With Every Season of Trial, Comes a Season of Joy

I truly believe that statement to be truth. I've seen it in the lives of those around me, and I most recently have seen it in my own life. If you've been following my blog over the last 5+ months, you would know that I experienced a season of trial, darkness and pain. I knew it was a season I needed to face, and that I needed to not run from. All my life, I have embraced running away rather than facing things head on. But, I am so grateful that I was surrounded by great support who encouraged me to stay put, and wait on God. I was able to survive that time because I knew God would soon bring me out of it, and give me joy. That is the beauty of His promises.

"a time to weep, and a time to laugh;

a time to mourn, and a time to dance."

Ecclesiastes 3:4

I experienced healing, and with that healing came freedom, and with that freedom came joy. I've mentioned this joy a few times on my blog, so now I feel it would be appropriate to explain what this season of joy looks like for me. If you're interested, keep reading...

Joy comes in all forms, and I believe my joy ultimately comes from the Lord. In this season specifically, my joy has a name, and his name is James Michael. 

We have an interesting story, Jamey & I. From what started three years ago, and was more recently revisited, we've had quite the journey. We are the epitome of a miracle, and a relationship that has God's fingerprints completely all over it. From our start, the odds have been against us, and that in essence, was the reason we never could fully take off. He has always remained someone I admired and found comfort in. He has the heart of a servant, and the ability to love in spite of my crazy. (& believe me, I've had my share of crazy over the years). He has been the most patient and faithful person I've ever met. Because of all of this, we've revisited one another many times over the last few years. It never made sense to either of us, and it was more often than not, filled with pain and heartache. But now, we are able to look back and see what God was up to. We can see purpose in all of those rough seasons, because it was what led us to this season, our season of joy.

Our story doesn't make sense to most people, and it honestly doesn't make complete sense to either of us, but it's us. We realize that our story is in actuality God's story, and we have been given the privilege to be characters within it. 

Such little babies!
[3 years ago]

                                                            

I've never been happier, and I am so excited to see where God takes us. We are stronger than ever before, because of all the trials we faced both together, and individually. Everyday is still surreal, I can't help but to thank God for this blessing and this season of joy.

J a m e y , 

You are so dear to me. Thank you for being so patient with me over the years. And above everything else, thank you for listening to God throughout these years, even when it didn't make sense and when the world told you not to. I am confident it is because of your obedience that you and I are here, together. You're my favorite, darlin'.

XO

Brenda