Three Decades

A lot can happen in three decades. Many things have changed since 1980. Many people I loved have ended their lives on earth in the past three decades. Many little ones have been born into the family. What will the next three bring? Only our Lord knows.

This past week I officially turned thirty. While I am not loving the thought of such a 'old' number, it has given me much to think on. My thoughts have been drawn to all the Lord has allowed into my life, taken away from my life and has sustained me through. Tough times and wonderful times. School days...my church in NJ....college....several car accidents....health scares with ones I love...our wedding...our two beautiful daughters....my Pop getting so sick but ultimately getting saved and going to heaven...buying our home.....

Only the Lord and I know every detail of every day of my thirty years thus far. Every emotion I have ever felt. Every time I have cried or laughed. It is just amazing to me, to sit and think of all this.

Recently I heard a sermon based on Job 1:21b "the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." It was a powerful message and spoke to my heart. And in these thirty years of my life, the LORD has both given and taken away. I thank Him for his provision and love to me. For being my rock, my joy, my strength and peace through all I have been through in my short time thus far on earth.

Deuteronomy 31:8 is my 'favorite' verse. (Like you can pick just one!) It says.... And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

So turning thirty has been a reflective time for me. It's been good to sit back and recount how the Lord has led me along. I don't know who will read this or who will even care to, but I wanted to share this and hopefully remind others to sit and think about all the Lord has brought them through. Find a spot alone today and do it. He alone deserves all the glory and praise!