It’s amazing what can happen in a week! I never grow tired of seeing God be faithful to rescue and save. It’s who He is and what He does. Last week I shared how we were faced with a trial that brought us to our knees. We did not try to solve the problem on our own, we turned to our God and asked for His help. He showed up. He gave us strength where we were weak. He went before us to soften hearts to hear. He gave courage to speak truth in love. Hearts were moved. The darkness that could have destroyed was moved out, and His light was ushered in. God WINS! We WIN! This is the redemption story of all of our lives. Do you know Him?

Today is May 19, 2016. Fifteen years ago our oldest daughter was born at 7:56p weighing in at 6 lbs 11 ounces and was 19.5 inches long. She had all of her fingers and toes. She was perfect. She is a beautiful picture of God’s redeeming grace…beauty from ashes. When we learned we were expecting Catherine we were overjoyed and full of fear at the same time. We did not want to have to go through another loss. I remember opening my bible and finding words that would continue to guide me throughout the next nine months:

“Do NOT be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition,with THANKSGIVING, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

These words did not stop guiding me after nine months…they continue to guide me today. This 15 year old girl that I petitioned for before Him is now getting behind the wheel of a car with a learner’s license. Seat belt on…check! That same JOY and FEAR is here just like it was when she was in my womb. I return to the place that brought me peace. His word is a lamp unto my feet. It tells me NOT to worry. It tells me to take everything to Him in prayer with THANKSGIVING!  Oh how I am thankful for all that He has given me. And this amazing and strange peace washes over me. I trust God’s plans for our Catherine. She belongs to Him. She has accepted Christ as her Savior. He lives inside of her beautiful heart, and He helps to guide her steps. He will not fail her. He has plans to prosper her, give her hope and a future and this future is for certain. There really is nothing to fear.  I am learning to embrace each moment as the gift that it truly is, and I am grateful.

Have you experienced His faithfulness? Have you been able to turn to him with your worries and ask for His help? If you haven’t, I hope these stories will inspire you to try. Try turning to Him? Give Him your heart. Invite Him in, to take up residence, and bring His light and peace not only into your life but into all of those in your life that you touch. It will be the best decision you will ever make. You will have a future that is ETERNAL…with no more tears…with lots of REJOICING! I can’t wait to meet all of you there. What a celebration it will be. Keep on keeping the FAITH brothers and sisters. We will reap a harvest if we do not give up. He is working for the good of those who love HIM.  Keep fighting the good fight. Armor on! #gloryup #truth

HAPPY 15TH BIRTHDAY
CATHERINE ELIZABETH COE

YOU ARE TREASURED AND ADORED! XOXO