From Traumatic Beginnings to Hopeful Endings – Mary’s Story of Loss, Grief, and Faith in God That Kept Her Moving Forward

When Mary found out her 35-year-old father unexpectedly died in a farm accident, she and her family were devastated. In an instant, their world seemed to fall apart as they tried to process the trauma, had to purchase a new home, and her mom started a full-time position. Through God’s strength, her family was able to keep moving forward, and Mary’s faith was what kept her grounded during seasons of anxiety, depression, and fear. In her testimony, she shares how God grew her through her trials and planted a desire in her heart to minister to others journeying through trauma.

Seeking Guidance and Peace Amid Adversity

Adversity is critical to our spiritual growth just like exercise is critical to our physical health.  Adversity allows for growth, strengthens our character, and sharpens our willpower. In today’s post, Joseph Shumway shares how we can harness the winds of adversity by setting our sails to increased capacity, following Christ, and encouraging others to join us on our journey. We were made for such a time as this and can trust that God has the divine power to lift us to great heights from what appears to be an unbearable burden.  Like Paul, may we discover that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness, and “most gladly therefore glory in our infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon us” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Moving Beyond Grief

When we faced with lingering, unanswered questions of ‘what if’ and ‘what now?’, we can draw closer to God who walks with us in our pain and allows something new to be born from it. In today’s post, guest writer Heather Gillis shares how God helped her move beyond grief after she lost her son to a life-threatening illness. Her story is powerful and encouraging!