God speaks

Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away.

Each time he said, " My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness."

So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses,

So that the power of Christ can work through me.

That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses,

and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles

that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

-2 Corinthians 12:8-10

So, all last week I was just really struggling with NJ. It seemed like we were really butting heads. (I know, a grown woman butting heads with a 6 month old!) But, I was just having a really hard time. I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and TIRED! I just had the tears welling up and sitting there waiting for something to push me over the edge.

Sunday came and we went to church as usual, and sometimes during the worship part of the service someone will come up and read scripture and say what God has put on their heart. So, this gal came up and she read the above scripture and then proceeded to say that she felt God was telling her that there was a mom who was feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and TIRED!!!! And, she felt God was telling her to read that scripture to remind that mom that God's grace is enough!

Needless to say those tears, that were sitting there for a few days, sprang to life! I just wanted to raise my hand and say, "YOU'RE TALKING TO ME!!!!!" . It was pretty awesome how God speaks through others. I was to overwhelmed with my issues to ask God for help in yet he was able to speak to me and encourage me through someone else! I just felt so incredibly blessed, and it has been a constant reminder this week that, when I'm struggling, I need to ask God for help and lean on him. His grace is enough!

The Lord is my shepherd

"The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to His name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessing. Surely Your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever."

~Psalms 23:1-6

With all thats happening with the Government right now this verse came to my mind. It brings me such peace to know that God has my back! That WHATEVER happens He is here to guide and direct me and watch over me. It is so comforting to know that. With God I have ALL that I need!

God is GOOD!

When we open our hands and our hearts and let go of those things we once clung to so selfishly, abundant life will come pouring in.

So, it's been almost a year. I has by no means been easy. Gary has been out to sea since January...God has been so GOOD!!!! I've been learning so much over the last 9 months! He has shown me so much Grace and love. Every good and perfect thing is a gift from God. Nothing "belongs" to me. God has blessed me greatly. Even through all the tough times and trials God has pollished me and refinded me and brought me out of the fire! He is so GOOD!

*Prayer*

*Such a prayer offered in FAITH will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And, if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven.* ~James 5:15

*It is so hard to step out on faith. But, I feel like I'm doing really well with it. (for now) Every day I try to give Zach to God...even though I just want to be selfish and try to do things on my own...but I know that's not the way. It's very impressive to see how GOD works though...

On Thursday we went into the doctors and we had an ultra-sound done, and the outcome was so amazing and encouraging!!!! We went from 0 fluid, to 2 cm of fluid, to 5 cm in 2 weeks. God is sooooo good....I am just continuously amazed by his faithfulness and love!