Reminder

My last post serves as a reminder to me because whenever I hear "can't," I automatically start going into stress mode. It's mentioned in the bible many, many times that we shouldn't worry because God will take care of us. Jesus rebuked Martha for worrying about getting everything done rather than focusing on quality time with Him.

"Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you..."

Anxiety is a very familiar feeling, and one frequent visitor that needs to be barred from my heart. I continue to build my knowledge of scripture to fight against it, and will continue to post reminders to myself. The Word of God really is sharper than a two-edged sword and is the best weapon against temptation.

So with that, I'll call it quits for today and go enjoy a night out with a dear friend.

Can't, Never Could

I have been told I can't my entire life.

"You can't make something of yourself out of what you come from."

"You can't know how to have fun if you have your head stuck in a book all the time."

"You can't make it on your own because you don't have any idea about streetsmarts and you've been too sheltered for too long."

"You can't get financial aid that will not only cover your tuition, but also your college and living expenses."

"You can't work and keep your grades up in college, especially as a full-time student."

"You can't be a professional without make-up and the latest clothing style, losing weight, and doing something different with your hair."

"You can't be in graduate school and work full-time..."

"...and you most definitely can't have TWO jobs!"

"You can't get enough clinical hours to graduate unless you start back early and carry through the week of graduation."

There are so many more "cants," but these are the first ones that come to mind. Why do people always want to tell me I can't? I have proved them wrong every single time. I wonder if it is their way of setting the bar high, giving me an expectation to meet and the motivation to make it happen.

I was thinking about this today as I drove home from my clinical practicum site. You know, honestly, they are right. I can't. I never could. But God can and He has always been able. I have never succeeded in proving a "cant" wrong on my own, but only by His grace, mercy, and faithfulness.

I stand here rather excited, to think that God has used all these cants-turned-coulds in my life to show His might and power and love in such a real way.

I can when I'm on His side. He strengthens His own!

Three years ago this week...

...my dreams were crushed. My hopes were stamped out. I was at the darkest place in my life I have ever been.

I was lost, broken, nearly destroyed.

Three years ago this past week, my then-husband walked out the door of our home and never came back.

Oh, to think where God has brought me since that time! I am far from where I need to be, but thankfully I am on the right road--looking toward the mark, running the race set before me with a purpose. God turned to good what was meant for evil. And oh what good He has been!

You are never more aware of the Father's voice than when you most desparately wish to hear it, when you are alone and trembling in the mess of life, and, desiring a way out, cry to the only One who can relieve you of your burden.

And guess what? He's there. His arms are outstretched and waiting. No matter what you've done, no matter what mess you've created out of your life...He's there and He wants to fix it. He wants to turn your life into one that glorifies Him.

I let Him transform me. I let Him work in me a new creature.

And it has been a decision I will never regret.

Thank you, Jesus!