Leap of Faith

In my last post I wrote about how Todd’s job has made life a “bit” stressful. I need to update that statement. Todd’s job has caused life to be “very” stressful. But we won’t be shaken. In fact, our faith has surprised even me, someone extremely quick to worry.

I just recently finished reading an advanced copy of Bittersweet by Shauna Niequist. In the book, Shauna offers a small piece of advice that is changing the way I look at my life. She says, “When life is sweet, say thank you and celebrate. When life is bitter, say thank you and grow.”

For the last few months I have been telling Todd that I felt closer to God than I had in a long time. Little did I know that He was drawing me closer to Him in preparation for a tough season, but I’m so glad He did. Todd and I have felt such a peace and assurance that God will indeed provide for all of our needs. I don’t have a doubt in my mind that He will. We’ve just begun the journey of job hunting, cutting back our spending, etc. but I have felt God’s presence each day in a big way. I haven’t felt led to pray for a “big break.” Instead, I believe God wants to reveal His goodness each day. So every morning I wake up and pray, “Father – give us a small victory today and we will know You are here.” And I can say with confidence that He has given us victories each day. Whether it has been networking opportunities, financial blessing, or just something to keep our mind off our situation and make us smile, He hasn’t failed to meet us where we are. I can also say with confidence that I am truly thankful for this season and excited to see who we will be on the other side.

When Todd and I first moved to Nashville, we were working lousy jobs and struggling to stay on top of our bills. We were approaching our first anniversary and wanted to celebrate in a big way. We were watching TV in our one-bedroom apartment when a Southwest Airlines commercial came on announcing their $49 one-way specials. Todd and I looked at each other and both said, “Let’s do it! Let’s go somewhere fun.” On a whim we chose Clearwater Beach, Florida and scraped up enough money for flights, hotels and a cheap car rental (a little Kia that we both loved driving). We had a blast and we weren’t going to let our current situation keep us from celebrating our marriage.

Clearwater Beach, Florida; May 2006

It’s so fun to look back now. We’ll often bring up our trip to Clearwater and say, "Can you believe we did that?" Our finances may have been tight, but we will never forget that trip.

Our situation feels somewhat similar today. Things may change and we may walk through a tough season, but we won’t stop living. God will provide. He promises that He will and we are firmly believing those promises.

Psalm 20: 4-5

May He grant your heart’s desires and make all your plans succeed. May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory and raise a victory banner in the name of our God. May the Lord answer all your prayers.

For the record, Todd still has a job – but things have changed and we’re doing our best to prepare for the worst. Who knows, things could completely turn around or maybe a new opportunity is just around the corner.

Either way, we know God holds our lives in the palm of His hand.

So for now, we will trust and say thank you.