Beauty for Ashes

God has a sense of humor.  When I least expect it, He reminds me that He is still working in my life and showing me what He wants me to learn in my area of focus.   I was just casually reading a Christian fiction book, Virginia Hearts, for fun  (I don't typically even buy fiction; but just bought some since it was on clearance); and the main character mentioned the 'Beauty for Ashes' song by Crystal Lewis.  It was so long ago since I had heard her songs, that I had even forgotten that it was the title song of an album she had out by that same name.  The lyrics are once again, as expected based on the title, so well related to my theme:

He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fear
Gladness for mourning
Peace for despair

When sorrow seems to surround you
When suffering hangs heavy o'er your head
Know that tomorrow brings
Wholeness and healing
God knows your need
Just believe what He said

He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fear
Gladness for mourning
Peace for despair

When what you've done keeps you from moving on
When fear wants to make itself at home in your heart
Know that forgiveness brings
Wholeness and healing
God knows your need
Just believe what He said

He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fear
Gladness for mourning
Peace for despair

I once was lost but God has found me
Though I was bound I've been set free
I've been made righteous in His sight
A display of His splendor all can see

He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fear
Gladness for mourning
Peace for despair

And, in line with the best example of how God raised beauty out of the ashes, the album also has a song entitled "The Beauty of the Cross".   Since God could turn something as horribly devastating as the crucifixion into the beauty of the hope through resurrection, He can surely turn all the brokenness of my life into beauty.