lysa, God has gifted you in a big way. Your words speak to the heart of what’s been on my mind lately. Thank you so much. I am an uninvited woman, passed over and forgotten. Single for all of my 62 years and would love to do your Uninvited study.
I have been looking for a study that will help me learn to release bitterness from very deep hurts and become a loving and forgiving vessel.
Thank you for this.
I have been struggling with feeling barely tolerated by a group at my school. I have recently set my boundaries to put them at a distance, and am being treated as a villain.
I’ve kept crying out to the Lord asking Him why I feel like I am continually being “pruned” by this situation. And it was in reading this post, I realized that I am not stuck in my growing process, but that I am progressing. In this season, I am being preserved and this ultimately will result in a fine product. His gentle whisper reminded me that He wastes nothing and none of this process is in vain.
Your writing makes me think. I so value it, and am grateful I found you!
I am being crushed by some people in my life but that doesn’t mean I’m not destroyed!! Like I fee! Wow! What a wonderful teaching it hit home!! And I Am worthy of it!
Thank You
I love the analogy and reminder of what each lesson does. I am currently in a season of crushing and sometimes it is a defeated season. One where every breath and movement begs to punish me. But I know in this season God is using my pain for a purpose. That none of it is wasted. Enjoyed this read so much tonight as I was praying and searching for encouragement on google of all things! Thank you!
Lisa – Your words speak to me. I am currently reading Uninvited. The concepts of this book speak to me. When this life turns out to be less than the fairytale we think it will be, we as women tend to seek answers as to why we are unloved and undeserving of that fairytale. I feel empty and alone and I find hope in the words of your book. I have friends going through much the same struggles and questioning who they are and their worth. I want to share this study with them so they can find hope. Thank you so much for your ministry!
Thank you for this teaching. I was struck by the fact that the Olive tree needs both the east AND west winds to grow and be strong. We need the times of refreshing and soaking (east wind) after being pounded by the crushing and powerful hurts (west wind). Would treasure a teaching packet of this study – my women’s Life Group is looking to start a new study and this lesson fits with things we’ve been discussing lately!
Lysa,
Thank you for sharing…I needed to hear that this crushing is for preservation! What a precious truth.
Blessings,
Melody
God is so good. He knows just what we need. He nurtures us and prepares even when we don’t realize it. It’s so comforting to know that through Him, we are already prepared for whatever is coming next. This was a beautiful, thank you!
Hi Lysa
You have just put into words, so much of what I’ve been needing to hear. I’m an Australian 37 year old single mother on disability pension due to a pre leukaemic blood disorder that has lead to some other health issues as well.
I had my son at 16 and struggled even before that being mistreated by those that are meant to love me, which I guess is what put me on the path of single motherhood and abusive relationships so young ( in the absence of affection, we take anything and call it love – Rob Thomas)
Along the way, raising my children, loving them and striving to give them what I never had and struggling to keep my head above water; I didn’t know where my strength came from because I’d not been to church I was six, when Hillsong was hills Christian Life Centre, and I’d not ever eat the bible.
I have toughened my heart because I couldn’t afford for one more tear in my heart, I became bitter and I hated the world so so much; and I had shut down and pushed everyone away that I could, it became easy for me to just say goodbye to people for good.
I don’t what the catalyst was for my breaking down too tears and feeling like it just wasn’t worth the effort, and being angry that I’m being left in this limbo of a half life at 30, so sick on chemo tablets that I couldn’t even look after my own kids, yet had absolutely no one to help us. But I broke down and prayed to who ever, what ever it was that was in charge of it all, to empty me of all that hatred and anger, to give me strength to keep going.
Even though I denied Christ, didn’t want to believe in a God, because I’d seen all the atrocities and heart break seen and felt abuse; but that very night after all the tears and praying, I slept better then I had in a long time, pain free. But that night I had a dream of me and Jesus sitting across from each other( Indian style) no words spoken, but my gosh, the utter peace and tranquility was felt and communicated, he didn’t need to utter a single word to tell me that I’m loved, not alone and to just breath. Even in my dream I shed peaceful, tears of refreshing relief of the weight of the world being released from me; he then smiled at me and raised his hand and blew a sort of gold orb into me, hitting me right in my chest, ribs and gut.
from then on I’ve gradually opened up more to Christianity and my love for the Lord has grown. I still have a long ways to go for sure, I know I need to open myself up to people and make friends, maybe even find a church to go to, I know that this solitude is not healthy, I’m getting there.
But Lysa thank you for explaining the olive tree and the way it relates to what we go through to be who we’re meant to be, I absolutely loved reading the process of what it goes through and how it’s cured, just as we are and the significance of Jesus gathering there under its branches.
Thank you so much, God Bless.
Lauren Nelson
Hi Lauren!
I am on Lysa’s team, and I wanted to write to you to let you know that I am specifically praying over you this minute. That God would continue to reveal Himself to you, that you would find Godly accountable friends who are precious and love you so well. We are cheering for you amidst your journey, precious sister.
Many blessings,
Mary Scott Mercer
LT Ministry team
Thank you,
Last night when I was speaking with Jesus, more thanking him than praying, but I asked him to again help me find a way to heal; and Lysa’s name poped in my head right after I’d had my time with the Lord and I truly believe that that was Jesus showing me where to go for what I need to hear right then in order for me to understand the pain of my past, to grasp and face my fears of letting new faith filled people into my heart and to have a closer, more intimate relationship with Jesus.
Thank you for praying for me
God Bless
Lauren
Today was a “pressing day”. Without fail, annually just after the middle of February ,things begin to feel “off” and I cannot reason why because nothing has recently happened to cause me to be down. And then I realize it would soon be my son’s birthday. It has been 18 years since he passed away and every year an internal clock reminds me that it is… almost his birthday. The same happens in the last few weeks of summer to remind me that it is… almost the anniversary of his death. Other times the memories are sweet, but in these times, they are bittersweet and pressing.
Today was also a “crushing day” as I learned that a dear friend has been diagnosed with cancer.
I simply could not go to Small Group tonight. I needed to be alone so I retreated to my garden, to the olive tree that is home. As I thought about my friend and the battle/journey she would be facing I was reminded that she had gotten me a ticket to hear you speak on the 27th at the Creek in London, Ky. I was not familiar with your ministry so I looked you up and found this particular blog that I needed so much today. I look forward to hearing you speak. My friend will not be able to attend because she will be recovering from her surgery.
This message was just what I needed today. Thank you.
These words spoke to my heart because I am dealing with a 16 year old daughter who is in a bad relationship with a 19 year old boy. I will share these words with her in hope that she will understand that everyone goes throught crushing times, but with faith in GOD things will get better. I pray that God would continue to reveal Himself to me and my daughter. I pray that she will find new friends that have faith in God and that they will help her through these hard teenage years.
I am recently dealing with a situation that involves my daughter.
The history I have with my daughter has been a complex one to say the least. I have always been there for her. I have loved her unconditionally. Whenever she managed to get herself in a jam, I was there to help her work her way out of it. I was a full time and visible mom. Did I make mistakes, absolutely. For some unknown reason, my daughter has always “painted” a picture of me as a bad person. This started when she was very young (7-8 years old). To give you an example, there was an occasion where the parents of one of her friends invited myself and husband out for drinks and dinner. When met them and had a wonderful time. At the close of our gathering, I was floored with the comment that I was met with. “I’m sorry but I have a very hard time believing that you physically abuse your child”. I almost fell out of my chair. I asked the women what she was talking about. She explained that my daughter told her that, “I punched her in the mouth and attempted to strangle her”. “We felt it was important to meet you so we knew what step we needed to take as we like your child very much. However, after meeting you, we cannot believe this story to be the truth”.
These types of stories have never stopped through the years. If and when I discussed with my daughter, she would blow up at me. What she likes to do is fabricate details about what I have said or done to make excuses or reasons to walk away from me; hang up on me; or have me leave. This ultimately ends with an estrangement between us for an extended period of time.
Recently, she was visiting me. I will not go into all the details but I had just taken time off of work in order to try and obtain medical help for her continuing problems. She had called me from the side of the road stating that she had been abandoned by her husband (he was deployed) knowing that she couldn’t drive home from Florida. She was numb from the neck down to her feet, couldn’t drive and had her small child in the car. I was driving from Georgia to get her with my Dad, in order to pick her and my grandchild up and drive her car back. We spent two days with doctors and ER visits to determine what the issues were. I heard nothing but how her husband left her knowing she couldn’t drive, didn’t believe her medical problems, was not supporting her, allowed the Government to deport him knowing her problems and how she was thinking of leaving and taking the child with her. To cut to the chase, no medical conditions were found at all. I was then accused of taking her to an inadequate medical facility with quack doctors. I then was “monsterizing” her husband, my dog was going to “rip” off my grandchild’s face because I was more on the side of the dog than my grandchild; my parent’s stated my son-in-law was not welcome in the house; I was comparing my son-in-law to my ex-husband, etc. etc. None of this was true or valid. I attempted to talk with her but she was building up into a frenzy and started throwing my grandchild onto the floor and pulling his clothes off to put him in the shower (this resulted in him bumping his head on the bed rail- he told her she hurt him but she said she didn’t). She then told my grandchild that she hoped he was happy because my dog was going to attack her because he was crying. While my grandson was in the shower, my daughter had now put herself into a frenzy and was throwing clothes into her suitcase. I asked where my son-in-law was as he should have arrived- she didn’t know. She looked at me sitting on the floor and sarcastically stated, “Oh, so we are going to sit here and hope that everything is going to magically fix itself are we”? I looked at my daughter and asked her in a quiet voice why she hated me so. This brought her to a climax. I should have known better than to ask the question. She grabbed her phone and called my son-in-law and stated I was creating a huge fight in front of my grandchild and she needed to get out of the house immediately. She stated the “why do you hate me” statement (which she did in front of my grandchild ironically). The statements went on and on, so I left the room.
I let my parents know that she was working herself up into an issue again. I was the primary focus of her attack. I just needed a break from the personalization. When I stated that she told me that my son-in-law was not welcome in the house, my mom walked into the bedroom to confront my daughter on why she said this. My daughter immediately called me a liar and said that she “never” said that and I was only causing problems.
As you can see from just the tip of this issue, there are some psychological problems going on here. A manufacturing of medical issues for attention; a manufacturing of drama for whatever reason; a “monsterization” of me for whatever reason. In the past, I have apologized for issues that I have not created in order to smooth the problem and be able to maintain a relationship with my daughter and family. My daughter does not believe in apologies. She always sees herself as the victim and harbors hurt and anger for a very long time. She sits back and waits for it to be fixed by someone else. I know that obtaining help is paramount for her but when I read this blog, I immediately thought of her and how it might be useful to us both.
I was hoping that it would enlighten her as to how and why disappointment, anger, frustration and hurt are all apart of our daily lives. We cannot expect people in our lives to meet our every expectation or else! Learning to handle these situations with humility and learning from them is important. Bitterness is not to be retained within our hearts or daily lives. Let it go before it eats us alive. Extending forgiveness and understanding is all apart of the process. Forgetting shortcomings and focusing on goodness brings more to our lives. Harboring and holding onto negativity, anger and bitterness will only keep us distance from God and true peace. Learning how to release and accept the tribulations within our lives brings acceptance of ourself and others.
I have not given up on my daughter. I believe your message is one that may bring her some clarity. In the meantime, I am still showing her love. I am demonstrating that anger, frustration and arguments are part of life but they do not mean the end of relationships. I believe the bible study could be something we could both do together.
Lysa, thank you very much for sharing this amazingly enlightening truth regarding the difficult, yet necessary, refining process that God allows us to endure when faced with insurmountable challenges.
My husband and I repeatedly endure financial attack after financial attack to the point of wondering whether God genuinely cares about us and will provide for our needs. Currently, I am unable to work, as my husband’s truck broke down four months ago, and we do not have the money to have it repaired. He has been driving my car to work, and I am very upset that God would continue to allow the enemy to steal from us. I often feel as if my back is against the wall, and the walls are closing in on me. I know that God loves us and hears our prayers; however, I struggle with attempting to understand why He will not move on our behalf. I am a person who desires to fix everything, yet I have no battle plan for solving this issue, aside from constant prayer and praise.
Thank you for the encouraging inspiration that you willingly reveal. I desperately needed to read this today.
Thank you for reposting this. As I was reading this today I remembered hearing these things before. As I looked in my bible, I wrote some of these applications and they were noted to be from you! Haha! No wonder I heard it before! I have learned such deep truths and love your way of bringing the common heartaches of women to the foot of the cross with hope. One of the most meaningful studies ever was, When Women Say Yes to God. I love the mess, Messiah, message teaching. I use that so much in my life and in teaching the women in my single mom’s bible study. We have watched that video several times. I would love to have “Uninvited” as well. This message you shared is right where I am at….God I know you’re there but no one else (at least in leadership) has problems like me. I know that is not true, but like you said, we don’t see it on FB. I am being pressed to be made into a fine wine that needs to age and be patient, but wish sometimes God called me to just be juice sometime! 🙂 Anyway, God bless you for your obedience and your gift of being relatable. I have received so much from your precious heart. <3
I want to read your book. What you write about is right where I’m at. Seeking to understand how God is all I need in the midst of hurt.
I literally just had a friend mention your book earlier today!
Through this teaching I was reminded of a sermon I heard this summer regarding the olive press. Earlier in the summer I stopped at a California mission on my way to the coast and I came across a wooden olive press. Your words on being pressed but not crushed hit home as I now have this picture of a heavy, wooden olive press firmly in my head from the mission. I’ve struggled with unforgiveness towards a family member over the past two years and the struggle to forgive and release can feel very hard-pressed at times- almost to the point of being crushed. But God! When I start to believe Satan’s lies I begin to think I’m being crushed when in reality it’s just hard pressed. God will not allow me to be crushed- though he allows pressing. Thanks for this reminder!
I would love to lead a group of ladies through your study!
After 25 years of marriage, my husband has told me that he is considering leaving me. He said that he has “prepared” since last September (5 months). He has agreed to do another counseling segment- for 6 months- and then re-evaluate our relationship.
Wow! Every time I remember his words, I tear up and usually cry. (Yes, I’m crying right now. I don’t care what anyone around me thinks. Let them. 30 years of my life may be slipping away).
As I read about the olive tree, I reflect on the many experiences we have been through. The bitter attitude and grudge holding that I learned from my mother. Out 2 dominant personalities clashing regularly. All the signs, dreams and opportunities that have been presented to me during the past year or so, signaling a major change; trying to prepare me. The stranger who reintroduced me to Lysa last week (at a massage therapy location).
I truly see marriage as a covenant, and I don’t want to let go. But maybe God has a new plan for me knowing that I will be “let go”.
I feel that the past 25 plus years has been the east and west winds, and now I am being cured; ready to be pressed. Hopefully, I will finally be valuable and useful.
Funny thing is, I didn’t try olives until I was well into our marriage (not something that I grew up with). Now, I love them! And I love olive oil. Ironic.
I am currently doing a bible study on the book of John and it does reference the Olive branch. Thank you so much for this visual as I use these pieces of information that God has provided for me to better understand His love each and everyday and the ability to better share His love, grace, and blessings with others—-especially the children He has blessed my life with. Thank you so much for this.
I was just praying for peace. Something that has been rare in my 53 years here on earth. I saw a pop up on my phone from Pinterest about anxiety about the time I said amen. One thing then another led me to where I am here posting this. I have no family, no friends, no church home. I only have my husband ,and he cheated on me for almost a year at which time he treated me as if he hated me and was very cruel if I was lucky enough to be in the same room with him. Maybe it was middle aged crazies. But he is the last man I ever thought would do this. I have known him since our teen years. I chose to stick it out and forgive him. But my heart and spirit are crushed. We are doing great for a few weeks then he gets angry beyond what is needed. We went to a counseling seminar but may need more than that. I think I may need your other book as well because I was in church here where we have lived in a small town for some time which we are not from ,and after years of trying to fit in I gave up. So did he. I was one of those kids who were rejected in school and made fun of etc. An only child. Recently found my half sister and she shows no interest. Panic attacks and anxiety and high blood pressure and fear and wondering if even God could love someone who obviously must be a pretty awful person , threaten to overwhelm me. What I would give to know God loves me and isn’t just about rules. To feel His presense and love. To know He feels mercy and grace toward me. What I would give for true Christian friends who believe the Bible and are not all about prosperity but rather about love and the Lord. I saw what was supposed to be. Christian counselor once for our marriage, but she said I have been through so much rejection in my life in various ways and was so upset that she actually was afraid I may kill myself. But I assured her I would never do that as I am too afraid it may send me to hell. Plus I loved someone who did commit suicide and if they had only waited a few months, their life would have changed and they would have had what they needed. I saw the things change that would have made the difference. But now, it’s too late. I know the same could happen for me. Things could change. I keep telling myself that God is trying to change me in this or working on something. My hope is small, but it’s still here. Pray for my marriage, health, and me please. I am in a mess in every area in my life. Even financially. I’m afraid. I’m scared, lonely and sad. God bless all who see this and pray for me. Thank you in advance. M.
Oh M…
I am deeply sorry and sad as I read this. I would love to pray for you.
Lord Jesus,
I come before You today to pray for this precious, hurting woman. I pray that You would reveal Yourself to her in all the ways she dreams about and more, and that she would find the strength to truly seek You with all of her heart. Allow her to know that You hear her and see her – You know she’s hurting, and it hurts You too. We pray for restoration in her marriage, and trust and intimacy to reignite between them. Let them know that without You as their solid foundation in their marriage, it will be extremely hard. I pray for Godly, wise, and accountable friends for her who can always point her back to You and Your promises. I know that if it’s not good yet, You are not done with this woman or her husband. Open her heart to encounter You in a deeper way. We trust You. Amen.
Many blessings,
Mary Scott Mercer
LT ministry team
I currently just finished you I am study and would love to have the Uninvited Bundle for a new study to work on, I love your teachings Lysa as you are so easy to relate too also I joined the facebook group and was thoroughly impressed with it my leader even sent a card ; how wonderful is that! Thank you so much for your blog and hopefully there will be more distributers of christian books in Canada so that we have more resources to choose from and purchase !!
Lysa,
Your words soothe a crushed spirit..perhaps a bit of hope? Nope, not feeling it yet. Abba and I are still discussing they whys and wherefores. I can become so crushed by those that I love so much. I continually look to see what I have done wrong for them to be so upset with me and I see so blaringly my faults and shortfalls… I so want to run and hide… feel so worthless as I have hurt my grown children so when they were young. Yes, I have asked for forgiveness, but the enemy keeps reminding me the reactions I receive now are because of what I did. I am trying so desperately to see His truth not that runs around in my head, but alas, I am crushed and desiring relief..
I had the gut wrenching sob this morning and now feel worn out, exhausted and useless. After studying about rejection, knowing it to not be true of my Abba, why does it continue to hurt so badly? How does one really forgive oneself and truly to be able to move on freely and not look back feeling condemned? I just so want to be accepted by those close to me.. I so want to be wanted and cherished…
I am sorry… this truly has touched my heart and I thank you for allowing Abba to read my mail.
Blessings on your ministry and please continue on
Bless you
Annie
What a beautiful reminder of Gods love for us and His wonderful gift of Grace. Even in the times of our lives when we are being “crushed”. He does not forsake us and His will is for us to grow with Him, trust in Him.
Thank you for sharing this encourageing teaching. It helps to turn the focus from down at the hurt to up at the Healer of my soul. I’ve recently learned that one meaning for my name is. “Unwanted”, and have been experiencing a desert, unwanted, uninvited season of life. Striving to keep my focus on the Lord and not on this world is what is keeping me going.
I work with junior high and high school girls at my church and have had many conversations lately about these very things. I would love the study to do with some of them who have been experiencing crushing times lately…broken relationships, friendships changing or ending, parents splitting up. I feel like this book would really help me to know how to clearly encourage and help them.
This particular portion of your book, Uninvited, was exactly what i read this morning from my journaling i had done when i read it a few months ago. This book helped pull me through one of the most pivotal points in my life. Struggling thru a difficult marriage of 28 years and trying desperately to find the strength and courage i needed to realize Gods path for me. It was like stepping under the waterfall of refreshing cool water to reread it this morning. My sweet sister knows i am going thru a disappointment today and she mustve shared it with my sweet niece who shot me this website in a text!!! God speaks again! I love it when He does this. I am comforted and assured of His presence and promise to always be with me. Love this book and will continue to use it thru my life. Thank you Lysa. Thank You God!!
Lysa,
Thank you for sharing this. I am going through a divorce and a legal issue where I should have been the victim, yet because I chose to protect the other party involved, I was made the offender. I have felt like I am drowning the past few months because of the huge impact this has had on my life- a crushing trial. I am starting over again from scratch with 2 children. Reading this today lifted me up and made me feel like I can make it by reaching out to the Lord. I have felt very alone and this helped me remember that no matter how difficult this trial is, to reach out and put all my trust in Him- and that He is using this to grow my relationship with him and preserve my heart and spirit.
Thank you for your words today. I needed to read.
Thank you for such an encouraging lesson, Lysa! I’ve been dwelling in the land of the “uninvited” for a few months now. It’s not necessarily a fun place to live, but I’m also appreciating the journey. The enemy of my soul has done his best to bring hard days & whisper lies of rejection, but through God’s power, I have been able to refute those lies & journey forward. I may stumble for a moment, but I get my head about me again & move on. One thing the Holy Spirit has helped me to do is to determine not to waste this season in my life. I want to process through this time & emerge from it stronger in the Lord & able to share with others & influence & encourage them in their season of feeling uninvited. I so could benefit from this Uninvited study if you’re still doing a give-away. What a rich blessing it would be at a time of great hunger & need. May your ministry continue to be ever-so-blessed as you vulnerably share your story & life experiences to point others toward our only Hope. I’m a huge fan of you, but especially of the One you so faithfully point us to in our life journeys. Thank you, Lysa!
I needed to hear this today. I have felt crushed since our miscarriage in February. We had been trying for two years prior to this pregnancy so it was such a wonderful surprise that turned to such a great sorrow. It’s hard to traverse through life without being bitter as more pregnancies get announced, especially the ones around when our little one would have been due. This post helped me to see that there is purpose in it, and I can hope for the days when this sorrow can be used. It made me think of the lilac bushes in my yard that need a cold winter inorder to have a beautiful bloom in the spring. I hoping for the days when I can see the fruits of this trying time.