This update has been long overdue, so it's time to fill you in on what's going on in our world. When I last left you, we were flying out for an interview, where we interviewed with a wonderful church in Oklahoma. The interview process here was for a music ministry position. Through the weekend, we really felt like God kept confirming over and over to us that He wanted us to wait and to continue seeking a pastor position. It was very difficult to come home with this realization, as we had pretty much all but packed up the truck to move. Before going, we really felt like this was where God was leading us, and we were both surprised that it was not where He was leading.
When we got home, we were contacted by a church in Oregon. We went down there this past weekend, and met some more very lovely people, but we both knew very quickly on that this was not the place for our family. The church is 99% senior adult, with no other children/youth at all, and we knew that this was not going to be a fit for our kids, or for us. It's hard to understand this process, but we both feel that if God has definitely not made it clear to us that He wants us there, then we need to continue to wait upon Him. This might not make much sense, but we know without a doubt that this is what we need to do. We both came home feeling very overwhelmed and sad..... we know that He has a place for us, somewhere.
We are officially down to no income coming in, but over the months God has blessed us through our adoption tax credit refund, a huge, generous gift from our church in town, and several others who have given to our family. Each gift has been deposited into our savings, in anticipation of this day coming, and now it is here. The Lord has continued to supply all that we NEED, and we are trying to be wise with what we have and how we use it. I can't begin to tell you what an amazing God we serve, and how He constantly reminds us that He loves us and will never leave us or forsake us.
Thank you for praying for our family, for asking us how we are doing and for loving us through this time. We are so blessed to have so many who care for us and love us, and we are so thankful.
We called our rental company, and our house had not yet been rented, so we are able to stay in our house, boxes and all! We officially got Allyson registered for school today, since school starts next week and she's going to be a big ol' kindergartener. My dear, sweet husband is applying for everything imaginable, and we know that God will open the door He wants for us to go through....
AND, my sweet son just brought me the last chocolate chip cookie with a glass of milk, just because he loves me, so I know we are going to be OKAY!!!!
You know we are praying, Pastor Brad and Shelley...it's hard not knowing but we know that He knows our paths. Praying for peace for you guys as well as His provision and direction. Love you all.....
ReplyDeleteIt's exciting to see your family living out their faith. That's why I know you don't need to be reminded that:
ReplyDelete...we are refined by fire
...in our weakness, He is made strong
...He has a plan for us
And so on and so forth. I'm always in awe of how frequently The Word encourages us to wait on the Lord, and to trust in Him.
Prayer and blessings as you are obediently letting God direct you in all of this. You are an inspiration to us all!
We'll definitely be praying for you, Shelly & Pastor Brad. I echo what Rachel above said. You don't see Christ followers doing this everyday. You both are blessings from God!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like such an echo of what we are going through also. Its tough and through afflictions we grow. I know with faith all things are possible. I love your updates and how sweet of your son to bring you the last chocolate chip cookie. So sweet!
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(sorry I keep having problems and it won't let me post except under anonymous)
Oh my goodness, what a rollercoaster. So glad that God has been preparing your hearts (and savings accounts) for this time and has given you impossible faith that you are still in his hands and that he has purpose and plan for your family! Praying for you guys!
ReplyDeleteKeeping you all in our prayers up here. Let us know if there is anything we can help out with...we're always up for a southern road trip! :)I know that God has the right place and plan for you all...and am blessed to get to see Him working in your lives. Thank you for sharing with us!
ReplyDeletePraying for your situation and at the same time impressed by your walk by faith ability. He will provide. He will be with you the entire journey. Can't wait to see where He takes you!!!
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