My God is a God of restoration.
I have heard that statement before. But not until these past 12 months did I completely understand it. But wow – my God is a God of restoration.
We are now moved in to our dream home. And starting the process of replacing our belongings. It’s been a long year waiting for this time. But as usual, I’m so glad God had me wait. He taught me more than I could ever imagine this year.
Grateful for the loss. Grateful for the blessing. No more words for now.
Hello readers,
This is a long post so please stick with me. I’ve been kinda quiet these last 2 months. There are several reasons for that. But I’m not going to go into that now. What I would like to do is let you know that I am going to be completely quiet for the next 40 days starting March 5th. From March 5th to Easter I will be observing Lent. I’m giving up social media. That means no blogging, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, etc.
Since the fire, I have been learning a lot from my Savior. Basically my life has been picked apart. God has been cleansing me through and through. Over the last month I have been reading a book by Beth Moore called Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds. I’ve found a few of them to be weighing me down. Observing Lent will allow me to fully focus on God and to finish out this round of cleansing. I’m sure you’ve heard the statement – “you have to hit rock bottom to fully change.” Well, that’s what I feel like. It seems that God has taken my life turned it upside down and is shaking all the lies and darkness out. He’s truly taking me through a refining process to bring me closer to Him. As hard as it has been, I am grateful.
In Matthew 14:22-33, the account of Jesus walking on water is told. Peter had the courage to get out of the boat and walk towards Jesus when he was invited. But once he took his eyes off Jesus and looked around at the storm, he began to sink. Jesus did save him but then asked him- why did you doubt? In my situation, this opportunity of Lent is allowing me to keep my eyes on Jesus and not be distracted by the storm around me.
Thanks for listening! See you after Easter!
We are so incredible grateful for all the support we have received during our difficult season. We have put together a newsletter with updates as to what has been happening since the fire. As well as a video to thank everyone.
Click here to view the Walkup Newsletter
And here is the video we created –
We really do appreciate everything. Not a day goes by that we don’t remember to thank God for all we have.
31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:31-32
19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
“How are you?” This is the question I get most. And of course because our friends/family want to know how we are doing. I can answer that question today on December 3, 2013. And what I will say is It is well with my soul. I am doing well.
I’m walking through the process of grieving. However in the midst of the grieving, I’m finding joy in the little things. I’m thankful it’s Christmas because this took the pressure off me for decorating downstairs. I just flooded everything with Christmas decor. And it’s very warm now!
But, how am doing has a lot to do with the friends and family that surround me…
I have amazing friends. Friends that will search your Twitter and Facebook feed for pictures, print them, and then make personalized ornaments. Friends that will spend the last almost 2 months working to restore some non-replaceable items that were salvageable. Friends that still check in and see what we need. Friends that simply drop off needed items on our doorstep like kid’s medicine. Friends that think about us while hanging up their sentimental ornaments and then take the time to pray for us.
And then there’s family. They have been incredible as well. Family that searches all over eBay for a kit to make a homemade stocking that was lost. Family that helps us out by spending the day with their grandchildren. Family that prays, understands, and just loves us through this season.
For the last couple of weeks – everyday uncovers something else we lost. I am taking the time to grieve that item and find some way to replace it. Some things can’t be replaced. And that is ok. The memory can never be lost. So I thank God and try to move on.
God is so good. He is my true comforter. He is how I am walking through this.
Yesterday I read this in a new devotional I started and it really encourages me. I pray it encourages you as well:
“The great objective of this life is character, for it is the only thing we can carry with us into eternity. And gaining as much of the highest character possible is the purpose of our trials.” Austin Phelps
Just to sum things up. As I said before – I am well because it is well with my soul. Below are the lyrics of that song. I’m so grateful for a Savior who cares for lil’ ole me!
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
It is well with my soul,it is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
let this blest assurance control,
that Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
and hath shed his own blood for my soul.
It is well with my soul,it is well, it is well with my soul.
Confessions of a Mom 