Loss and Gain

For being 25, I feel like I have faced A LOT of loss in my life.... Whether it be the loss of friends, relationships with family members, love and crushes, my mother, and most recently my father. Although my father isn't really gone gone, being so far away in Alabama is a Pretty big loss. I have had him my entire life, even if it was just a short drive away. And now it's just not that simple. Why God?

Sometimes I find myself questioning God as to why things happen, or more specifically, why things are happening to me. As I I'm the only person who has ever been through that situation. How self-centered am I, right? It always winds up coming to the surface that I am not the only one who is going through a tough time.... These times of realization lead my thoughts back to people like Ruth and Job. Ruth lost her husband, but instead of running and panicking like a chicken with her head cut off- marrying to help ensure prosperity for herself she remains true to Naomi and stays by her side... Job- he lost absolutely EVERYTHING! His family, his wealth, his means of living, and even his health- yet he still did not give in. Were either of those people perfect? Abdutely not. But they were devoted and persevered. I think- look at what they struggled through- and they made it through. They were blessed. And God never left them nor neglected them... Why do I ever think God would do that to me?

Yes I have faced loss- who hasn't to some degree? But God has always provided... And I have gained so much through His provision.

Most recently I have realized that God has provided me with such a blessing in the form of friendship and an amazing support system. God has used people in my life- both new and old- to speak words or affirmation and encouragement to me when I have need them most. I have friends that at the moment of a text are willing to pray for me in times of need and struggle. I have friends who are the most fun to be around and bring such joy and laughter into my life. I have a wonder group of friends that I get to meet with and grow together in Christ that have helped me more than they could ever know. I have several  coworkers who build me up when it seems like I have failed or those odds are against me. I have people and mentors in who encourage me as I seek out and follow the call Christ has place on my life. I have groups of people who have stepped up to be the extra family I grew up without and who have help to shape me into who I am today. I have a family spread out over distances that love me and care for me even though we are separated and don't see each other or talk often enough. I have kids and teenagers who look up to me for guidance-encouragement- and more that show me I can make a difference. And I have a God who loves me inspite of myself an my failures. I have a God who mercilously and graciously forgives me when I so often fall short of His glory. And I have a God who declares I'm His masterpiece and He has my life planned out for me according to His will for my good and benefit.

Yes I have lost a lot, and at times it's easier to remember what is lost. But what I have gained is so much more meaningful and precious than words can describe. I'm truely blessed! 💗

"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." Romans 8:28