So why am I surprised when I ask God to refine me or reveal the sin in my life.... and..... He does. When I see my sin manifest itself, it is just plain ugly and I have to get rid of it. What happens after He reveals it matters the most..... I must ask for forgiveness, repent, go to battle, take up my authority in Christ, receive God's grace and mercy..... then turn from the sin.
The power of the cross..... it is beautiful. My sin, for Jesus' holiness. My ashes, for His beauty. My mourning, for His gladness. My pain, for His love.

This is really starting to make sense. He has given me victory! Things I have struggled with time and time again are manifesting, but this time instead of letting them be and fighting the battle alone.... I am repenting, claiming victory over the sin and changing the patterns. God is breaking the strongholds.... He is transforming my life because I am making myself available to Him. May this become a habit and I choose Him first. Who knows what He will do!!!