I think the hardest part to being a follower of Christ is learning that what you think is going to happen - you know, all those hard fought for plans you make daily - isn't really what Christ has in store for you.
The last two years, starting in early 2011, Josh and I began to set forth a new route for our lives. I won't rehash most of what my last few posts have been about, but I will point out that whenever we thought we had the right path, God stopped us a few steps in.
Josh and I had begun to make plans for this coming New Year. Our new baby is due the end of January and we had thought that by that time, with certain incomes, I'd be able to finally stay at home and take care of both Ethan and the new one while focusing on some of my dreams - photography, substitute teaching to gain experience most schools want, being home with my children, etc. - but once again we received news that what we had planned wasn't going to work out.
Now most people at this point probably think, "why don't they just give it up?" But let me tell you, every time MY plans have been "crushed" God has provided something bigger and better in its place. Is it hard to swallow? Yes!! I want so badly to live out my dreams! Is it frustrating? You betcha - I'm all about making preparations and getting things ready months before in my head that when things don't go as planned, my hopes get dashed! I just have to remind myself of Jeremiah 29:11 "'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the LORD. 'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.'"
I'm sad that I will have to go back to work after our new little one is born, but I pray and hold onto the hope that God's plan is to give us the ability to send me home to raise my children.
The Christian walk isn't easy. It is full of obstacles and trials, but the important thing for anyone to remember in this is simply cling on to what God has for you, even if you can't fully understand or see it, because in the end His grace is more than enough than anything of this world. Even if God's plan for me is to never come home, I am redeemed, and that is more than enough than any dream or desire I have for myself.
Prayer Requests:
My morning sickness has begun to waver (thank God!) but I'm still getting sick - pray for complete relief from it.
Josh has been given the opportunity to start working with the youth at our Church, we're building it from the ground up - prayers all around for everyone involved.
In Christ,
~Colleen :)
