Originally published Sunday, 18 August 2013.
”Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” -Luke 1:45 (NIV)
There are so many things in life that just don't make sense when viewed through our human eyes. Life gets confusing and we don't know what to do. Even when we pray, sometimes it feels like God is keeping pretty quiet which is how it's felt for me lately. I've been praying for direction and all I feel like I hear from God is "keep waiting ... trust that I will keep My promises."
If you've read any of my previous posts, you're probably aware that I went through a broken engagement earlier this year. After being the perpetual single girl for years and longing to be a wife and mommy, I thought I had finally found my prince last year. We got engaged, it fell apart, we broke up and I was devastated. To say the last several months have been hard would be an understatement. I've always thought my life would involve a husband and a family at some point, but honestly I have no clue as to the next step God wants me to take.
At times, the broken engagement has felt like a cruel joke, as if someone placed my dream in front of me only to pull it away and tell me I can’t have it. I know it’s not a cruel joke because my faith has taught me that God has a reason for everything; for every hurt and every tear there is a purpose. God has a plan and He promises me that joy will come after the sadness.
“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy … .“ –Psalm 30:11 (NIV)
Not everyone struggles with singleness and I’ve prayed more times than I can count that God would remove my longing for marriage and children if it’s not His will for me, but the longing remains. So I stand at a crossroads every morning with the reality of where I’m at and the hope of where I want to be not knowing if I’ll ever get there.
Whether or not my longing is met this side of heaven, I know and believe that God is who He says He is.
He promises me He’s working all things out for my good and that His way is better.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” –Romans 8:28 (NIV)
He promises me that whether I’m single or married, He will always take care of me. I should not fear.
“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. … So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” –Matthew 10:29, 31 (NIV)
He promises me that even if no man ever asks for my hand in marriage again, I am beautiful, loved and chosen.
“… as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.” –Isaiah 62:5 (NIV)
He promises me that for every season of tears, there will be a harvest of joy.
“He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy carrying sheaves with him.” –Psalm 126:5 (NIV)
And all those promises? He also promises them to you. His Word is truth---He will not fail.
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