Unanswered Prayer

I had a pretty intense prayer session with God recently. I was quite hopeful, even almost certain, that God would answer in a positive way. But as of right now, the answer hasn’t been what I had anticipated.

It’s really difficult when this happens. It sometimes makes you (or at least me) doubt God, wonder if you prayed the right way, and maybe even get a bit angry. The truth is, I don’t know why God didn’t answer my prayers the way I was hoping. But I DO know that He is in control, that He knows what’s best, and that He is working things out for my good as I love and trust Him.

God sees the big picture, and I don’t. I really just need to trust Him right now.

Is there something that you’ve been praying for, hoping for with all of your heart, that hasn’t been answered the way that you’d like? Don’t give up. Keep asking. Keep seeking. Keep knocking. And keep surrendering to His will. He won’t give His children a stone when we ask for bread (Luke 11:1-13 NKJV).

Photo Credit: Joshua Earle

Forward Progress

It’s been a while since I’ve really shared about the specific circumstances going on in my life. Thankfully, right now, there seems to be forward progress.

First of all, things have moved ahead in my attempt to get help from the DVRS. They are going to fund my going back to school! I will be attending an Institute where I will study Microsoft Office applications along with Quickbooks software. My goal is to get a job working at a small store (preferably an art store), assisting them with their financial records. My first day of class is actually this upcoming Monday! I am nervous and excited at the same time. I’m hoping that I will be able to keep up with the pace of learning and to comprehend the material. Prayers are much appreciated! 🙂

Secondly, I’ve started a little side business with Steeped Tea, a company that originated in Canada and has now moved to the US as well. Steeped Tea sells delicious loose leaf teas along with adorable tea accessories – and I have the opportunity to share these products with my friends and family. I have to say, it’s been a challenge with my social anxiety, but I am taking it day by day. I’m hosting an “Online Party” right now, and hope to hold an in-home party sometime soon, so that people are able to taste the teas and learn more about their health benefits. If you enjoy tea and would like to learn more, I would LOVE for you to visit my personal Steeped Tea website, A Heart for Tea. Here you will be able to view an online catalog, get to know more about this wonderful company, and make a purchase if you see something that you like!

A third area in which I have made positive strides is my involvement in the Handbell Choir at my church. At first I was SO anxious and perfectionistic, making it quite difficult to enjoy the actual art of making music. But God has been teaching me to let go of the desire to not make any mistakes, and to try to focus on having fun. It is not easy, and I do not always succeed – but I am doing better, and for that I am thankful.

The point of this post is to share my gratefulness to God for answering my prayers and for giving me some forward direction. It’s been a long struggle, but my Lord is faithful – and He is unfolding His plan for me little by little.

Be encouraged! Even if you feel “stuck” where you are right now, change could be right around the corner. ❤

Photo Credit: Amanda Sandlin

St. Patty’s Day Stroll

It’s such a beautiful day! The pets loved it, too. 🙂 Daisy and I took two long strolls around the neighborhood. We enjoyed the sun, the fresh air, and the signs of Spring. The featured picture is one that I took around the corner from our house. It was just so invigorating to be outside! I’m grateful for a day to recharge, but also to get some things done that I needed to. Praise Jesus! ❤

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