READ: Jeremiah 29:11-13
Becoming a stay-at-home mom for about two years seems to be the longest and most difficult stage I have gone through. Don’t get me wrong. Being a full-time mom is a wonderful 24/7 job. What made me struggle was the absence of my husband (who worked abroad during those years) and my “leave of absence” from work or ministry.
I am not a plain housewife material, but I survived doing household chores by myself (except for marketing and cooking which were my eldest sister’s work duty). My life was still convenient with an automatic washing machine and an electric sterilizer. No amount of technology, however, could ease the depression that was slowly creeping in. How I missed those times when my family was complete and we were active in mission work.
We went out of YWAM (Youth With A Mission), hoping to embrace a new role as a sender or financial supporter to missionary friends. But I guess no transition stage is easy. And here is where people either move forward or retreat.
Whatever happened to God-given gifts and dreams?
I moved back by starting a habit of recalling the place and season where I was most dynamic and effective. If only I could relive those moments. . . . If only . . . but all I could do was go back to the past until a still small voice put me off. It gently whispered, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” In the spur of the moment, the all-too-familiar Jeremiah 29:11 resonated a special promise.
The well-known verse has brought a new revelation that enabled me to stop a counter-productive habit. It spoke to my heart and lifted up my downcast spirit.
Disappointed with your present situation? You need not be tempted to dwell in the past. . . . God knows what He’s doing. He has greater plans for you and me.
“I will bless you with a future filled with hope—a future of success, not of suffering. You will turn back to me and ask for help and I will answer your prayers.” –Jeremiah 29:11-12 (CEV)
As long as you’re in the will of God, that’s the best and safest place to be. =)
Amen! Thanks for dropping by.
It’s good to be back to this blog. It’s good to hear that you found comfort and rest in the LORD.