Supin

Something that’s been a thread through my life has been learning about God’s goodness and love through trying times.

When I was 19, I became depressed and was terribly afraid of life. I felt hopeless, wanted to quit university, and was even afraid to leave my dorm room. But during that time, I discovered God’s sweet comfort and strength. The book of Psalms was my lifeline. After a few months, the depression disappeared as suddenly as it came, but for me it was the beginning of a deeper relationship with God. Studying God’s word became like eating to me. My life would not be truly fulfilling without his promises and guidance. Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Another difficult time in my life was when my husband was laid off for about a year. Things seemed hopeless: he had submitted numerous job applications, finances were draining, and his physical health at the time prevented him from getting even a casual labour job. As stressful and discouraging as it was, I learned that God is gracious and faithful. We received unexpected and generous gifts of food and money. We even got specific items we prayed for, like shoes for Keener and comforters for our toddlers. In addition, neither our vehicle nor house needed any major repairs during that time. I look back in gratitude for this experience because it showed me that the maker of the universe is trustworthy and cares about every one of my needs. Philippians 4:19 "My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

A third life event that had a major impact on me was the car accident I was involved in a few years ago. Since then, I experience pain on a daily basis. Though some days are very challenging, I thank God because the pain reminds me to be humble and seek God’s wisdom and power instead of relying on my own limited knowledge and strength. I have learned that putting God’s will ahead of mine is much more satisfying. Ephesians 3:20 "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us."

Another trying time in my life was when my youngest daughter was overcome with severe abdominal pain for several months. She would wake up nearly every night crying in pain. We went through numerous tests and doctors to find the cause of her ailment. It was heart-breaking to see her suffering. But during this time, I learned that God works every detail in the lives of Christians into something good. Many blessings came out of this situation, one of which was learning how to eat healthily. Psalm 34:8 "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him."

My relationship with God is everything to me. It gives me real life. I can’t imagine life without the giver of life. Although life is tough at times and I don’t understand why things happen the way they do, I know I have a heavenly father who is in control of everything. Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

I’m really excited about the adventure our family is a part of right now. We just started hosting a Connections house church in our home. We hope we will have the opportunity to share the great news of God’s love and salvation to our community.