As I ponder over the last couple of years, I can truly say it’s been one of the hardest and yet most rewarding periods of my life. I sincerely believed that I would have back pain the rest of my life and was slated for surgery. Through prayer, essential oils, meditation, and determination God overcame the pain and I avoided surgery.
In 2014, I was “recommended” to resign from our church which ultimately led to us leaving our church family of 12 yrs. There are not words to describe the feelings of betrayal, hurt and disappointment. Not to mention all of the impact in relationships with the students and congregation. I miss all of you and pray for you regularly. One of my all time lows for sure.

And yet through it all God has continued to bless as I seek Him and His plan. We have found a new church which is filled with Godly leadership and grace. It is truly a joy to worship with the family at Grace Evangelical Free Church in Eagle Grove.

In addition, here’s some of the highlights of blessings (There are many more)

– Over 2 weeks of vacation right after resigning

– Serving at Casa Angelina in Guatemala with great friends

– Preaching Family Camp weekend at Pine Lake Camps

– Preaching Challenge Camp at Mink Lake for Pine Lake Camps

– Preaching 12 weeks for Grace Baptist Church

– Meeting and spending time with so many new family members in the body of Christ.

– Our business has grown to where I don’t have to have another job at all.

– I’m now completely free to preach and serve however God wants me to

– My faith has grown all the more as the trials unfolded

– I spent countless days out of state/country with my beautiful bride.

– I spend many days with my kids not missing them growing up

– Shared our family’s story at RealFest to promote adoption

– After feeling unappreciated, God has completely overcome those feelings with appreciation from  His body everywhere I’ve served

– God’s word has pierced the deepest parts of me this year

– preached to hundreds of people all over the world

– discovered my purpose

– started writing a book

– I have seen God’s faithfulness in a whole new and more complete way.

I’m left with the truth that no weapon formed against me will prosper. God will prevail and my life will be used to glorify Him forever in all circumstances!

Reflection

In what ways has God used your trials to glorify Him and bless you?

How might He be doing that with the trials you are currently facing. 

Take time to praise Him for all of the trials you have faced and are facing.  For He is faithful through all of them!

Prayer

Gracious God, You are faithful!  You have seen us through the darkest and brightest of times.  You continue to work all things for our good.  Thank you for demonstrating Your deep faithfulness to us.  Grow out faith as we walk in the valleys of life.  Teach us to draw near to You and praise You in the storm by the power of Jesus’ name, Amen!