Community

My bloggy friends,

Yesterday, I shared a part of our journey with our daughter. It was one of those dark seasons, heavy, over-whelming at times... but God saw us through. Your comments and emails about the post surprised me. I didn't expect anyone to find so much encouragement there.

Yet, it's precisely the reason I write. I truly believe that God brings us through tough times so that we can support others. The trials we endure and overcome provide us with special insight. Being able to encourage another person, sincerely, is such a gift.

• "I KNOW it's hard -- but there is hope." 
• "There is a light at the end of your dark tunnel." 
• "Hang in there. Really, it gets better."

God's word is filled with the same encouragement. Reading how David overcame his struggles, or how Jonah overcame his stubborn self-will, or how Nehemiah persevered as enemies taunted and attacked, all bring me encouragement when I struggle. 

Sometimes I forget though. In those times, I am thankful for the friends who remind me that my troubles will not last. I am thankful for friends who encourage me to count the victories, not just the stumbling. I am thankful for friends who remind me that God is faithful -- often pointing to my own life to remind me!

We are a community, my bloggy friends. Thank you for letting me know I've encouraged you. In that, you encourage me - to remain honest, to live transparently, and to look always to my eternal Father. His hope shines in these stories of mine. I'd be lost without Him!

If you face challenges today you find hard to overcome, please let me know. I will pray in agreement with you that God will lead you out of the darkness. He's always answered that prayer... and He always will!

Much love,

Karen