“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” | 2 Corinthians 5:17

In the midst of what has felt like a huge spiritual battle, I heard the words “breaking free.” As I inquired of the Lord as to what was happening, I was reminded of the difficult process that the caterpillar undergoes before emerging from the cocoon as a breathtaking butterfly.

The struggle is always the most intense for the caterpillar as it is about to break free from all that enclosed around him. I sense that there are others out there who have been in what feels like a fight for their lives. Even in what feels like an enormous struggle, know that you are about to break free from old mindsets, lies of the enemy, and fear. Your struggle has not been in vain; you have been in the process. The Father has been doing a deep, hard work on your inner man, but through it all, you are being transformed into a beautiful butterfly: a new creation.  It can be a painful process to shed old skin, so to speak. However, the beauty – and even the struggle – will be worth it all as you emerge from the dark place of the cocoon as a sight to behold.

I see a host of beautiful butterflies emerging from what seems to be out of nowhere. Many will look and marvel, wondering where they came from. I am reminded of David, who was just a lowly shepherd boy who took care of his father’s sheep (1 Samuel 16). Even in his ‘hiddenness,’ God was doing a great work in David, as He prepared the boy’s heart for something greater.

I sense that the Father has been preparing many who have been overlooked by man, yet remained faithful to the will of the Lord. These people have been tending the sheep in the secret place, but many will be called to the frontlines and soon be given a position of favor and honor. Be encouraged; you are not overlooked by your heavenly Father. He has been preparing you for greatness, and He will certainly reward your faithfulness of heart.