God's Mercy

“When we are certain of the way God is going to work, He will never work in that way anymore.”-Oswald Chambers

I have been reminded of this concept several times in the last few months. In many ways it intrigues me while at the same time can be frustrating. Trying to understand God’s plan for my life has definitely been a journey with great ups and downs. But, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve had some really big, good, awesome things happen to me in the last few months. I am so grateful to be experiencing real joy. I never ever thought I would feel such happiness again.

As I sat in church this past Sunday, I began to weep. One of the questions that our pastor asked of our congregation was, “Do you rejoice in God’s mercy or do you just expect it?” I began to ponder this and it hit me just how merciful God has been to me over the years, especially the last three. I closed my eyes and let God’s goodness sink in. I immediately thought of Joel 2:25-26,

“And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten…And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you…”

God certainly didn’t give me the kind of restoration I had envisioned or hoped for. I really wanted Him to restore my daughter and give her back to me on this earth. What I have realized is that God did give Meredith back to me-- through my book. The responses I have received from the people who have read it has been astounding. It has touched many lives and hopefully challenged my readers to trust and love God more even through the most difficult circumstances. Even though the pain of losing my daughter is still consuming at times, I know that her life will continue to make a difference in this world. It is satisfying and causes me to praise God’s name with a grateful heart.