“This all has to stop,” my friend sobs on the other end of the phone.

I listen and nod. “I know,” I tell her. “I know.”

And as I grapple for words–any words that might give her comfort right now–my heart breaks for this sweet friend of mine.

This friend who, just an hour before our conversation, watched as her car was repossessed right out of her driveway on the day of her daughter’s 8th grade graduation.

This friend whose amazing husband has struggled with his health for years and can barely get out of bed some days.

This friend who has worked so hard to save their business and their home, only to lose both within the space of a year.

This friend who cares for her family (and for anyone else that crosses her path) with passion and perseverance like I’ve never seen before.

This friend.

Right now, she sees all that she knows crumbling around her.

She sees the goodbyes and closed doors and loss and heartache.

But I see how amazing she is.

I see her faith–rock solid and unwavering–and it increases my faith.

I see her determination to lead her family and let go of material things, and it makes me examine my heart and remember what’s really important.

I see her holding the ones she loves closer and tighter, and it makes me appreciate my own family even more.

I see her living on her knees, daily, with tear-stained cheeks raised to the Heavens, praying, waiting, and pressing on with expectancy.

Expectancy because she believes without a shadow of a doubt that God is good.

I see her celebrating her daughter’s graduation, even in the middle of their storm.

I see her encouraging me in my upcoming move to Idaho, reminding me that her family has moved too, and it all worked out.

I see her facing each day as a gift and cherishing each moment with her four kids (on the good and bad days).

And even though she cries on the other end of the phone, after a few minutes, her determination swells and her voice rallies, and once again she is filled with fire and hope.

This friend.

She’s going to get through this; I’m sure of it.

And not only that; she’s going to use what she’s been through to help others.

When she stands on that stage a few years from now, or writes that book to share her story, I know there will be many women out there going through the same thing who need to hear how to get through it.

And this friend of mine?

Even if she may not feel like it all the time, she’s got that one down.

Would you say a prayer for my friend and all the other moms and women out there who might be struggling with something right now? And if you have someone in your life who is facing challenges, take a minute to be intentional about encouraging them today. 

 

If you’re struggling in some way right now too, here are a couple of encouraging links:

Why you have to stop waiting for the future and begin living now

I need to rest

When your heart is breaking

And of course, a little chocolate never hurt!

A verse to inspire:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;  in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. – Proverbs 3:5-6