Recently I came across one of my childhood books, “Always There is God” by Robbie Trent. It is a simple book based on scriptures describing God, His creation and how God has always been.  My favorite part was still marked. “God is making me! I can see myself in a clear stream; I am changing and growing every year. I too, am someone God is making.”

I remember having conversations with God at an early age and had a heart to serve Him. I was blessed to have parents that were in ministry, concerned for my spiritual development and nurtured God’s leading in my life. I felt God’s call on my life at the age of 15 and celebrated my 16th birthday on my first foreign mission’s trip.

Being raised in a Christian home did not mean that life was always smooth. There were times that I was too busy “doing my own thing” – and my life was not pleasing to the Lord.  In my youth, I am sure that I caused my godly parents to grieve for me - no doubt they were praying! Even in my times of disobedience, God showed me His way and loved me anyway. He has revealed himself in ways to me I never would have even dreamed of since I have obeyed Him. Putting aside the “me” and putting my faith in Christ, I only have a desire to grow, and get to know Him better.

Walking with God these past 35 years has been incredible. He has carried me through uncertainty, illness, loss and saved me from death.  He brought the people I needed into my life at the times I needed them. He has brought peace and joy when I felt despair. This is not the life that I dreamed of as a child, but I thank God for what He has done in my life and the many blessings that He has given me.

Is my life perfect? No. Does life always run smooth for me? No. But I am confident of this: God is sovereign and He is in control of all things. I strive each day to place my trust in God, knowing that He will work things out in accordance to His perfect will.

God has truly blessed my family and me. I am married to my best friend and partner, Mitch Brand and I am blessed to share in the lives of three amazing children; Tiffany, Kenneth and Mindy. Our family has also grown recently with the addition of a son-in law and grandson.

By God's special favor and mighty power, I have been given the wonderful privilege of serving Him.  He continues to exceed my expectations.
My childhood book ends, with this reminder, “God is not far, from every one of us. Because of His love, We Live, And Move, And Grow…”
Amen!!

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