Jennifer Hallmark is a writer, artist and ministry leader who works with women’s ministry groups. Her love of writing is evident in over 120 articles she has written on several different article websites. She has finished her first in a series of novels, Journey of Grace: A New Beginning.Check out her websites at www.jenniferhallmark.com and www.aclarioncall.com .
So many decisions in my life...it is difficult being in this new phase of children moving out, a new grandchild, and a new career. At times, I am excited and on fire about the changes and other times I feel depressed and moody. Did I mention I am also at that age of other changes? Ladies will know what I mean…
Changes of this magnitude make life challenging, especially when they are coming all at once. Being in this "empty nest" stage is harder than I could have imagined in some ways but also enjoyable. My husband and I have more time together and I have time to give to my writing. Lessons will be learned if I am teachable and open to all the new experiences. God always wants to see us grow and this is definitely a stretching time for me.
The coming weeks are going to bring some more decisions, specific ones that I need direction for from the Lord like at no other time. I am clinging to the verses in Proverbs 3:5-6:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” NKJV
Trusting in the Lord during times of disappointment is hard but I have to ask myself, “Do I truly believe that God is for me and He wants to fulfill the desires He has put in my heart?” God is big enough to do all that He has purposed to do and if it does not happen like I think it should, then so be it. His plan is more than I can see and know:
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord…” Isaiah 55:8 NKJV
So I stop and admit to God that I am disappointed and cannot see as He does. I ask Him to open my eyes to His ways and to help my unbelief and lack of trust in Him. When I ask in faith, according to His will, I will receive. I expect to receive during this time of decisions and am determined to trust Him no matter what I think or feel. His Word is true and I stand on His Word...
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