When Waiting on God Is Hard

Waiting. As I continue to get older and grow closer to God, I have realized that the fabric of life involves waiting, and sometimes lots of it. We wait for so many things. We wait for marriage. We wait for career moves. We wait for children. We wait for healing. We wait for answers to our prayers. We wait for change.
 We simply wait throughout different circumstances in our lives, and the longer we wait the more the wait itself can become a type of suffering that can weigh us down and slowly we can begin to doubt, become discouraged and lose our sanity without having the right perspective. Waiting on God can seem arbitrary and unnecessary at times, but an all-knowing all-loving God teaches His children that within our wait there is a purpose and an opportunity for our faith to grown in Him and in ways that we could have never imagined! God does have a purpose in our wait, but the question is will we make ourselves fall into misery and keep asking God "Why?" or will we step out in faith trusting in Him with a smile on our face knowing that He has a purpose and a plan for whatever we may be facing?
"Come and see what God has done: He is awesome in His deeds toward the children of men. For you, O God, have tested us; you have tried us as silver is tried..you laid a crushing burden on our backs..we went through fire and through water; yet you have brought us out to a place of abundance." -Psalm 66
This scripture should strengthen our confidence both in His power and His goodness. God's good deeds towards His children do involve trials. Being tried as silver, having crushing burdens laid on our backs and going through fire. We grow. We are strengthened. We are being perfected. God not only brings His people to trials, but He brings them through them.

Passive or Expectant?

We either wait passively, or we wait expectantly. A passive person hopes something good will happen and is willing to sit around waiting to see if it does. After a short time, he gives up, saying, "That’s it! I'm done! I've waited and waited and nothing is happening."
The expectant person, on the other hand, is hopeful, believing the answer is just around the corner, due to arrive any minute. His belief is not a passive thing. His heart is full of hope, trust and  expecting his problem to be solved at any moment. He wakes up every morning expecting to find his answer. He may wait and wait, but suddenly what he’s been waiting for has happened and God comes through (as ALWAYS)


Expect It to Happen....Because It Will

It’s just like when a woman is pregnant; it's said that she is expecting a baby. She carries inside her the promise of a baby, and even though she can’t see it, she knows it's there. She can feel it. The moment she learns of her pregnancy, she begins to plan for her baby's arrival. She starts collecting items she will need and busily gets the nursery ready. She actively prepares for the arrival of the baby because she knows the promise will be fulfilled—it's just a matter of time. She is expectant and she'll wait as long as it takes.

Waiting means "to expect" or "to look for." But remember, it also means "to serve"
Our act of waiting isn’t supposed to be spent sitting around passively hoping that something will happen sometime soon. We must get up....get out...help others....and WAIT.
Waiting also gives us the opportunity to grow, learn and wait on God's perfect timing.

I have tried the waiting on God period both ways when I have been waiting for an answer from Him. At one time or another, I have sat back passively doing nothing just waiting, wondering why and when my answer will come. I can tell you that that is no way to wait on God. I have found that being active while waiting is by far the best solution. Lift others up, offer charity and service to those around you daily, meditate on His words and promises, pray, simply focus on someone else and their needs instead of just your own. 

 

FAITH

When we ask God to answer a question or solve a problem, we need to be eagerly awaiting His answer. We need to be serving actively, aggressively and expectantly. When our hearts are eager to hear from God, He loves to rush in suddenly with His solution. In many cases this waiting period actually serves as a time of preparation for the answer. If God answered right away, many of us would be ill-prepared to handle His solution. How great is our God that He is watching over us and preparing us for the perfect time! Sometimes...maybe a lot of times.... we will find ourselves in such horrible messes that it's hard to imagine waiting even one more second. But we need to keep waiting on God and trusting Him with a sweet and simple faith. When we wait patiently and expectantly on God in the midst of our horrible circumstances, suddenly God breaks through and all of the weight is lifted off of our shoulders! So don't you ever give up! Don’t you ever stop believing and trusting! Stay full of hope, trust and expectation. God's power is limitless, and He'll break through for YOU. ALWAYS. Our wait is sometimes painful, but it will be pale in

 comparison to the glory we will one day see in eternity.

Happy Friday! Hope you have a great day!!

Speak Life.

I am so excited that I got to finally see Toby Mac's new video for his song "Speak Life".

Speak life is a song that Toby Mac has been planning to write ever since he read the 

following quote from Brennan Manning's book, Abba's Child. 

"Anyone  we come in contact with, we either give LIFE or we drain it; there is no neutral exchange" 

–Brennan Manning

In this song, it so simply and beautifully displays that we should always "speak life" to others that we come into contact with on a daily basis. God has given us the gift to speak and communicate with each other. Lets use that wonderful gift that He has given us to lift others up and be a light to them, doing all great things both in words AND in action to glorify Him.

We are here to encourage, edify, love and aid one another in all circumstances testifying the 

love of Christ through compassion and love. Giving hope when there is none, giving joy when 

there is despair, and praying for those that need His love to fill them when they are empty.

So today (and everyday)......Speak Life.

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good  for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
-Ephesians 4:29

18 Months Or Less.

18 months or less. This is the time-frame that my Dad's doctor told him yesterday on what his life expectancy currently is. Josh told me last night when I got home from work. I am waiting for my Dad to come out and tell me himself. My heart is heavy for my Dad. I can't imagine how he must be feeling right now. When my Dad asked the doctor what he can do from here on out, he responded and said "Be grateful for all the many little things in your life and continue to tell your son and daughter just how much you love them".
I found myself on my knees last night crying out to my God. Praying for peace.  Praying for comfort. Praying for strength. Praying for direction.
Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning. -Psalm 30:5
On my way into work this morning, God spoke something so simple and amazing over me...
Do not trust in the arm of flesh, but put all your trust in me. I am the author and giver of life.
He is the author and giver of life. He is all-knowing. He is perfect. His timing is perfect. I can take rest in Him, because it's in Him I can find my peace, my comfort, my strength,  and direction. It's only in and through Him. I am trusting Him and His promises. I know that He will not cause pain without something new to be born (Isaiah 66:9) 

I wept for awhile last night, but I have so much joy this morning! I love my God. He is good! 

Today.

Don't miss out on today because you are imagining that tomorrow will be "better" -Anonymous
I'm sure there are a lot of things that we would all like to change about our current  circumstances, but there are advantages, freedoms and joys that will be gone in life's next scene. 
So live for today and look forward to what tomorrow will bring. 
"The secret is Christ in me, no me in a different set of circumstances. The bigger story of our life begins at the moment we understand this truth. Life does not begin when you get married, land your dream job or board a plan to travel the world. It is found in the beautiful, powerful love of Christ, which changes us in the midst of all circumstances, especially the ones we find most difficult. We need only to be willing" -Elisabeth Elliot

Make plans. Look forward to the future. Be grateful and cherish today. Trust God. Hold onto His promises.

I Am a Mormon Monday: Meet Aubrey from Dreaming About Someday

blog // bloglovin // twitter // instagram // pinterest 

I am a single working girl dreaming of someday being a stay at home something. I am a lifestyle blogger obsessed with diet coke, cardigans, sparkle, and painted nails. I am a Mormon!

My name is Aubrey, and I blog over at Dreaming About Someday. I blog about a little of this and a little of that. I blog about everything from crafts to fashion to running to products and everything in between. Besides documenting and sharing my life, my favorite thing about blogging is connecting with others. Come on over and say hi. I love meeting new friends.

What is Hope and what do you hope for?

Hope is the idea that in the end everything will work out. No matter what bad things happen in life...death, accidents, failed marriages, job loss, premature babies, unmet expectations, disappointments, sadness, etc. there is always hope. Hope is so connected with faith. The only way for me to really get through the tough times (whatever they may be) is to have that faith and hope that Heavenly Father is watching over me. 

How do you live your faith?

Living my faith is something I learned from a young age. I have been a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints my whole life, but there came a point where I had to decide for myself to live the things I was always taught. Living my faith means doing what is right not because someone is telling me to but because I want to. It means loving and serving others. It means standing up for what is right. It means trying my best to be like my Savior Jesus Christ.

Thanks so much for having me Kimberly!

.............................................................................................................................................................. Are you interested in being apart of I Am a Mormon Monday?  If so, please email me and I will fill you in on all the details! Email: bostonksox@gmail.com

Groopdealz Wishlist

Groopdealz has some awesome deals that you should get your hands all over right now.
Aztec Band Printed Watches
This on trend urban Aztec print watch features a fabric band and white plan face. Watch  face is about 1 inch long with large silver plated numbers 1-12. Comes in 13 different styles!

Sailor's Knot Headbands

Each sailor's knot headband is made of super soft, stretchy knit fabric. They are the perfect accessory for any activity: from running to a yoga session, brunch and shopping with the girls, or a fantastic night out! Select from 4 different colors/styles!

Floral Statement Jeweled Necklace

You will be sure to get compliments on this necklace!  This necklace comes in Turquoise, Coral, Purple and Mint

Kantha Pillow Covers

Add a little Spring to your home decor with these Kantha Pillow Covers! Fished with Beautiful Embroidery Stitched Detailing. Zipper closure for easy cleaning. Each pillow measures 18x18. 5 Colors to choose from: Blue, Red, Green, Brown & Beige

Fashion Friday Link Up: 2014 Spring Fashion Trends

Bomber Jackets

Boxy, Cropped Jackets

Collarless Coats

Collar Button Down Shirts

Pretty Pastels

Shift Blouses

Wide Leg Trousers

Tea-Length Skirts

Sweater Dressing

What are you favorite Spring Trends for 2014?

Girl Scout Cookie Thin Mint Milkshake

Have a few Thin Mints left over from your Girl Scout cookie stash? If so, here’s a yummy milkshake I made with a few I was able to spare.
Ingredients: 1/2 cup milk
8 Thin Mints 1 cup vanilla ice cream

Directions: Blend cookies, milk and ice cream in blender until smooth. Enjoy!

Happenings

Jacket: Thrifted // Top: Guess // Skirt: eShakti // Bracelet: Ettika // Shoes: Target // Purse: from Josh // Sunglasses: Thrifted
Happening #1 On Saturday, Josh and I attended a 2 hour car seat training class (one of the requirements to becoming foster parents) Even though it was two hours, the time just seemed to go by so slowly. All the information was very helpful. Turn's out, Josh knew more about car seats that I did! He says " What do expect? I have 20 nieces and nephews! I have had many experiences with car seats." Once the class was over, everyone got a free car seat..we ended up with two. Don't ask me how, but his first name is Josh. The trainer had each of us drive our cars up to the front and install the car seat so she could approve it. Needless to say, we passed with flying colors! I cannot tell you how excited we are! My heart melts when Josh and I got out and we look in the back and see that car seat there. This is happening. This is really happening! On our way home from the class, we decided to go to lunch, we park and before going in Josh says: "You make me so happy. I can't wait for us to start our very own family. The best part about all of it is it's with you" 
Happening #2 A little over a week ago, my Dad was rushed to the emergency room. Just a little background information for you..my Dad has to have a lung transplant because his lungs are so damaged. In order to get on the "list" there is a series of tests (a lot of tests) that he has to take in order to get accepted on the list. The doctor ordered to have a CT Scan done and found a mass that he was concerned about, but he couldn't make out exactly what it was. He ordered to have another CT Scan done for the following week, but this time with die so he could make out exactly what it was. He had this test done on a Wednesday. The doctor called him Thursday morning around 10am and told him that the mass was aneurysm on one of his arteries and he needed to go to the emergency room right away. I was at work when I got the call from Josh and immediately rushed to the hospital. Within just 2 hours, my Dad was taken in for surgery. Just before that, we met with the Chaplain to discuss my Dad's wishes and desires if something happened to him during surgery or after. That was so hard to discuss. Just before he was ready to be wheeled into the surgical room, he held my hand and said (Dad) "You tell me that you will see me again if I die right?" (Me)"Yes Dad, I know that I will with all my heart" (Dad) "Well I guess I am not afraid if I die then, my only worry is leaving you. If I do die, I just ask one thing.....please don't take a long time to get up there!" I laughed and cried at the same time. The surgery took about 2-3 hours. Josh and I sat in the waiting room as we waited for the call from the doctor with results on how the surgery went. The phone rang, my heart dropped. "Mrs. Bonham, we are done with the surgery and it was a success. Your Dad is doing okay. He will still be under for the night, but you are more than welcome to see him in about 30 minutes or you can come back tomorrow" We decided to stay and see my Dad even though he was out. When I saw him, I held his hand, gave him a kiss on his forehead and prayed to God thanking and praising Him for His goodness. My Dad was in the hospital for a week and is now back home with us. Every doctor that we came into contact with said that my Dad was very very lucky because the aneurysm was so close to bursting. This was a complete miracle. If the doctor hadn't of ordered that specific test first, this would have never been found and he wouldn't be here right now. This was all God without a shadow of a doubt. I am so grateful for His goodness, His grace, His love, His promises, His miracles, His healing, and that fact that He is simply ALWAYS there through every single thing. I am in awe of Him. I love him so much! I was even more grateful when I heard this story: Josh mentioned to be the 2nd night that we were in the hospital that one of his good friends Zach, his Mom died that week from an aneurysm on her artery. Zach and his Mom were talking and laughing. Zach left the room for a few minutes and when he came back he found his Mom on the floor. She was gone. It was too late. I cannot even begin to imagine. My thoughts and prayers go out to that family.
Happening #3 Josh and I are FINALLY going away for a few days. I cannot tell you how excited I am! I honestly, since we have been married can't remember the last time that Josh and I got away just the two of us. We are going to Lake Havasu for 3 days and I am going to soak up every single bit of it. The best part is, everything is paid for! I am counting down the days until then!
4. I have to speak at church this coming Sunday! The topic of the talk is Perfect Love Casts Out All Fear (1 John 4:18) I have been working on it for a few days now and really like how it is coming along. Wish me luck!
**There is one other huge happening that I would love to tell you about, but lets save that for next time ;)

A Fancy Giveaway

  Hello all! I am so excited to share this amazing product with you today. I was ecstatic when Alexandra from Fancy Slips contacted me and asked me to do a product review and giveaway on my blog. For all you women out there that love to dress classy and modest, this is a product that you have to have! Nowadays the shorter, tighter and smaller the better. I don't know about you, but I have so much trouble trying to find modest dresses and skirts. Fancy Slips is the perfect solution! Have you come acrros a dress or skirt that you love, but its to short or has a huge slit up the back? Try a Fancy Slip! They are designed to impress your dress and turn something that isn't so modest into something that is. Fancy Slips is based in Highland, Utah. Each Fancy Slip is designed with anti-static pongy polyester lining material, so it feels as though it isn't even there, and doesn't gather or bunch up as you walk. Now I need to get one in every color and style! If you are a Fancy Slip fan, today is your lucky day! Enter below for a chance to win one for yourself!  

 

  Dress: Thrifted // Necklace: Ross // Bracelet: Thrifted //  Betsey Purse: TJMaxx // Shoes: Thrifted // Sunglasses: Thrifted // Slip: Fancy Slips   a Rafflecopter giveaway

I Am a Mormon Monday: Meet Ashley

Blog

Hi!  I'm Ashley and I have a lifestyle blog called "Beautiful Life".  I love looking for the happy moments in each day, telling ridiculous stories about the middle schoolers I teach, and what every day life is like as a newly married.  I keep things open and honest, and love sharing the stories that make me laugh hardest.  Come visit and share in my adventures, happiness, sad times, embarrassing moments, and love for life.

What is hope?

To me, hope is happiness.  It's knowing that all things will get better in time.  It's little reminders that you are loved.  It's working towards accomplishing dreams and the little tiny successes in each day.  Hope is the perfect sunrise or a beautiful sunset.  It's spending time with family and knowing that they can be yours forever.  Hope is dreaming to live with God again someday.

How do you live your faith?

I put family first.  I look for the happiness that surrounds me.  Each day I am reminded that there is so much more to live for and I set my eyes on that goal.  I strive to be kind to my husband and serve him.  I look for ways to brighten other's days.  I teach my students good principles like honesty and responsibility.  I try to be a friend and help others in need.  I pray and read my scriptures.  I dress modestly.  I remember that I am a Daughter of God.

Thank you so much for having me Kimberly! ................................................................................................................................................................... If you are interested in being apart of the I Am a Mormon Monday series on Diary of a Brown  Eyed Girl, send me an email and I will fill you in on all the details. Email: bostonksox@gmail.com