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Tethers in the Storm

When Brad and I got engaged we asked a small group of close friends to pray for several weeks about our engagement and seek God's blessing on it. We both agreed we did not want to enter into marriage without HIS blessing. I realize this sounds a bit strange to some. I think it is best explained by our total trust in God. We had both seen God work powerfully in our lives and honestly trusted His ways over our own thinking. And sure that is code for "we had each MESSED our lives up trying to do things OUR way" before we met. When the day of blessing came there were precious words to confirm our union, scriptures given to anchor our marriage, and prayers to seal these words onto our hearts.

I continue to go back to my journal entry where these words and scriptures are recorded for strength on the days I know we, as a couple, are facing challenges. The next few days fall into that category. Tomorrow we will bury Brad's mom in Tennessee. I know it will be difficult but I also know that He has joined us together fully equipped for times like this. And I trust His peace will join us on this trip.

Last Easter when Katie Beth got baptized Brad's mom shared her favorite scripture "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1. As I hold the card she wrote this on I am reminded of all the ways and times of trouble HE has been MY refuge. These words have been framed and hung in Katie Beth's room as part of her Wall of Faith. I am thrilled that this truth holds such a rich spiritual heritage for our daughter.

My prayer is between the treasured words blessing our union to the wall of faith Katie Beth will come to understand the many tethers God has given her family to walk though the storms of life.

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