I CHOOSE to be JOYFUL

TODAY'S VERSE Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. I Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT) 

I get a daily devotional sent to my email every week day. As I mentioned I have been in kind of a slump lately and this verse just really spoke to me. So I thought I would share it with all of you. 

I try to be a fairly positive individual and look for the good side of things. And this verse got me thinking.  While we do not know what Gods plan is for our lives he gives us glimpses and answers (if we just listen!). I came to the realization this morning and was able to make a little bit of sense from the 4 miscarriages I have experienced the past 3 years. 

One year ago, last January I had my third miscarriage - second ectopic pregnancy. Today I am almost thankful for that because the thought of having an 8 month old and a 4 month old right now is a little overwhelming. I mean it would be wonderful but totally crazy busy and sleepless at the same time. 

Just this past September I had my fourth miscarriage. This one was devastating because it was the first time I actually felt pregnant and had early symptoms. Upon reflection and then getting the most fantastic Christmas present from my dad (a 14 day trip to Scotland and Ireland eek!!) it would not be possible with a 13 month old and a 1 month old baby cuz that's how old #4 would be if the pregnancy didn't fail. 

To some these might be very materialistic things but it's my life and you have to look for silver lining. For me I have to try to make some sort of sense of my circumstances. To help me cope or give a "reason" for my miscarriages. 

Infertility sucks, Period. There's no way around it.  I think it's healthy though to look for the good in situations and The Bible tells us that in the verse above. Be joyful, keep praying and be thankful.

It's hard to be thankful in all the circumstances and situations that we find ourselves in a daily basis.  But I believe through prayer and faith God intends great things for us. I choose to be joyful. Satan cannot take that away from me.

-Ashley