In 2004, I went
through a divorce from my first husband. I was completely and utterly broken. I
daily dreamed of marrying a good, Christian man and having a bus full of
children. “If only…” was the thought that entered my head daily.
If only I had a good
husband.
If only I had
children.
Well, four years
later, obviously God is an amazing God and blessed me beyond my wildest dreams.
I have a husband who loves Jesus more than me and three beautiful girls.
However, the “if onlys…” never seem to go away. You see, we always lived in
condos or townhomes when we were newly married living in Seattle.
If only I had a house…
and with a yard and a garage, preferably.
And as the years went
on; we finally got to rent a house. Oh, my “if only” was answered.
But then, you see “if
only we could buy a house right now”
Or “if only I looked
like her”
Or “if only I had a
house that was 2,000 more square feet”
Or “if only we had
more money in the bank”
Or “if only I had a
newer car”
Or “if only I could
have one dang moment to myself… for a whole day without interruptions”
Or “if only we could
take that much needed trip”
Oh, the “if onlys”
sometimes consume me. And yet, I forget about the broken girl who prayed and
prayed for a family.
I always try to
remember what Paul said in Philippians. "Not that I
speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever
circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means,
and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have
learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having
abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him
who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:11-13
Today, thank God for
what you have and pray for Him to show you the blessings you don’t see. What an
amazing, loving Father in Heaven we have, that loves us no matter what. He is
all we need.
And “if only” I could
get a shower today.
Maybe tomorrow.
Thank you Jesus.