Our God is faithful and provides for His people. Over the course of 2017, God has provided for me in great and mighty ways! When the future seemed uncertain, when I was unsure of how it would all come together, I knew God had a plan. I just wanted to take time to reflect and post what He has done for me so far this year.
It all started with the move into my very own house. I have lived in different towns, states, even a different country without my family--but I always had roommates. People were always milling about, sometimes living in the same room if I needed something. We shared food, supplies, rent, and conversation.
Now, here I was, moving into a place of my very own where I was to be solely independent. I had been searching and praying for a house or apartment to move into. My plan was to get a roommate (or two) and split the cost of everything. When my mom told me about a house here in town that might be a good fit for me, I listened closely, skeptical that it could be for me. I called the realtor to get a tour, and upon walking through the house, I immediately knew: this was the place for me! The house is intended for one person or a married couple, not ideal for roommates. The rent is affordable on my own, and I can manage the inexpensive lights and utilities. Was this the house I had pictured? Was this what I had planned for myself? No, no, no! But God is good and provides!
Now I am moved out on my own, dealing with all of these expenses, and my hourly job at the school is about to cease for the summer. I don't have enough money saved to carry me through the three months with no income: I needed a job! I began to search and pray, and I was asking others for resources and prayer. What places are hiring? Where could I work for the summer? Is there someone who would work with me having a full-time job at the school? A friend told me Wal-mart was hiring for positions in the Garden Center. I sent in an online application and got called soon after. The interview was a breeze, and I was offered the job! I was thrilled! God again was providing.
In the midst of moving and getting a new job, I was also looking into going on a mission trip. I had intended on going to Mexico in December, but that didn't work out. I love cross cultural missions, and I feel called to stay involved. I was searching for trips, contacting missionary resources, and nothing was working out! I either just missed deadlines or trips conflicted with my schedule. I finally decided to stop trying to make things work and to trust that God would open up the door if I was supposed to go somewhere. All the while, my friend Caleb had been posting about a trip to Nicaragua. At first I thought, "Oh cool, I'm happy for him! I'll pray for his trip." After some time, he announced he'd be taking a team with him and requested volunteers. One day it clicked, and it occurred to me to ask him for info about the trip. They were just about to purchase plane tickets as a group. This could have been another missed opportunity, BUT I had JUST received my income tax refund. This refund would adequately cover all the expenses for my plane tickets!
On top of that, God provided for the other funds I needed to go. He provided through friends, family, church family, and even unexpected ways, like through a local Christian bookstore. When God calls you to do something, NO obstacles can stand in your way!
As if these situations weren't enough, He continued to provide in other ways.
Providing young adult community when I was feeling alone and disconnected.
Giving me adult fellowship through a Sunday school class when I had been so focused on children's and youth ministry.
Providing transportation when I had gotten into a car accident.
I could list more. These are just some really big moments that really stand out and were momentous. This isn't even going into the day to day ways that God has provided and shown His faithfulness and provision.
God is good. We can trust Him and put our faith in Him, even when circumstances are hard. Even when we don't see how things could work out. Even when things aren't going like we think they should. He is a good, good Father and cares for His children.
