Previously published on 7/2/2013

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, He has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live. – Ecclesiastes 3:11-12

As I sit to write today, it’s exactly one week before my wedding day! I know a lady never tells her age (at least that’s what I was told growing up in the South), but it is important for you to know as you journey with me. I am 34 years old. I’ve never been married. And, I’ve loved one man since I was 15 years old. 17 years ago, The Lord gave me a promise that I would one day marry him. In 7 days, I will see the fulfillment of that dream.

It’s been a long road. When we were dating, in college, the road to marriage and family seemed as straight as an arrow. When life took us in different directions, I struggled to understand why God would promise something impossible. There were lonely years. Years of doubt. And, it was hard to hold onto that long ago promise.

But, today, I sit in great anticipation of a day that makes all of the other days make sense. I can look back across our path and see God’s fingerprints everywhere. He truly does make things beautiful in His time, His perfect time. When we’re at the beginning of the journey, it seems so hard, long and maybe impossible. We most often do not know where the road will lead or where it ends. I know it can be so challenging.

I want to offer hope. I love for others to see, in our story, that God is faithful and He really does come through for His children! My brother often reminds me that, “in ALL things, God works for our good”. It doesn’t always seem good and there are times we’d rather just take the easy road. But, trust me, it’s worth it to walk in obedience. The reward is so great!

Wherever you are in your journey, keep pressing forward. Take heart. Today is not the end. The Lord has set eternity in our hearts. There is something so much greater than this that awaits. Hold onto Jesus. Hold onto hope. Anticipate the joy and fight for it.

And, when your dream comes true, drink in every moment! He has a way of planting a new dream once one has been fulfilled. Treasure the mountaintop experiences and store them in your heart. Remember the Lord’s faithfulness; it makes the darkest nights bearable. Be joyful and do good and wait to see the beauty in His time.