I sit here a little in awe. A year ago, I didn’t see this coming. All I knew was that God had revealed quite clearly to me that somewhere in 2019 he would bring the man he wanted for me into my life. I fought him at first. It seemed selfish to really focus in on my personal life in that way for whatever reason. But with a sigh, I submitted to Him and put bridal imagery all over my vision board for 2019.
Now, here I sit. It’s my wedding day. And I am in awe of all that has transpired this year, all the miraculous ways God showed up and moved pieces perfectly into place for this very moment. I feel His joy for me today. I feel His presence. I feel His rich blessing and tender mercy and yes, even parental pride. He is celebrating with me today, and I am celebrating with Him.
The man I am marrying is amazing in so many ways. I feel like God is showing off every time I see a new way we’re so perfect for each other. It’s easy. It’s fun, and he’s running after God as hard as I am. My eyes well with joyful tears as I write this.
But why I share this, why I write this for you today, is because I want you to believe. I want you to realize God has miracles of beauty and joy available for each of us. Out of the ashes of hurt and heartache, He brings redemption and joy. Out of a place of feeling lost and hopeless, He brings purpose and vision.
The Lord has victories in store for you, amazing victories that will take your breath away. Victories that may come when you least expect it, or when you’ve about given up on finding that breakthrough. As you keep praying and keep pressing on in faith, those clouds will dissipate and joy will flood into your very soul.
When these moments happen, both big and small, mark them. Do something that reminds you that God showed up for you. It can be a moment, a special dinner, a card, a journal–anything really. But mark that celebratory moment with God, thanking him for his gentle mercies.
Then when the next tunnel in life comes your way (because we all know they will come), you have your touchstones, your memories and badges of glory of how God has blessed and been faithful to you before. He will have your back again. Claim His promises and cling to them, using scriptures that speak into the goodness of his nature to infuse you with faith.
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us a glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17).
So today I mark a moment, a profound god-given moment in my life that will change it forever. And I am reminded of how amazing the Father we serve is. How much his heart is to bless us–to bless you! May all of our faith grow through the journey.
FOR FURTHER THOUGHT
Marking key moments in your life is a visual, tangible way to see the growth and progress God is making in your life. When the enemy of negativity, fear and worthlessness attack, your spiritual monuments remind you of what is actually true: that you are loved, valued and accepted right where you're at. And that God is not done working in and through you yet!
Is there anything you need to celebrate in your life? A moment where God showed up and helped you, however small? Think of a way to acknowledge and embrace that moment. For some creative ideas, check our our free resource, CREATE SPIRITUAL MONUMENTS.
PRAYER
Lord, you know when I sit and when I rise. You perceive my thoughts from afar. Your love for me is unaltered by anything or anyone. Thank you! Help me to honor both the small and big moments in my life when you help me to experience breakthrough, growth or sometimes, even just venture out of bed. All of these steps matter to you, no matter how small. May they matter to me, too. May I have eyes to see and eyes to hear what you are achieving in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.
ABOUT BARB LOWNSBURY
Barb is a speaker, author, and entrepreneur. She has Bachelor’s Degrees in International History and in Education, and a Master’s Degree in Education. She has spoken at conferences and taught classes throughout the U.S. about faith, relationships, leadership and courage through trial. Her book, Using What’s Broken to Boldly Shine, is a powerful read of transformation through trial. Her blogging is focused on giving people encouragement and strength for their personal journey. Barb serves as the Executive Director for The Dented Fender Ministry and runs a successful real estate and development company. She currently resides in Dayton, Ohio with her husband and blended family of seven.
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