Faith in the Key of Plan B (Alece Ronzino)

Alece, your story has always gripped my heart. Brandi and I pray for you often. Thanks for allowing Christ to shine through you in such a difficult situation. Your faith in the midst of this trial has brought Him great glory.
My recent post A Prayer Breakthrough?

Alece, your story has always gripped my heart. Brandi and I pray for you often. Thanks for allowing Christ to shine through you in such a difficult situation. Your faith in the midst of this trial has brought Him great glory.
My recent post A Prayer Breakthrough?

Alece, This post is so powerful. Thank you for sharing your heart, your brokenness, and your faith. God is using you to do great things. I can see it in every word you write, every step you make. Thankful to have you as a friend.

And I am going to be stewing on this for awhile…."But I can’t see the big picture from my tiny corner in the vastness of eternity.

Because the truth is, His character never changes. No matter what I’m experiencing in my life, God is loving, faithful, and trustworthy. He is just and merciful. He is Healer and Redeemer. And He doesn’t waste a thing."

Alece, This post is so powerful. Thank you for sharing your heart, your brokenness, and your faith. God is using you to do great things. I can see it in every word you write, every step you make. Thankful to have you as a friend.

And I am going to be stewing on this for awhile…."But I can’t see the big picture from my tiny corner in the vastness of eternity.

Because the truth is, His character never changes. No matter what I’m experiencing in my life, God is loving, faithful, and trustworthy. He is just and merciful. He is Healer and Redeemer. And He doesn’t waste a thing."

Alece, your faith, your understanding of your journey just blow me away. Your story and your life is powerful. Beautiful. Thank you.
My recent post Prepared for Communion?

Alece ~
I truly love your heart. Meeting you for the first time and then learning your story broke me at a whole other level. I felt guilt and frustration towards God knowing that He "Could Have" for you but didn't…

Your post has been a huge part of my journey this year. I HONESTLY thought that because I was obedient and did some really hard work to restore my marriage as well as other relationships effected by the affair that I would now enter into "the second half of Job's life"! It had nothing to do with our marriage being restored but EVERYTHING about ME and MY willingness to be obedient to God and Him blessing me for it. Sounds crazy I know!

My mind-set was not from a selfish standpoint like I deserved it but more from I know GOD CAN and so HE WILL! Right? Moving to Nashville and being a part of Cross Point was such a huge part of our redemption process for so many reasons and I convinced myself that our family was entering the promise land. Not because Cross Point is best church (although it is amazing) but that God would use CP to allow blessings to flow! When we made the move and life and ministry got hard I finally realized that:

"There’s a difference between faith in what God can do and faith in who God is."

AND

"He is more concerned about my holiness than my happiness."

I have had to apologize to Pete & Brandi, staff members, my kids and Justin for holding them all hostage to make PLAN B return to PLAN A! It has been a long and hard year but I treasure that the Lord was concerned about my holiness than my happiness! He has taught me that even when the Israelites made it to the promise land they still had hardship! I am thankful for family, friends and a God who love me through the refining process!

Love you!
~ Trish

Alece, your faith, your understanding of your journey just blow me away. Your story and your life is powerful. Beautiful. Thank you.
My recent post Prepared for Communion?

Alece ~
I truly love your heart. Meeting you for the first time and then learning your story broke me at a whole other level. I felt guilt and frustration towards God knowing that He "Could Have" for you but didn't…

Your post has been a huge part of my journey this year. I HONESTLY thought that because I was obedient and did some really hard work to restore my marriage as well as other relationships effected by the affair that I would now enter into "the second half of Job's life"! It had nothing to do with our marriage being restored but EVERYTHING about ME and MY willingness to be obedient to God and Him blessing me for it. Sounds crazy I know!

My mind-set was not from a selfish standpoint like I deserved it but more from I know GOD CAN and so HE WILL! Right? Moving to Nashville and being a part of Cross Point was such a huge part of our redemption process for so many reasons and I convinced myself that our family was entering the promise land. Not because Cross Point is best church (although it is amazing) but that God would use CP to allow blessings to flow! When we made the move and life and ministry got hard I finally realized that:

"There’s a difference between faith in what God can do and faith in who God is."

AND

"He is more concerned about my holiness than my happiness."

I have had to apologize to Pete & Brandi, staff members, my kids and Justin for holding them all hostage to make PLAN B return to PLAN A! It has been a long and hard year but I treasure that the Lord was concerned about my holiness than my happiness! He has taught me that even when the Israelites made it to the promise land they still had hardship! I am thankful for family, friends and a God who love me through the refining process!

Love you!
~ Trish

Love this. Thank you for sharing this.
My recent post Spring Birthdays… and a dog picture

Love this. Thank you for sharing this.
My recent post Spring Birthdays… and a dog picture

Amen girl. NOBODY, no man, no woman, can take away that plan. I'm so thankful for that… I pray a time of singing will come again for you soon. That houses will once again be bought in the land. Deeds will be signed. Trees will be planted…. (Jer 32 & Isa 51)

You may be in the desert, but you are sharpening and encouraging us all and fighting with everything in you to hold on and it's beyond beautiful.

Ah, Sovereign Lord… Nothing is too hard for you… "I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul."
-Jer 32

The Lord will surely comfort Zion and will look with compassion on all her ruins; he will make her deserts like Eden,her wastelands like the garden of the Lord. Joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the sound of singing.
-Isa 51:3

Amen girl. NOBODY, no man, no woman, can take away that plan. I'm so thankful for that… I pray a time of singing will come again for you soon. That houses will once again be bought in the land. Deeds will be signed. Trees will be planted…. (Jer 32 & Isa 51)

You may be in the desert, but you are sharpening and encouraging us all and fighting with everything in you to hold on and it's beyond beautiful.

Ah, Sovereign Lord… Nothing is too hard for you… "I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul."
-Jer 32

The Lord will surely comfort Zion and will look with compassion on all her ruins; he will make her deserts like Eden,her wastelands like the garden of the Lord. Joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the sound of singing.
-Isa 51:3

"From my microscopic vantage point, it often seems like God’s actions and inactions—what He allows—aren’t consistent with His character. But I can’t see the big picture from my tiny corner in the vastness of eternity."

That's the crux of everything to me. In the last six months, God's shown me little pieces of the result of "bad" things that happened to me. Something that happened five years ago which almost crushed me ended up preparing me to help two dozen people who had to face what I faced back then.

It's still hard and I still struggle with it when times get tough but it DOES get a little easier to trust.

Alece, you're an inspiration. To say that I'm thankful God brought me across your path would be understating it.
My recent post Crosspoint Bellevue announces campus opening outreach!

"From my microscopic vantage point, it often seems like God’s actions and inactions—what He allows—aren’t consistent with His character. But I can’t see the big picture from my tiny corner in the vastness of eternity."

That's the crux of everything to me. In the last six months, God's shown me little pieces of the result of "bad" things that happened to me. Something that happened five years ago which almost crushed me ended up preparing me to help two dozen people who had to face what I faced back then.

It's still hard and I still struggle with it when times get tough but it DOES get a little easier to trust.

Alece, you're an inspiration. To say that I'm thankful God brought me across your path would be understating it.
My recent post Crosspoint Bellevue announces campus opening outreach!

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thank you, pete. i'm really grateful for your and brandi's prayers and friendship.
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

i'm gonna be stewing on it for a while too… love you, linds.
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, faye!
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, pete. i'm really grateful for your and brandi's prayers and friendship.
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

i'm gonna be stewing on it for a while too… love you, linds.
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, faye!
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, faye!
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, pete. i'm really grateful for your and brandi's prayers and friendship.
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, pete. i'm really grateful for your and brandi's prayers and friendship.
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

i'm gonna be stewing on it for a while too… love you, linds.
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

i'm gonna be stewing on it for a while too… love you, linds.
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, faye!
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, faye!
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

thank you, faye!
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

wow, trish. that is so huge. i can see ways i've tried to do the same thing in my own life as well… man…

i'm looking forward to spending some time with you in a few weeks when i'm back up in nashville…
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

wow, trish. that is so huge. i can see ways i've tried to do the same thing in my own life as well… man…

i'm looking forward to spending some time with you in a few weeks when i'm back up in nashville…
My recent post faith in the key of plan b

So beautifully said, Alece. You are inspiring!

So beautifully said, Alece. You are inspiring!

oh, alece…..i'm so thankful He wastes nothing.

nothing is wasted w/Him, whew.

it's moment by moment….you are so right-on.

anchoring myself to Him with you today, my friend.

oh, alece…..i'm so thankful He wastes nothing.

nothing is wasted w/Him, whew.

it's moment by moment….you are so right-on.

anchoring myself to Him with you today, my friend.

you have a way with words that captures people's hearts. thank you once again for allowing yourself to be vulnerable. even if i don't know you, God has put you in my heart to pray for you…. so even if you get tired and weary…you've got one sister here in SoCal who is holding u up in prayer.

you have a way with words that captures people's hearts. thank you once again for allowing yourself to be vulnerable. even if i don't know you, God has put you in my heart to pray for you…. so even if you get tired and weary…you've got one sister here in SoCal who is holding u up in prayer.

Inspiring faith and trust you have
My recent post Amazing Does Not Always Deliver

Inspiring faith and trust you have
My recent post Amazing Does Not Always Deliver

A-MAZ-ING.

As always.
My recent post And Then… There were Four

A-MAZ-ING.

As always.
My recent post And Then… There were Four

so true… thank you for reminding us all to concentrate on His face and heart… not just His gifts… i need this reminder often… love u girl!
My recent post Up Close and Personal

so true… thank you for reminding us all to concentrate on His face and heart… not just His gifts… i need this reminder often… love u girl!
My recent post Up Close and Personal

Thanks for always being a great example of faith, even when it isn't so easy.
My recent post Open Swim

Thanks for always being a great example of faith, even when it isn't so easy.
My recent post Open Swim

Wow Alece… I've read through this three times. i don't know the full extent of your story but i know that it hurts. when the hurt happens i tend to see God so differently than before and yes… He never changes. I think what changes is how we view Him and His actions and what might seem to be lack of action in our lives. when really… Since He is God… the plan He might have for us is far greater than we could imagine… as in… i'm going to allow you to go through hell a bit to build you up to see life differently so you can have an even more effective and fullfiling life than you thought you were going to have…
i'm proud of you and proud of the way you use your voice and story to influence others. thanks for this post:)
My recent post Are You Pursuing Your Worth With Great Diligence?

Wow Alece… I've read through this three times. i don't know the full extent of your story but i know that it hurts. when the hurt happens i tend to see God so differently than before and yes… He never changes. I think what changes is how we view Him and His actions and what might seem to be lack of action in our lives. when really… Since He is God… the plan He might have for us is far greater than we could imagine… as in… i'm going to allow you to go through hell a bit to build you up to see life differently so you can have an even more effective and fullfiling life than you thought you were going to have…
i'm proud of you and proud of the way you use your voice and story to influence others. thanks for this post:)
My recent post Are You Pursuing Your Worth With Great Diligence?

Kyle, I just read your comment in a Yoda voice, and it was pretty funny.
My recent post Too Easily Pleased

Kyle, I just read your comment in a Yoda voice, and it was pretty funny.
My recent post Too Easily Pleased

I don't know really what to say. This has moved me tremendously. While our situations are very different, the crashing of a heart is the crashing of a heart.

"He is more concerned about my holiness than my happiness." This resonates with me deeply.

"So right now, I’m choosing to anchor myself in the unmovable bedrock of God’s character." Me too, Alece. Me, too. Thank you so much for sharing your heart here. You have spoken to my situation and encouraged me greatly. Can't wait to actually meet you one day!

My recent post Too Easily Pleased

I don't know really what to say. This has moved me tremendously. While our situations are very different, the crashing of a heart is the crashing of a heart.

"He is more concerned about my holiness than my happiness." This resonates with me deeply.

"So right now, I’m choosing to anchor myself in the unmovable bedrock of God’s character." Me too, Alece. Me, too. Thank you so much for sharing your heart here. You have spoken to my situation and encouraged me greatly. Can't wait to actually meet you one day!

My recent post Too Easily Pleased

Alece, I follow your posts as much as I can. They are awesome-you are awesome. I am experiencing a similar situation with my husband and it seems like you are going through the same emotions that I am. What you write is an inspiration to me-above all else our faith in God is what matters-he knows what's best-but we have to remember that he gives us free will-and the choices your husband made will have to be accounted for-maybe not now-but definitely when he meets Jesus. That is the thought that helps me when I think of all the things my husband did to me. Please stay strong, and you are right nothing is ever wasted in God's eyes

Alece, I follow your posts as much as I can. They are awesome-you are awesome. I am experiencing a similar situation with my husband and it seems like you are going through the same emotions that I am. What you write is an inspiration to me-above all else our faith in God is what matters-he knows what's best-but we have to remember that he gives us free will-and the choices your husband made will have to be accounted for-maybe not now-but definitely when he meets Jesus. That is the thought that helps me when I think of all the things my husband did to me. Please stay strong, and you are right nothing is ever wasted in God's eyes

Alece- I'm thankful to have found your blog recently. Your story, which I would never wish upon anyone, is impacting so many around you. You're right- nothing's wasted. He's good like that.
My recent post I’m A Restoration Project: Lent (part nine)

Alece- I'm thankful to have found your blog recently. Your story, which I would never wish upon anyone, is impacting so many around you. You're right- nothing's wasted. He's good like that.
My recent post I’m A Restoration Project: Lent (part nine)

Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!!!! I, too, have had to learn this difference, yet I've always had such a difficult time articulating it. You nailed it, though. When we trust in what He can do, we limit our trust based on our own understanding of life. But when we trust in WHO HE IS…then we give Him the freedom to be the absolutely amazing God that He is!
My recent post Recognizing the little gifts…

Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!!!! I, too, have had to learn this difference, yet I've always had such a difficult time articulating it. You nailed it, though. When we trust in what He can do, we limit our trust based on our own understanding of life. But when we trust in WHO HE IS…then we give Him the freedom to be the absolutely amazing God that He is!
My recent post Recognizing the little gifts…

Alece, thank you for sharing in such a beautiful way. so much of this stood out to me, but there was this little tiny part that trailed at the end of a paragraph that settled deep within me… "He doesn't waste a thing." that very concept has gotten me through the challenging times that i just didn't understand. even with set backs, because of God, there is progress. it amazes me time and time again.

Alece, thank you for sharing in such a beautiful way. so much of this stood out to me, but there was this little tiny part that trailed at the end of a paragraph that settled deep within me… "He doesn't waste a thing." that very concept has gotten me through the challenging times that i just didn't understand. even with set backs, because of God, there is progress. it amazes me time and time again.

Alece, you da man. And yes he does make all thing new. I don't know how he does that, but yep.

Alece, you da man. And yes he does make all thing new. I don't know how he does that, but yep.

This, my friend, says it best:

"And trusting that what feels like Plan B (or maybe Plan F) is really His best for me."

I couldn't agree more Alece. Not necessarily 10 years ago, but definitely where I'm at in life today. I think all of us struggle seeing the true purpose in the pain. I know I do.

Great post and I'm glad to have connected with your blog recently through ReFineUs!
My recent post How Many Plates Are You Juggling?

This, my friend, says it best:

"And trusting that what feels like Plan B (or maybe Plan F) is really His best for me."

I couldn't agree more Alece. Not necessarily 10 years ago, but definitely where I'm at in life today. I think all of us struggle seeing the true purpose in the pain. I know I do.

Great post and I'm glad to have connected with your blog recently through ReFineUs!
My recent post How Many Plates Are You Juggling?

This, my friend, says it best:

"And trusting that what feels like Plan B (or maybe Plan F) is really His best for me."

I couldn't agree more Alece. Not necessarily 10 years ago, but definitely where I'm at in life today. I think all of us struggle seeing the true purpose in the pain. I know I do.

Great post and I'm glad to have connected with your blog recently through ReFineUs!
My recent post How Many Plates Are You Juggling?

This, my friend, says it best:

"And trusting that what feels like Plan B (or maybe Plan F) is really His best for me."

I couldn't agree more Alece. Not necessarily 10 years ago, but definitely where I'm at in life today. I think all of us struggle seeing the true purpose in the pain. I know I do.

Great post and I'm glad to have connected with your blog recently through ReFineUs!
My recent post How Many Plates Are You Juggling?

"Because the truth is, His character never changes. No matter what I’m experiencing in my life, God is loving, faithful, and trustworthy. He is just and merciful. He is Healer and Redeemer. And He doesn’t waste a thing."

I read this paragraph so many times over. mmmm…WOW…. woah…

It's amazing and inspiring how you made the Lowest part of your life… be the glorifying to GOD…. that makes me look at my own life and see if I could say that …
I love you bunches FF!!

My recent post Energy Drink and Leadership?

"Because the truth is, His character never changes. No matter what I’m experiencing in my life, God is loving, faithful, and trustworthy. He is just and merciful. He is Healer and Redeemer. And He doesn’t waste a thing."

I read this paragraph so many times over. mmmm…WOW…. woah…

It's amazing and inspiring how you made the Lowest part of your life… be the glorifying to GOD…. that makes me look at my own life and see if I could say that …
I love you bunches FF!!

My recent post Energy Drink and Leadership?

Ooops I left the "most" out.. "most glorifying to God.
My recent post Energy Drink and Leadership?

Ooops I left the "most" out.. "most glorifying to God.
My recent post Energy Drink and Leadership?

Sitting at the crossroads in life where it feels like God IS saving my marriage (according to a conversation last night with my husband) I am still feeling the pain of it all.

Thank you for having the courage to step out and share the pain that you are feeling – and the power of God in your life! You have been such an inspiration to me (and to many others I am sure) as we walk down the road of a broken marriage beside you.
My recent post I Should Be Happy

Sitting at the crossroads in life where it feels like God IS saving my marriage (according to a conversation last night with my husband) I am still feeling the pain of it all.

Thank you for having the courage to step out and share the pain that you are feeling – and the power of God in your life! You have been such an inspiration to me (and to many others I am sure) as we walk down the road of a broken marriage beside you.
My recent post I Should Be Happy

You are such a wonderful writer with such emotion. Thanks for sharing…I am sure you are reaching many with this ministry. You hold your head up high and open your eyes…that is where God will be. Hang in there, God's plan is perfect for He is perfect.

You are such a wonderful writer with such emotion. Thanks for sharing…I am sure you are reaching many with this ministry. You hold your head up high and open your eyes…that is where God will be. Hang in there, God's plan is perfect for He is perfect.

"nothing wasted" goes so well withe the mantra of you, "nothing missing nothing broken." He has not wasted anything about your story your whole life, even outside this chapter for broken marriage. He has been making life out of you from the get go. He is multiplying life through you so much. You brought your five fish and two loaves, and he is feeding so many through you, sweet friend.

"nothing wasted" goes so well withe the mantra of you, "nothing missing nothing broken." He has not wasted anything about your story your whole life, even outside this chapter for broken marriage. He has been making life out of you from the get go. He is multiplying life through you so much. You brought your five fish and two loaves, and he is feeding so many through you, sweet friend.

So …

… have you read my most recent post? It has to do with a similar message (at least to myself) in so many ways. I don't know if it will have meaning to you, or at least perhaps not as much as it did to me. But God let me in on a bit of His perspective on this. At least I think so. At any rate. If you have time, you might read my latest post I cried for the roses.

I so love the way you put this, too.

There’s a difference between faith in what God can do and faith in who God is.

So profoundly true.
My recent post I cried for the roses

So …

… have you read my most recent post? It has to do with a similar message (at least to myself) in so many ways. I don't know if it will have meaning to you, or at least perhaps not as much as it did to me. But God let me in on a bit of His perspective on this. At least I think so. At any rate. If you have time, you might read my latest post I cried for the roses.

I so love the way you put this, too.

There’s a difference between faith in what God can do and faith in who God is.

So profoundly true.
My recent post I cried for the roses

Alece, as always you have written a beautiful post that touches and encourages me. My pastor often says faith is not believing for something but believing in someone. It is about resting in God because He is deserving of our trust and our faith. Soooo much easier to say than do for sure. I love these words "The only way I can even think about making this shift is in moment-by-moment decisions of faith." I will be chewing on this and trying to remember this in those moments when it feels like my faith is failing me. Thank you for sharing your heart.

Alece, as always you have written a beautiful post that touches and encourages me. My pastor often says faith is not believing for something but believing in someone. It is about resting in God because He is deserving of our trust and our faith. Soooo much easier to say than do for sure. I love these words "The only way I can even think about making this shift is in moment-by-moment decisions of faith." I will be chewing on this and trying to remember this in those moments when it feels like my faith is failing me. Thank you for sharing your heart.

this is a hard pill to swallow…

I did a little study of Job with Larry last year because I was unhappy with the answers to 'all the hard theological questions'. I didn't like the answer 'God has a plan' to my 'Why me?' question. I didn't like the 'Have faith. He is good' answer to my 'Why do bad things happen' question. I wanted answers that would make me happy and not ones that challenged my heart. I had unknowingly subscribed to the 'health, wealth, happiness' gospel and was coming up empty. After reading Job and camping out in it for a while, I realized I needed to humble myself and realize that I don't see the big picture. God doesn't present His reasons to me because He is God and I need to trust Him. (Which ties in with that Mother Theresa story in 'Ruthless Trust'. Just sayin'). Those few weeks forced me to lay aside my desire for what I thought were the right answers to my situation and learn to accept hard truth.

I remember when I first heard someone say that God doesn't care if we are happy or not. I was pretty angry and immediately thought 'God loves me, of course He wants me to be happy.' And the more I've thought about it, the more I realize that God's best for us doesn't always involve a happy path. We must be refined by fire; our dark times can show us His faithfulness. Those are not always happy things…fire, darkness…but through them, fruits of joy, love, patience, kindness, etc. can grow.

I'm so thankful for your wisdom. For picking apart different thoughts and opening my mind's eye (and heart) to nuances I never thought of. Love you, Mer!
My recent post Practicing

I did a little study of Job with Larry last year because I was unhappy with the answers to 'all the hard theological questions'. I didn't like the answer 'God has a plan' to my 'Why me?' question. I didn't like the 'Have faith. He is good' answer to my 'Why do bad things happen' question. I wanted answers that would make me happy and not ones that challenged my heart. I had unknowingly subscribed to the 'health, wealth, happiness' gospel and was coming up empty. After reading Job and camping out in it for a while, I realized I needed to humble myself and realize that I don't see the big picture. God doesn't present His reasons to me because He is God and I need to trust Him. (Which ties in with that Mother Theresa story in 'Ruthless Trust'. Just sayin'). Those few weeks forced me to lay aside my desire for what I thought were the right answers to my situation and learn to accept hard truth.

I remember when I first heard someone say that God doesn't care if we are happy or not. I was pretty angry and immediately thought 'God loves me, of course He wants me to be happy.' And the more I've thought about it, the more I realize that God's best for us doesn't always involve a happy path. We must be refined by fire; our dark times can show us His faithfulness. Those are not always happy things…fire, darkness…but through them, fruits of joy, love, patience, kindness, etc. can grow.

I'm so thankful for your wisdom. For picking apart different thoughts and opening my mind's eye (and heart) to nuances I never thought of. Love you, Mer!
My recent post Practicing

this is a hard pill to swallow…

Classic!

Classic!

Joanne…just wanted you to know that you are in our prayers.

Joanne…just wanted you to know that you are in our prayers.

Just want you to know that we are praying for you and the journey that you are on. Please let us know if we can serve you in any way!

Just want you to know that we are praying for you and the journey that you are on. Please let us know if we can serve you in any way!

Alece…I am so thankful that you shared your heart with us today. I was your husband. I know the pain that I put Trisha through, and the destruction I caused so many. While I've never experienced the pain that you have, I know what it feels like to cause it. To see how God has used your life and your story to give hope to others that are in their Plan B, inspires me. I am thankful for a grace that is big enough to rescue me, and a grace that is big enough to redeem your hurt and your pain to bring God glory.

Alece…I am so thankful that you shared your heart with us today. I was your husband. I know the pain that I put Trisha through, and the destruction I caused so many. While I've never experienced the pain that you have, I know what it feels like to cause it. To see how God has used your life and your story to give hope to others that are in their Plan B, inspires me. I am thankful for a grace that is big enough to rescue me, and a grace that is big enough to redeem your hurt and your pain to bring God glory.

i had to come back and read your comment again, trish. there is so much in there.

first – i'm so sorry that you felt guilt over how differently our stories panned out. please don't. in all honesty, i don't look at your marriage and begrudge you for what "should have been mine". i look at you and rejoice with you at God's redemption. He is faithful. in both of our lives, and in very different ways, He is faithful.

i totally understand what you're saying about a mindset of "because God CAN, He WILL". my faith-focused background developed a bit of an entitlement spirituality in me. and it is so wrong.

hearing that you apologized to so many for holding "holding them hostage to make plan B return to plan A" – man, i've been thinking about that statement all day. i think i've done that, and may be doing that still… i'm asking Him to show me where i need to apologize and make that right…
My recent post death and life

i had to come back and read your comment again, trish. there is so much in there.

first – i'm so sorry that you felt guilt over how differently our stories panned out. please don't. in all honesty, i don't look at your marriage and begrudge you for what "should have been mine". i look at you and rejoice with you at God's redemption. He is faithful. in both of our lives, and in very different ways, He is faithful.

i totally understand what you're saying about a mindset of "because God CAN, He WILL". my faith-focused background developed a bit of an entitlement spirituality in me. and it is so wrong.

hearing that you apologized to so many for holding "holding them hostage to make plan B return to plan A" – man, i've been thinking about that statement all day. i think i've done that, and may be doing that still… i'm asking Him to show me where i need to apologize and make that right…
My recent post death and life

thank you for reading my heart, erin!
My recent post death and life

thank you for reading my heart, erin!
My recent post death and life

that passage in jeremiah 32 — "I will assuredly plant them in this land with all My heart and soul" — man oh man… that's so mind-blowing to me. thank you, mel!
My recent post death and life

that passage in jeremiah 32 — "I will assuredly plant them in this land with all My heart and soul" — man oh man… that's so mind-blowing to me. thank you, mel!
My recent post death and life

it's incredible that you've been able to see how your pain has brought life to others. i'm always amazed when I see God making life out of my brokenness… can't help but think of those loaves and fishes: it was only when Jesus broke them that they were able to fed the masses…
My recent post death and life

thank you sweet jenni!
My recent post death and life

it's incredible that you've been able to see how your pain has brought life to others. i'm always amazed when I see God making life out of my brokenness… can't help but think of those loaves and fishes: it was only when Jesus broke them that they were able to fed the masses…
My recent post death and life

thank you sweet jenni!
My recent post death and life

i'm so thankful as well. there are so many pieces of my life — of me — that feel like a waste. i cling to that truth that He doesn't waste a thing, that He can redeem even this…
My recent post death and life

i'm so thankful as well. there are so many pieces of my life — of me — that feel like a waste. i cling to that truth that He doesn't waste a thing, that He can redeem even this…
My recent post death and life

wow, miss trish. thank you. i am so grateful for your prayers. SO grateful.
My recent post death and life

wow, miss trish. thank you. i am so grateful for your prayers. SO grateful.
My recent post death and life

you are so sweet to me, chrissy.

as always.

thank you!
My recent post death and life

gotta be honest. i heard your comment in yoda's voice too.

for the encouragement, i thank you!

My recent post death and life

gotta be honest. i heard your comment in yoda's voice too.

for the encouragement, i thank you!

My recent post death and life

you are so sweet to me, chrissy.

as always.

thank you!
My recent post death and life

i often have to remind myself:

seek God's face and not His hand.

it's so easy to do the opposite.

love you, jennygirl!
My recent post death and life

i often have to remind myself:

seek God's face and not His hand.

it's so easy to do the opposite.

love you, jennygirl!
My recent post death and life

wow, jeremy. thank you.
My recent post death and life

wow, jeremy. thank you.
My recent post death and life

you're so right, spence. my view of God is continuously changing. not because He is, but because i am.

thank you for your heart-filled words. means a lot.
My recent post death and life

you're so right, spence. my view of God is continuously changing. not because He is, but because i am.

thank you for your heart-filled words. means a lot.
My recent post death and life

so glad to hear that it was an encouragement to you, grant. and i hope to meet you when i'm in nashvegas in a couple weeks!
My recent post death and life

so glad to hear that it was an encouragement to you, grant. and i hope to meet you when i'm in nashvegas in a couple weeks!
My recent post death and life

so glad to hear that it was an encouragement to you, grant. and i hope to meet you when i'm in nashvegas in a couple weeks!
My recent post death and life

so glad to hear that it was an encouragement to you, grant. and i hope to meet you when i'm in nashvegas in a couple weeks!
My recent post death and life

joanne, my heart aches to hear what you are going through. know that i will be praying for you to stay anchored in Him, no matter what this storm may bring… thank you for your comment. i am really grateful you spoke up.
My recent post death and life

joanne, my heart aches to hear what you are going through. know that i will be praying for you to stay anchored in Him, no matter what this storm may bring… thank you for your comment. i am really grateful you spoke up.
My recent post death and life

He is so good like that. and so…upside-down. using our foolishness to confound the wise and being the strongest in our weakest…

thank you for your strengthening words, josh.
My recent post death and life

amen! you've got your preach on, girl!
My recent post death and life

He is so good like that. and so…upside-down. using our foolishness to confound the wise and being the strongest in our weakest…

thank you for your strengthening words, josh.
My recent post death and life

amen! you've got your preach on, girl!
My recent post death and life

it amazes me too, JK. absolutely amazes me.

you're on my heart tonight. i'm asking Him told you tightly…
My recent post death and life

it amazes me too, JK. absolutely amazes me.

you're on my heart tonight. i'm asking Him told you tightly…
My recent post death and life

hahaha! thanks, ric!
My recent post death and life

hahaha! thanks, ric!
My recent post death and life

i know i'll see it clearer with hindsight (especially the eternal kind), but i want to get better at trusting Him for it even when i can't see it right in the midst of the mess.

even in MY "all things", He's got my good and His glory in mind. i don't want to lose sight of that.
My recent post death and life

i know i'll see it clearer with hindsight (especially the eternal kind), but i want to get better at trusting Him for it even when i can't see it right in the midst of the mess.

even in MY "all things", He's got my good and His glory in mind. i don't want to lose sight of that.
My recent post death and life

you are such a strength to me, fierce friend. thank you for your love and prayers that have carried (and are STILL carrying!) me through this difficult season.

you are such a strength to me, fierce friend. thank you for your love and prayers that have carried (and are STILL carrying!) me through this difficult season.

my heart is heavy with and for yours tonight. jennifer. i know there is deep pain there for you, and much that needs to be restored. i'm asking the Lord to hold you tonight as you cling to hope. let me know if you ever want to talk…

my heart is heavy with and for yours tonight. jennifer. i know there is deep pain there for you, and much that needs to be restored. i'm asking the Lord to hold you tonight as you cling to hope. let me know if you ever want to talk…

wow, mary. thank you. really… thank you.

wow, mary. thank you. really… thank you.

mmmm…. i've never tied the two together like that before. you're so right. nothing missing. nothing broken. nothing wasted. wow.

i am so grateful for all the ways He is making life out of my brokenness. and i pray that it never ceases to amaze me.

thank you for the richness of your friendship in my life, tre. i love you.

mmmm…. i've never tied the two together like that before. you're so right. nothing missing. nothing broken. nothing wasted. wow.

i am so grateful for all the ways He is making life out of my brokenness. and i pray that it never ceases to amaze me.

thank you for the richness of your friendship in my life, tre. i love you.

your post was beautiful, anneth. such a poignant reminder of how God aches over my hurt just as He aches over the one who's hurt me…

your post was beautiful, anneth. such a poignant reminder of how God aches over my hurt just as He aches over the one who's hurt me…

my faith fails me more often than not. it is then i need to remember that His grace is enough.

like today.

sigh…

thank you for your beautiful sweet spirit, makeda. i'm blessed to call you friend.

my faith fails me more often than not. it is then i need to remember that His grace is enough.

like today.

sigh…

thank you for your beautiful sweet spirit, makeda. i'm blessed to call you friend.

for me, too…

loved hearing your heart's journey through this, little grey. i am glad we are on this path together, and i'm grateful for your friendship.

(and i still haven't moved past chapter one in "ruthless trust". this weekend might be the time to try again…)

loved hearing your heart's journey through this, little grey. i am glad we are on this path together, and i'm grateful for your friendship.

(and i still haven't moved past chapter one in "ruthless trust". this weekend might be the time to try again…)

for me, too…

justin, thank you for inviting me to share my heart here — i don't take that lightly at all.

and what you said at the end there is rattling around in my brain… that the grace that can redeem my hurt is the same grace that can rescue my husband. thank you for the reminder to pray for him again tonight… which seems especially timely as we head into good friday. Jesus hung on that cross to carry both the sins of others that hurt me deeply and, in that same instant, the pain and sorrow i feel because of those sins. in the very same moment, He held both. wept for both. bore the eternal burden of both. so that both of us could be free.

may i never forget that…

justin, thank you for inviting me to share my heart here — i don't take that lightly at all.

and what you said at the end there is rattling around in my brain… that the grace that can redeem my hurt is the same grace that can rescue my husband. thank you for the reminder to pray for him again tonight… which seems especially timely as we head into good friday. Jesus hung on that cross to carry both the sins of others that hurt me deeply and, in that same instant, the pain and sorrow i feel because of those sins. in the very same moment, He held both. wept for both. bore the eternal burden of both. so that both of us could be free.

may i never forget that…

Alece,

Thank you for this message. For so long I struggled with the idea (and still do at times) that "what God can do and what He was doing didn’t line up." I argued with God yelling the "why?" questions: "why can't you?" "Why didn't you?" Etc. And when things didn't change, I questioned His motives, and His character.

But it all rests on the one statement you made: "There’s a difference between faith in what God can do and faith in who God is."

He doesn't change.
We do.

Life from His eternal perspective has to be much different than life from our temporal perspective.

Regardless of the struggles and brokenness, "nothing is ever wasted".

Thank you Alece. Your faith and trust in God through the hard times is an inspiration.
Will continue to be praying for you girl. *hugs*

Alece,

Thank you for this message. For so long I struggled with the idea (and still do at times) that "what God can do and what He was doing didn’t line up." I argued with God yelling the "why?" questions: "why can't you?" "Why didn't you?" Etc. And when things didn't change, I questioned His motives, and His character.

But it all rests on the one statement you made: "There’s a difference between faith in what God can do and faith in who God is."

He doesn't change.
We do.

Life from His eternal perspective has to be much different than life from our temporal perspective.

Regardless of the struggles and brokenness, "nothing is ever wasted".

Thank you Alece. Your faith and trust in God through the hard times is an inspiration.
Will continue to be praying for you girl. *hugs*

RT @anidolheart: RT @justindavis33 If you have ever questioned why God hasn't shown up in a way you thought He should, read this: http://bit.ly/d1ypkR

Alece,
A friend directed me to your post and as I read, it became obvious why. Thank you for sharing your heart so openly, boldly and with the direction of the Holy Spirit! I followed the link to your blog and when I read the nutshell version of your story, I was blown away. Our stories have so many similarities! I wish they didn’t – for both of our sake – but they do.

I, too, never thought that divorce would be in my story. I also KNEW that God was more than able to save my marriage and use our redemption story like He has for others who were willing. We have to choose to follow God’s plan A, though.

I am now two years into the grieving process because those choices were not made. I still struggle, but I know now better than I ever have how faithful God is to His children. He is on record for loving us and Easter time is a perfect reminder of how much! God asks me to do “the next right thing” and He promises to use me because of my circumstances that lead to a broken heart. He is using you, too! And though your mind probably knows that you are being used by God, I pray that your heart feels valuable today to the God of the Universe.

Alece,
A friend directed me to your post and as I read, it became obvious why. Thank you for sharing your heart so openly, boldly and with the direction of the Holy Spirit! I followed the link to your blog and when I read the nutshell version of your story, I was blown away. Our stories have so many similarities! I wish they didn’t – for both of our sake – but they do.

I, too, never thought that divorce would be in my story. I also KNEW that God was more than able to save my marriage and use our redemption story like He has for others who were willing. We have to choose to follow God’s plan A, though.

I am now two years into the grieving process because those choices were not made. I still struggle, but I know now better than I ever have how faithful God is to His children. He is on record for loving us and Easter time is a perfect reminder of how much! God asks me to do “the next right thing” and He promises to use me because of my circumstances that lead to a broken heart. He is using you, too! And though your mind probably knows that you are being used by God, I pray that your heart feels valuable today to the God of the Universe.

God cares more about making me holy than keeping me happy. Thoughts on faith in the key of plan b – http://j.mp/dusVUt

God is more concerned with our holiness than our happiness. a blog by @ThriveAfrica's founder: http://is.gd/baN50 #ImpactSA

God is more concerned with our holiness than our happiness. a blog by @ThriveAfrica's founder: http://is.gd/baN50 #ImpactSA

Alece…..

*Tears*…. confession and validation are so healing. Thank you for validating my heart! Thank you for your healing words! I'm amazed at how God has brought people and their stories into my life not only to unearth my own brokenness but also give life long friendships! Thank you for being one of those people! You are precious to me!!

Alece…..

*Tears*…. confession and validation are so healing. Thank you for validating my heart! Thank you for your healing words! I'm amazed at how God has brought people and their stories into my life not only to unearth my own brokenness but also give life long friendships! Thank you for being one of those people! You are precious to me!!

Alece, thank you for sharing this… indeed, we can always plan for the future but we never really know what will happen in God's perfect plan, and His time. I'm reading Mark Betterson's book "In a pit with a lion on a snowy day" right now, and it sounds like you've been there… me too! To me it's become all about being content and thankful whatever the circumstances, knowing that whatever God has in store is more awesome than I can possibly imagine… "because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us." – Romans 5:3-5… and I can see that it is very much working out just that way!

My recent post Got the Message

Alece, thank you for sharing this… indeed, we can always plan for the future but we never really know what will happen in God's perfect plan, and His time. I'm reading Mark Betterson's book "In a pit with a lion on a snowy day" right now, and it sounds like you've been there… me too! To me it's become all about being content and thankful whatever the circumstances, knowing that whatever God has in store is more awesome than I can possibly imagine… "because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us." – Romans 5:3-5… and I can see that it is very much working out just that way!

My recent post Got the Message

i so quickly (and easily) look to His hand before i look to His face. sigh…

thank you for your prayers, randi. means a lot!
My recent post death and life

i so quickly (and easily) look to His hand before i look to His face. sigh…

thank you for your prayers, randi. means a lot!
My recent post death and life

i'm so glad to hear from you, cile. so glad. i hate that you can relate to my story and heartache, but really appreciate the reminder that i'm not alone on this journey. thank you for holding out hope of God's perfect Plan A.

i'm thinking holidays may still be hard for you as well, and i'm praying that you'd feel Him holding you closely this weekend.
My recent post death and life

i'm so glad to hear from you, cile. so glad. i hate that you can relate to my story and heartache, but really appreciate the reminder that i'm not alone on this journey. thank you for holding out hope of God's perfect Plan A.

i'm thinking holidays may still be hard for you as well, and i'm praying that you'd feel Him holding you closely this weekend.
My recent post death and life

i've been wanting to read mark's book — i think it will really speak into my situation. thanks for that reminder!
My recent post death and life

i've been wanting to read mark's book — i think it will really speak into my situation. thanks for that reminder!
My recent post death and life

i've been wanting to read mark's book — i think it will really speak into my situation. thanks for that reminder!
My recent post death and life

i've been wanting to read mark's book — i think it will really speak into my situation. thanks for that reminder!
My recent post death and life

RT @gritandglory God cares more about making me holy than keeping me happy. Thoughts on faith in the key of plan b – http://j.mp/dusVUt

"God is more concerned about my holiness than my happiness." – a guest post by @ThriveAfrica's founder: http://is.gd/baN50

RT @impactsa: "God is more concerned about my holiness than my happiness." – a guest post by @ThriveAfrica's founder: http://is.gd/baN50

RT @impactsa: "God is more concerned about my holiness than my happiness." – a guest post by @ThriveAfrica's founder: http://is.gd/baN50

I love the part about God not wasting anything. That is such great insight. Thanks for sharing.
My recent post Good Friday

I love the part about God not wasting anything. That is such great insight. Thanks for sharing.
My recent post Good Friday

i've been clinging to that hope, to that truth: He never wastes a hurt.
My recent post silent saturday

i've been clinging to that hope, to that truth: He never wastes a hurt.
My recent post silent saturday

Alece and Trisha, both of your comments really challenged me. Thank you! Trisha, you probably had no idea when you began writing Alece how profound your words would be. I, too, have been holding myself, others, and God hostage waiting for Him to do what I know He can do. Yet another level of surrender is in my future. Thank you, girls, for changing and challenging me.

Alece and Trisha, both of your comments really challenged me. Thank you! Trisha, you probably had no idea when you began writing Alece how profound your words would be. I, too, have been holding myself, others, and God hostage waiting for Him to do what I know He can do. Yet another level of surrender is in my future. Thank you, girls, for changing and challenging me.

love you, nikki!
My recent post i’ll be here for a while still

love you, nikki!
My recent post i’ll be here for a while still