For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11
“There’s a light at the end of the tunnel.” “Every dark
cloud has a silver lining.” “This too shall pass.” There are lots of ways to
express the hope that our current trials will eventually come to an end. When
we’re going through dark times, it’s human nature to hold out hope for a
brighter future.
Last fall, my sister’s husband was diagnosed with lung and bone cancer. Less than four months later, he passed away, and after 25 wonderful years of marriage, my 52-year-old sister found herself in the position of being widowed.
Through it all, Kim had complete confidence that not only
would God take care of her, but that He had something wonderful in store for
her. I admired her faith and the positive outlook she displayed through the
grief.
A couple of months ago, she decided to check out
Christian Mingle to see what singles there might be in the area and possibly
find what they refer to as an “activities partner.” She put up a minimal
profile, and since she lives in a small mountain town, with the nearest big
city two hours away, she was surprised to have a response the following day from
someone in the next town. He wanted to know what church she attended, and after
praying about it a couple of days, she sent a reply. As it turned out, this guy
Randall works with one of Kim’s friends at church, who has nothing but good to
say about him.
After texting back and forth for some time, they finally
decided to meet in the park downtown and go to lunch. Kim wanted to go Dutch
and each pay for their own meals. Randall’s response was, “Sorry, I’m
old-fashioned…and I don’t speak Dutch!”
Since that first meeting, they’ve seen each other almost
every day. If Kim made a list of everything she would want in a man, Randall
would fit the bill. He’s gentle, caring, romantic, and strong spiritually—a man
who prays for her and with her and isn’t afraid to talk about his faith. And
he’s crazy about her. They’re taking it slow, letting God lead. But I have no
doubt where all this is going. Somewhere down the road, I’ll be getting a new
brother-in-law.
During those darkest hours, Kim knew God had something
good for her. She just never expected that blessing to be in the form of
Randall!
What blessings have you received, unexpected or
otherwise? What are you thankful for? Share your thoughts, and I’ll put your
name in the hat to win an autographed copy of Bodyguard for Christmas. (U.S. residents only. If you live outside
the U.S., I’ll send an ebook.)
Someone’s after his little boy.
She has one chance to save them both.
When his young son is nearly kidnapped, assistant district attorney Colton Gale needs a Christmas refuge—and a live-in bodyguard. Though former military police officer Jasmine McNeal fights to shield them 24/7, she refuses to get attached. But growing close to the little boy and his father might be her only shot at keeping them alive—and becoming a family beyond the holidays.
She has one chance to save them both.
When his young son is nearly kidnapped, assistant district attorney Colton Gale needs a Christmas refuge—and a live-in bodyguard. Though former military police officer Jasmine McNeal fights to shield them 24/7, she refuses to get attached. But growing close to the little boy and his father might be her only shot at keeping them alive—and becoming a family beyond the holidays.
Posts
What a Blessing and Wonderful statement of God's plans for our lives.
ReplyDeleteAmen! Good is good!
DeleteGod is good! I had the unexpected blessing of breaking my wrist in 2017. I know doesn't sound like a blessing but it made me slow down and evaluate my priorities and my writing process. It also was a humbling time of having to allow others to take care of me when I'm usually the one taking care of everyone else. Love the cover of you book.
ReplyDeleteI remember that, Terri - you signing books with your arm in a cast! Sometimes we need those times when we're forced to slow down.
DeleteThe last couple of years have been challenging and at times, overwhelming. Through the random and unexpected kindness of others, God has reminded me He has not forgotten me. It's the little things that mean so much.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it cool how God does that, sends encouragement when we need it most. He is so good!
DeleteSuzan B, you are the winner of an autographed copy of Bodyguard for Christmas. If you already have that one, you can choose another book. You can email me at caroljpost@gmail.com.
DeleteWow, Carol. I remember when your sister lost her husband, because I had just gone through something very similar. My husband passed away a year ago yesterday after only 3 months of illness - very similar but his was kidney cancer that had spread to the bones. No Randalls here, although my husband apparently had a discussion with my daughters trying to get them to make me "get back out there." I can't even imagine, but I wish blessings heaped upon your sister and Randall.
ReplyDeleteCate, I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope it's starting to get a little easier. Yes, his situation was very similar to Jerry's. He had expressed the same sentiment to Kim, wanting her to have a second chance at a happy relationship. She was sure no one could follow in his footsteps, but Randall is doing a pretty good job!
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