"Thems is the breaks, kid"....

Tough economic times seem to be the running theme on the news these days. We knew Michigan's economy was bad. Every time we get together with the 2 other couples in our little "group", we joke about how the unemployment rate is 50% at our gathering. Well, that went up to 66.6% as of Tuesday. 

T was laid off this week. It was tough news to take, with the deal on 'our' house being so close to being done. With being nearly able to realize our dreams. With our stuff still in boxes, ready for the big move. With being able to go full-time at the doctor's office and quit working at Meijer all together.

But, as I've learned from when I was a small child: Our plans are not God's plans. Right away we knew what we had to do. Immediately we withdrew the offer on the house. I've begun to unpack boxes- back into our apartment. I've spoken with both of my bosses and I will be going to 40 hours a week at the doctor's office, and working 2 weekends a month at Meijer to ensure we have adequate finances for our bills. We've made plans to sell our extra things-- the new (used) John Deere 214 lawn tractor T's been drooling over, the extra microwave, entertainment center, coffee pot, pots, pans, silverware & dishes we had stowed away in the basement.   

Oddly, I am okay with all of this. At peace. Yeah, I'm a little stressed. Its going to be a huge responsibility to be the one "bringing home the bacon", so to speak. But not something that is unattainable. And I know its far beyond something that we can control.  

As I consider everything, I know God's taking care of us. His timing, as always, is perfect. The second appraisal on the house had only just been ordered, therefore we didn't have to lose money a second time on a second appraisal. I was a week away from giving my notice at Meijer, but hadn't yet.  We've worked hard to pay off bills, therefore they are very much whittled down. I think sometimes He just feels He needs to nudge me on the shoulder and make it perfectly clear that HE is in control. Not us. No matter what our plans may be, they may not be His will. And no matter what we do to get our way, what we want isn't always what He needs for us. 

Of course, its all quite humbling. But as humbling as it may be, its also comforting, knowing we can leave it all in God's hands. He will carry our burdens, if we will only be willing to allow Him to do so. Now, I'm not one to preach and teach and carry on about my faith, but I really feel that He's asking for a small testimony of His faithfulness. That perhaps there will be someone who reads this post and can gather just a small measure of peace and comfort.