A couple of years ago, I wrote down some of my experiences and self published two booklets. I told my story at various churches and shelters.
The story began with my young adult experiences twenty years ago. My daughter pointed out to me that I was no longer the person in those stories, that I was more than that now. It was a very profound observation for a college age girl to make.
If I were to tell the story now, it would be about the growth I’ve experienced over the past ten years. The opportunities God has granted me have given me a new outlook. I agree with my daughter that I have come a long way.
One thing to keep in mind is that your story keeps changing.
It takes a lifetime to tell that story. Not all of us will have dramatic stories that are made into movies, but each one is worth telling, just the same.
If you are facing challenges at this time, know that the story is not over. You may see things in a different light ten or twenty years from now. Don’t get discouraged. There is always hope.
God began His work in you at Creation. He has His hand on you today. He is building your future for tomorrow. When you were born, all of creation rejoiced. When you leave, you will make the journey of a lifetime. You have planted seeds that when nurtured, will grow into blossoms for others to enjoy.
For all the heartache, someone will be there to bring comfort. For all that was lost, joy will be found. Confidence that was stripped away will be replaced with wings to soar. Yesterday you cried but today you will smile. No more will you fade into the background and let life pass you by. You will find purpose and join the dance.
One day, you will see your loved ones again. Distance will be replaced with hugs. The one you are seeking will be found. You will cherish what you’ve been given and give to those who need a hand. Relationships that were broken will be mended. No more will you keep words of encouragement to yourself. You will speak words that will bring wholeness to the brokenhearted.
When God has touched your heart, you will love instead of hate. Where there was strife, there will be stillness. There is a time for everything under heaven. For today, choose life.
Recently, I read several articles about a couple of pastors who seem to have gone a little to far. What may have begun from good intentions of relating to people has turned into irreverence.
It’s always easier to tell people what they want to hear but the truth can still be told in love without sidestepping crucial matters.
While reaching out in non-traditional ways works with those who would not otherwise be open to the Gospel, let’s also give due respect to the many pastors over the years who have served faithfully. Remember things like respecting our elders.
The media has opened doors that also come with responsibility. We have been given a great gift. We must be careful not to get caught up in becoming just another celebrity.
God knows and people are watching to see if we are consistent in our walk. These are just a few observations I’ve made while thinking about what I’ve seen. It makes me as an individual want to make a conscious effort to be a better person.
For the first time in my life, it is quiet. The kids are grown and my husband is at work. After our move to another state, I am patiently waiting to see what job comes next. At first it was fun having time off. Then, I became restless while searching for employment. Now, I’m just waiting on God.
God knows my talents, education, experience and abilities. He know my desires. He is giving me an opportunity to rest after years of taking care of everyone else. My needs are met. I have my dog, a little yappy three pound chihuahua to keep me company.
I don’t know what the future holds or where He is leading but for now I’m trying to listen for God’s voice in the quiet moments.
In today’s world, it seems that life as we knew it in our generation has changed. We had a strong foundation and survived life’s challenges.
Although there has been strife since the beginning of time, there are issues that are unique to our era. First, the developments since 1900 to today have been more than any other era has ever seen. In technology, we went from covered wagons to cars and going to the moon. We went from outhouses to electricity, telephones and the Internet on computers.
Socially, we have come a long way from understanding that slavery oppresses people to civil equality. Women are now being recognized for their talents. We try to be accepting of all our differences.
The more difficult concerns are that our young people are being pulled in so many different directions. We try to give them a firm foundation but once they strike out on their own, they make their own choices that we have no control of.
We may see danger ahead but our warnings are not heeded. This is where prayer comes in. The one thing we can do is pray. Pray every single day. Pray that God will watch over our grown young adults and keep them from harm. Pray that they will remember that they are never alone. Pray that they will remember that they are loved. Pray for all our kids. They need us more than e er before.
Many people look for scripture promise passages for hope to life’s challenges. The book of Isaiah is filled with beautiful imagery of God speaking to His people.
Parents throughout time have prayed for their adult children to return to the faith of their childhood. As young adults feel out their independence and strike out on their own, they can be pulled from influences in many directions. Parents cannot live their children’s lives for them but can pray and trust God to keep a watchful eye and guiding hand over them.
The scripture passage I find comfort in is Isaiah 43:5-7:
“Fear not, for I am with you. I will bring your descendants from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, “Give them up. Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth.”. Everyone who is called by my name whom I have created for my glory I have formed him, yes I have made him.”
When my children were infants I dedicated them to the Lord. Just as parents did in the time of Moses, Samuel and Jesus, we continue to raise our children in the Lord. Do not lose hope. God will remember that day and hear our prayers. Even in tragedy, He will not forget. Hold onto the promises of old.
I have an old Annie Herring record that I’ve had since I was a kid. She wrote a song called “Hand on Me” that is beautiful. I probably can’t post the words because of copyright laws but would encourage you to find the lyrics at lyrics.com.
When I was a parole/probation agent I dealt with hurting families on a daily basis. They were angry, frustrated and hurting. They were unable to fix their adult loved one and looked to the criminal justice system for relief. They were discouraged when they didn’t see a change.
It’s easy to blame workers, God or ourselves when we painfully watch a loved one self destruct. Some even complete treatment programs whether religious or self help and continue to relapse.
I’m not a licensed or certified counselor. I’m just sharing my observation from seven years in the criminal justice field. There are no pat answers. Find comfort in knowing that God has his hands on each of us. Trust him to work in the life of your loved one. Do what you need to do to have peace in your own home even if it means a time out. Pray daily. Even though it’s hard, don’t blame workers and trust them to do their job.
One day, maybe years away, something or someone will impact your loved one to make a change. I’ve seen it happen in the lives of others.
I hope this helps. I’ve been the worker that parents were angry with but I’ve also rejoiced with clients who had a breakthrough. If you are experiencing a painful time, seek out resources that may get you through it if needed. God bless.
Today I am thankful for making it through another year and looking forward to the surprises God has in store for next year. The kids are grown and we’ve moved to a new state. We have a good church family. The past challenges of life are behind us. Our kids may have their own as they begin their journey of life but with God’s grace, we have survived our own.
I had seven year’s working as a parole/probation agent and loved getting families through challenging times. I loved singing for four years at a mission where I got to support guys in a residential program.
I don’t know what the future holds but am confident that God has had his hand on me all along.
Whatever your challenges in life are, I hope I can offer words of encouragement to those I don’t even know. May we become a community of encouragement. Jesus loves you.
Sincerely, Laura
