Have you ever been just so grateful for God's love and goodness that you had to share it with others? I'm basking in His light and love today! I just came home from a scary doctor's appointment, but with an all-clear diagnosis. I am on spring break; the Florida skies are azure blue with not a cloud in the sky. The March air feels crisp like the first bite of a tart apple, and the spring forward time change has me energized.
I am giving God all the praise this morning, and I am reminded of this verse,"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen" (Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV).
To be honest, I haven't felt so free and just plain good in such a very long time. I have such big hope in my heart for my future!
I have had some glimpses of this joy. But I had gotten used to years of disappointment that I think I somehow believed that I wasn't going to get the emotional healing and the blessings that I watched other friends and family enjoy. Not that I wasn't happy for them, but I wondered if I was ever going to find joy again too?
I won't bore you with all my past struggles, but to name a few over the last ten years has been: a sick mother, divorce, death of a daughter, and the grip of fear over my life. I have floundered through these difficult losses faithfully holding on to Christ's words slowly making progress as God renewed my mind. "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2 ESV).
Over the last ten years, God has transformed me. Through daily Bible study, Celebrate Recovery, life verse memorization, regular church attendance, Christian counseling, and a really loving husband who loves me with an agape love (unconditional love), I have finally found healing. He has given me countless blessings, and a renewed mind and outlook on life with hope for a brighter future.
Here's just a few of the things God has done. He has given me a thousand chances when I messed up to get over my fears and gain a deep faith. He has taught me to recognize how the devil works and to combat him on my knees with Christ's help. He has taught me to wait on His faithfulness and to declare His promises over my life. God has shown me that it is never ever too late to come to Him and to try again and to start over. God is so loving and forgiving. "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV).
So be encouraged today, my friend. Don't give up! Keep chasing Christ and His will for your life.
Be Blessed,
AllisonD
