For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems sad and painful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness [right standing with God and a lifestyle and attitude that seeks conformity to God’s will and purpose]. So then, strengthen hands that are weak and knees that tremble. Cut through and make smooth, straight paths for your feet [that are safe and go in the right direction], so that the leg which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather may be healed. -Hebrews‬ ‭12:11-13‬ ‭(amp)

“I will not make a friend with the mere shadow of my own being! Good-bye Self! I deny you, and will do my best every day to leave you behind me.” -George MacDonald

There is a shadow that haunts us. It is the very one we feed. But seek conformity to God’s will and purpose, and in this walk be freed.