Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

While I was growing up, I had formed in my head what my life was going to look like.  I had everything planned out to create the ultimate picture.

I would graduate from college and get married.  We would enjoy our time as newlyweds before having two children.  The four of us would live in a quaint house with the white picket fence.  Ah, I could sit back and just enjoy my family.  It was picture perfect.

However, in my picture, I did not account for reality.  In my life this included: divorce, a miscarriage and cancer.  That is only one side of the coin.  On the other, I was also blessed with an amazing husband who loves the Lord, five incredible children and a writing career.

A certainty of life is that no one can plan out or predict how it will play out.  There will be twists and turns as well as peaks and valleys.  The only way to successfully navigate through life is by allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you every step of the way.  It may mean going through some struggles, but God knows what is best. He is the only one who sees the big picture. 

The experiences you go through cannot only strengthen you, but also enable you to reach out to others.  God will not waste one thing.  He uses everything ultimately for good.  We simply need to surrender to His leading.  Don’t let your plans hold you back from God’s best for you.

I encourage you to spend some time with God this week and realize all the struggles God has brought you through.  It may not be what you had planned, but know that God has your best in mind.

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for the truth found in Your Word. May I allow You to guide me down the correct path. Help me to cling to You even when the struggles in life come. I know that You have a perfect plan for me. May I completely surrender to You. In Your Precious Name, Amen.