One of the first scripture verses I memorized was 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 memorized those words out of necessity when I struggled through the darkest times of Randy’s drinking years. God, how will I ever make it through all this pain and uncertainty? My prayers seemed like a broken record. But when I look back, it is miraculous to see that the Lord did stretch out a straight path in front of me. Not an easy path, but one that honored and pleased God and one that was best for our family. I couldn’t see it then, so I had to muster enough faith to take the next step into the unknown. I think that’s really the essence of faith–walking to the very edge of what we know, and then taking that next step into uncharted territory. One step further along the journey.

When Randy lost his job and career as an air traffic controller more than 10 years ago, it really seemed like the end of the world, and it was–at least the end of the world as we knew it. How would we ever make it ? What we didn’t realize was that the world we knew had to change dramatically in order for Randy to be able to find healing from the death-grip of alcoholism. We have to constantly remind ourselves when we’re tempted to slip into self- pity.

Randy has had a tough time. “We had it so good,” he laments. “We didn’t have to worry about money and we could have been retired now with more income than what we’re both making now.” Sigh…

It’s easy to forget what was happening back then. What difference would money make when your life is a constant struggle against a powerful addiction? I gently remind Randy (and myself) of that reality. Randy would not have survived if he had continued drinking. I praise the great mercy of God! Not only did he save Randy (spiritually, physically, and emotionally), but he also spared us of tragedy–a catastrophic mistake on his job or killing someone on the road when he was driving under the influence.

Lord, thank you for intervening! I needed to be reminded of this today when I look at the dwindling funds in our checking account and the stack of bills that haven’t been paid this month.
Maybe you’re in a similar situation where you’re tempted to look back to the “good old days”, wishing you were still there, but knowing where you are today is far better for you, though not always the easy place to be.

No, I definitely don’t want to go back to Egypt, Lord. Please show me the straight path ahead of me and give me courage to take the next step.

I pray He will guide your steps as well.

Blessings!

Deb