Have you ever hit rock bottom in your life? Have you prayed for something or someone for so long but feel that God is just ignoring you? Is there a situation going on in your life right now that makes you question the very existence of God?
You're not alone.
This summer I am going to yet another wedding of yet another friend of mine. I am beyond excited for her because she truly has an amazing love story, but I will sit through that wedding with this thought in the back of my mind: "When's it my turn?"
God knows the one desire in life I have is to be a good wife. Not making tons of money, not to become famous, not even to have kids. Nope, I want to share my life with someone and serve with them in ministry. [And if kids DO come along, well don't think I haven't already picked names and nursery decor. Guess that's just the planner in me!]
But that is something I have been praying about for years now. Years. Lately I have come to a point where, honestly, I'm just tired of praying about it anymore. It's not that I don't believe in prayer at all. In fact for every prayer I prayed while dating someone that I wanted God to make him "the one", I know he saved me from heartache I'll never know.
It's more an exhausting feeling. You know, when you keep doing something over and over, eventually it just wears you down.
Now. That's the whiny part.
Am I a sad, mopey, whiny ball of mush that can't go on? Nope. Am I mad at God for not bringing me my husband the way I think he should come? No. Am I set on becoming a bitter old cat lady? No...if you know me at all, you know I think cats are of the devil!
Several weeks ago, I got an email from my friend Lori asking me if I wanted to read a book about God's promises and then tell you about it. It couldn't have come at a better time.
Here's the good part.
God's promises to me are the same regardless of my circumstances and in spite of how I feel. HE knows right where I am. He's not forgotten me. He loves me unending.
The book, God's Shelter For Your Storm, is so encouraging. Author Sheila Walsh points all of life's difficulties back to one of God's 3,000 promises. It's not just "feel good" writing, it's Bible based.
But don't just take my word for it. Hear from Sheila herself:
Through reading the book, I came across a very encouraging point.
God tells us that He'll give us peace.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27God tells us that He'll give us strength.
My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9God tells us that He'll provide for us.
And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. John 6:35Those, by themselves, are pretty encouraging, but let's re-read those again and here's what stuck out to me.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27
My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9
And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. John 6:35
God doesn't give us sloppy seconds. He doesn't give us "Miss-America-World-Peace" or a watered down superhero strength or croutons for sustenance.
He gives us HIMSELF! HIS peace, HIS grace, HIS strength and He even offers His very self to sustain us! It really doesn't get more encouraging than that!
Do you need some encouragement? Is there someone who could use this book? I've been provided with a book to give away to one of you! Here's how:
-Leave me a comment saying why you want this book.
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6 comments:
I love how transparent you are Staci and I know God has amazing plans for you. I would love to read this book and then, more importantly, I'd love to give it to a friend who is struggling with getting pregnant. We face so many potential battles as women that can make us feel like we don't measure up, but it's all part of God's plan that is beyond anything we can comprehend :)
I loved this post! I've been struggling with praying for things I want, only to realize later that they were definitely not what God wanted for me. I'm 25 and not married, and like you, I do wonder sometimes what God is thinking. My secular friends think 25 is too young to even consider marriage, but many of my Christian friends married right out of college, and sometimes it does make me feel left out. I want to serve God in whatever capacity he sees fit for me, but I would love to do so with someone to hold my hand along the way. ;) Anyway, I resonated with your post, and I'd love a chance to read this book! egholtrop at gmail dot com
Staci, you don't know how badly I needed to read this!!! I know we don't chat much these days, miss that, but can totally relate to you in the seasons of life we're both in. There's such power in prayer and know I don't pray about this area of my life nearly as much as I should.
Oh, Staci, I completely hear you. I waver between giving up on my dream of marrying and holding on to hope. I'm glad this book has been an encouragement to you.
Hey Staci, Thanks for sharing you message, sorry to hear of some of the things you have been going through. I really would love to read this book and share it with my grandmother who just lost her husband of almost 60 years! The whole family is so upset about loosing him! My granddad was not only one of the best men I know but he raised me as if I were his daughter. My husband, Laney, and I have also been dealing with our beloved dogs illness as well, she has lymphoma. We have financial issues that have almost torn us apart! I need a pick me up:) even if I don't win I will keep you in my prayers and please keep us in yours! Thanks Carman Anderson
I would love this. I'm dealing with some things with my children (and upcoming adopted child) that I think this would be perfect timing for. Also? Loved your post!
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