I hope you have found encouragement from this series which highlighted the blessings that my family experienced in an unexpected season.

In this conclusion, I wanted to share that for me, fear attempted to settle in when faced with the reality that we had lost the only income to support our family of five. Shame and guilt also tried to move into my mind. What would we tell others? Had the time come for me to return to the workforce? I had been familiar with the weight of carrying such negative thoughts in the past and doing so in isolation. Unfortunately, that had not turned out well for me … at all.

So before any of those feelings could take residence, the decision was made that there was no vacancy for them. We made that official by reaching out to our circle of family, friends, and leaders. We shared with them what happened and asked for prayer.

The response we received was beyond what I can describe with words. What an overwhelming, immediate response of faith we received from every person. Loved ones shared words of encouragement, biblical truths, and powerful prayers of agreement.

To my surprise, many folks shared how excited they were. Initially, I needed a moment to process that response. But upon further thought, I was moved by their faith that the season had come to an end with the previous company because God had something bigger and better in store for my husband’s career. On second thought, that was exciting!

One of the most empowering and impactful reminders a friend shared was that we were not alone. She reminded us of what the prophet Elisha prayed regarding his servant in 2nd Kings 6. “Open your eyes and see the army standing with you!!” She affirmed that our family was surrounded by God’s soldiers and encouraged us to declare: “This is how I fight my battles!” The burden of walking through that season alone lifted immediately and I am so grateful. C.S. Lewis said it best: “What I owe … is incalculable. Is there any pleasure on earth as great as a circle of Christian friends …?”

Dear Friend, I don’t know the weight of the burden you may be carrying today but here is a reminder which I hope helps you: “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. … A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 & 12 NLT) Invite your trusted circle of loved ones to come alongside you, pray for you, and encourage you. The support will be one of the greatest blessings to give thanks to God for.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” (Helen Keller)
~Joyce