Finding Life After The Death Of A Dream
BY BENNETT ROLAN, BSF DIGITAL EDITOR
At a glance, Hoa Luu recognized the doctor’s office phone number. For a moment she paused, suppressing the familiar longing and excitement. But minutes into the call, she knew the truth. Her pregnancy results were negative once again. Hoa felt numb. How long could she endure the endless cycle procedures and tests? And what if she never had a baby?
Surrender In Sadness
Married in her early 20’s, Hoa and her husband, David, pursued careers, traveled frequently and grew steadily in their faith. But as they considered starting a family, nothing happened. After countless doctors’ appointments, specialists and treatments, the prognosis stayed the same. Through years of disappointed hopes, Hoa was exhausted.
“There was just extreme sadness. I was distraught over learning that I wasn’t pregnant. I could feel myself becoming bitter and angry, turning pregnancy into an idol,” Hoa shared. “What really helped me was talking to other women who were older, who didn’t have children. Knowing that I wasn’t alone was so helpful.”
In the midst of her struggle between longing for a baby and leaning on the Lord, Hoa joined the staff at BSF Headquarters. There, she found wisdom in a much-needed friend.
“When I wasn’t really looking for anyone, God dropped Gwen into my life,” she said.
Hoa and her husband, David
Like Hoa, Gwen Cruzan struggled through the highs and lows of infertility. Some years older than Hoa, Gwen provided hope that joy in the Lord runs deeper than the death of a dream.
“I often think about 1 Timothy 6:6, ‘Godliness with contentment is great gain,’” Gwen said. “Sometimes we can become so focused on the things we want, that we don’t see the things we have. The Lord is the only one who could have provided that contentment. But I had to find a place of total surrender to His perfect will for my life. That doesn’t mean it’s easy, but God’s will is perfect, with or without children.”
Together, Hoa and Gwen have laughed, cried, prayed and hoped. They’ve built a deep friendship fueled by the need to remain fixed on the Lord in joy and sorrow.
“Instead of focusing on anger or bitter regrets,” Hoa shared, “God opened my eyes to be content with what He has placed before me. I pray for excitement for whatever God has planned. And surely it’s better than what I could create on my own.”
Sometimes we can become so focused on the things we want, that we don’t see the things we have.
For both women, the grief of infertility and the struggle for contentment is ongoing. Holidays like Mother’s Day or well-meaning comments can open wounds that God is still healing.
“There are times when it’s more difficult than others. It is a little bit of a roller coaster when you see the nieces and nephews you helped to raise having children,” Gwen shared. “Asking God ‘Why?’ is natural. But we may never fully understand the intricacies of God’s plan, because it’s never about us. It is about Him and what He desires to do through us for His glory. I think if I had let my devastation keep me from being around children, I would have missed God’s blessing through relationships with young people in our church and children in the BSF school program. For me, contentment is something God has given over time.”
A Commitment to Contentment
Though we may not struggle with infertility, we can relate to the deep disappointment of living in a fallen world. Our hopes for the future are often sidetracked and our carefully laid plans can fall apart in an instant. When we experience the death of a dream, the loss often threatens to pull our eyes from Christ.
Too often, we’re tempted to make our own path. We set our goals without pausing to reflect on God’s purpose in our disappointment or in the future He sets before us. God will lead some to adopt or care for a foster child, while others will prayerfully pursue medical solutions to solve infertility issues. Some couples will enjoy a life apart from children, seeking ways to serve as a family. Wherever He leads, God faithfully walks with His children, drawing us into deeper relationship with Him.
“You have to look internally at what is happening in your heart,” Hoa said. “Where is your desire? If your desire is for God, He will provide the contentment and guide those next steps.”
In studying Genesis, Hoa’s compassion for Sarah was magnified as she read about a woman who struggled to believe God’s promise.
Gwen and her husband, Russell
In Genesis 21, we see the contrast of God’s blessing through Isaac’s birth and the destructive results of Sarah’s earlier interference. Though waiting on God’s promises and welcoming His plan can be painful, Gwen and Hoa both testify that He alone satisfies our unfulfilled longings.
“Reflecting on our lesson in Genesis with the story of Sarah, Abraham and Hagar, I am comforted in knowing that our God is a God who sees us. He is the God that hears us, and He is the God who truly loves us best and knows what’s best for us. He has His perfect timing in blessing us,” Gwen shared. “Look to the Lord to encourage your heart through His Word and His people. Continue to serve Him. It’s easier to sit in God’s waiting room when you’re busy with your hands. Through Psalm 27:13-14, I can say:
‘I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.’”
I like this post, enjoyed this one thanks for putting up. “To affect the quality of the day that is the art of life.” by Henry David Thoreau.
I have to thank you for the efforts you have put in penning this website. I am hoping to check out the same high-grade blog posts by you in the future as well. In truth, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own blog now 😉
Hello there! This blog post could not be written much better! Reading through this article reminds me of my previous roommate! He continually kept preaching about this. I will send this article to him. Pretty sure he’ll have a great read. I appreciate you for sharing!
Can I simply just say what a relief to discover someone who really knows what they are talking about on the internet. You actually know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More and more people need to look at this and understand this side of the story. I can’t believe you aren’t more popular given that you certainly have the gift.
This is a topic that’s close to my heart… Cheers! Where are your contact details though?
I wanted to thank you for this fantastic read!! I definitely enjoyed every little bit of it. I have got you bookmarked to look at new stuff you postÖ
Your style is very unique compared to other folks I’ve read stuff from. Thank you for posting when you have the opportunity, Guess I will just bookmark this web site.
Thank you for sharing your story. My daughter lost two baby boys. It was heartbreaking, but God blessed her with three beautiful healthy children. We grieved over the the lost of the two boys for years, but have since moved on and have accepted God’s plan and will for our lives. He knows what is best and we trust Him with all of our heart. Yes, we live in a fallen world and need to be grateful for the things we do have and not look at the things we don’t have. There will always be unanswered questions of “why?” We don’t ask that anymore. Your story reminds us of God’s grace and mercy and never to look back. We are learning to look forward for what God has for us. Enjoying today. Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
VERY encouraging, Oh lord God help to be busy meditating as I wait upon you
What a beautiful example of God’s goodness and the lasting faithfulness of these two ladies. Thanks for sharing your stories because they serve to encourage us and remind us that God’s plan are greater than our human plans. Though we may not understand them from this side of heaven, your testimonies serve to remind us that God is in control and directs us one step at a time. Thanks.
Beautifully shared. We do need to wait on the Lord with a joyful heart. God doesn’t give us anything we can’t handle as long as we call out to Him to guide us.
I so enjoyed this post. I, too, am like Hoa and Gwen, but I suffered alone. I got married young (21). I remember crying so many tears over not having a child. Whether it was having my own or by adoption (I was denied because of health reasons; they were strict in those days). I would avoid going to church on Mother’s and Father’s Day because it hurt too bad. Then I came to terms with it when I had my hysterectomy in my late thirty’s. As my fellowship with the Lord matured, I did see other blessings. This BSF lesson has even helped bring me closer to the Lord and really understand that He is my first love!
I was struggling with infertility the first year I enrolled in BSF and the Lord HEALED me and I conceived. Another class member was also struggling with infertility and when she knew I was pregnant, very graciously told me that she was happy for me. A few weeks later she became pregnant also!
A very gift of a blog at the perfect time in my life. I just lost my husband of 37 years of marriage. My husband died even as we were making plans about our immediate future. I know about God s love and sovereignty,about God s character of Grace and favour. I know the goodness of God. Yet loosing my husband hurts deeply. Thank God for BSF. My husband and I served in bsf for many years. He died while still attending classes. That he accepted God as God in Christ gives me comfort and hope of healing in God s amazing ways. I must be contend even in hurting for God is in charge.
Miriam, your faith and heart for the Lord are so evident. Praying for you, dear sister.
Miriam,
When I lost my beloved husband it was so devastating I did not want to go in without him. I asked the Lord to take me home. He told me it was a selfish request. My children needed me. He had more for me to do. I thought I could never smile or laugh again and one day it happened. I trusted GOD through it all – my broken heart, grief, abandonment, sadness, and shame. HE restored my soul! I now understand that out of death ALWAYS comes life. I have new life; it is fulfilling and blissful because of GOD’S presence and power in that emptiness I felt in that season. It is well with my soul. You can begin again?
Beautiful Story. Thanks for sharing
Thank you for sharing your stories, Hao and Gwen.
Thank you for sharing. Infertility is such a common problem nowadays. I am one of them. The death of our dream is not an easy path. There was time we almost doubting God’s existence or did He loved us. But as we hang on to God and continue to wait upon Him. God is faithful. He opened the door for adoption for us. Something that we never thought of doing it.
Fast forward… We will pick up our adopted son in 4 weeks. Praise God. Is not what we expected but it is beautiful and amazing. Everyone is so happy for us. We are so joyful as well. After all th me years of waiting. We can really say God is sovereign and He is faithful. Praise the Lord.
Now we met so many friends that who also adopted. Is a beautiful circle of friends God blessed us.
very touching testimony. May god forgive my uncontentment and the spirit of not being satisfied. May the Lord help me to see what He has given me and be grateful than always to long for what I do not have.
I was happy when I read Psalm 27:13-14 and to see how Gwen and Russell have hope tp see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
I will remember you Hoa and David, and Gwen and Russell in my prayers because I know and trust that God is at work even when we have not yet experienced a miracle.
Thank you for your testimony, may God bless you and give you the desires of your heart(s).
Deborah.
My husband and I struggled with infertility for 9 years before finally adopting our beautiful daughter, who is now 31 and has a 3 year old son. Three and a half years after she was born, when I was 41 years old, I gave birth to her little brother! He was quite a surprise since I shouldn’t have been able to conceive. He is now 28 years old and I just found out that he and his wife have been trying to get pregnant for a year. She is having a much harder time with their struggles. I think he can be strong for her because he knows our story so well. I was in leadership in BSF during those long years of tests, procedures, failures, and heartbreaks. It was then that God slowly grew my faith in His Word. I now have rock solid faith in God’s Word and in His promises and it came from being in His Word every week and learning together with others about His faithfulness. I wish I had time to tell the whole story because God knew what He was doing from the beginning, but I can say that looking back I can see His plan was perfect.God bless any who are going through this difficult time. Stay in His Word every day and trust that his plan for your life is perfect. To God be the glory!
Thank you so much for a thoughtful and very thought provoking story. It blessed me, not to hear that “everything worked out as we had planned”, but that everything worked out in spite of our plans”.
I don’t want to cheapen my note by merely saying “God is good / God is perfect” — that would belittle the hurt and the pain these young women endured. Yet, there is a goodness in their stories that can’t be denied.
Thank you so much for sharing ❤️.
Wonderful story. This encourages me to focus on God in my infertility. I have waited for a promotion at my work place for more than 5 years now. Each year comes and goes with empty promises from my supervisors. I have prayed and patiently waited on God albeit a few times of questioning. With the 2019 Covid pandemic and now this story I repent for focusing on what I don’t have instead of focus on what I have. I have a job that pays my mortgage and meets my basic needs. Instead of idolizing my need for promotion I will wait on the Lord and praise Him for what He has already provided.
Thank you for sharing this message and reminder of contentment and patience and loss. I am encouraged by your testimony, for it gives me hope.
May God Bless You.
Thank you for sharing ❤️
What a beautiful beautiful blog
Thanks for this sharing. In March this 2021year I’ll be six years old in BSF’s fraternity of believers. And I hope to continue in seeking God in all ways possible. Unfortunately hustle and bustle of today’s life are embedded in daily living and the technology age leaves a lots to be desirable Nonetheless I trust God will make way,where there seem to be no way.To God be glory forevermore. Amen.
Such a beautiful story Hoa. I was blessed to have children, but my amazing husband was taken home to heaven when he was just 63. The death of our dreams to retire, travel and spend all our time together were gone. Your testimony has touched my heart in a way that I can relate. Thank you so much for sharing. God bless you!
It is easier to wait on the Lord when you stay in His word & work! I have found this true during this strange year! I pray things come back around! I know he is still walking with me but I cry out to him to stay with us!
Thank you for sharing your testimony….and reminding” Godliness with contentment is the biggest gain”…we all have various areas of unfulfilled dreams but the truth is we or I need to die to my dreams and His ways alone be perfected…great thought for the day.
WOW> did that hit home. took me a while to get to it. With me it is a29 year marriage that turned out to be a great disappointment. Tim 6.6 has been an anchor scripture to me. Knowing that God’s grace is sufficient has been a great help. but reading the stories of others who have had to deal with unfulfilled dreams like David and Hoa reminds me I’m not alone, God’s with me, and I have brothers and sisters in the faith I can identify with.
Thank you for sharing your story on being contentment. I really enjoyed it. I know that I need to be more contented with things that I have and enjoy what I do have. The Lord bless you.
Bennett,
Thank you for sharing this wonderful story and the honest testimonies of Hoa and Gwen.
The scripture references are such a great reminder of the unconditional love given by our Father God, in ALL circumstances.
Patience is such a tough characteristic to hold onto in our earthly lives. Yet, God reassures us through the holy spirit of His presence.
Waiting is a challenge when we try it on our own.
When our eyes are drawn away from the Father, it creates peace and joy knowing He never takes His eyes off of us. Perfect vision.
I appreciate your BLOG.❤
Thank you for this story of extreme disappointment, of loss, and of God’s tender care. This is a testimony not often spoken by women like us, who would have loved to have experienced this true blessing God gives. Our God knows how and when to put salve on the open wound in our hearts and then He alone dries our eyes and (in my case) gives us what we need so badly, motherhood. Adoption is such a blessing for not only myself, but in the life/lives of God’s little ones who desperately need love and a home. My husband and I adopted two brothers and they became my life in Christ. Do you know what happened? My youngest son succumbed to Leukemia and passed away when he was 14, after 8 years of heart wrenching struggle in our home. But I GIVE GOD THE GLORY FOR WHAT HE ALLOWS! Ups and downs in life are inevitable, But God NEVER leaves us NOR forsakes us! I love Him and he has given me another beautiful son who is now a father, a husband and provider. TO GOD BE THE GLORY FOR THE THINGS HE HAS DONE!!!
Thank you Hoa & David, for the courage to share your story. It has deeply touched me and was timely. As I like others below, miscarried the only child I conceived. It was years ago and though I was saved, I was a secular Christian and didn’t have an intimate relationship with God. Many years later, I turned my life over to Him completely, walking away from a long term, immoral relationship with a man with children. Once desperately wanting a husband of faith & children of my own, Christ has led me to a place of great contentment in Him and Him alone. He is the love I had been looking for. And, even though still very painful to go through Mother’s Day and Christmas, watching my siblings w/families, I can no count myself the most blessed, I am the one who is eternally blessed. It was a long tearful road, but like David’s words say, “I remain (ed) confident in this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” And, I have.
Gwen and Hoa, thank you for sharing your life experiences. May the Lord fulfil the desires of your heart in His time. What a timely reminder to stay focused on God through difficult circumstances. Its never easy but our God is faithful
Thanks for the inspirational message. I am going through a very difficult time and this just reassured me that Gods plans are better then our plans Amen. Thanks for sharing your story and giving me hope again.
Dear Jane, praying for you. Your heart for Jesus is evident!
This story is
Helpful and encouraging!
My husband and had a beautiful child and enjoyed her so much for the first 25 years, Then she said “Good-bye” and we haven’t heard from her since then. It has been almost two years .
We need to trust her and us into The Lords able arms.
Dear Lily, praying for you, your husband and your daughter. Am encouraged by your heart to trust and desire to seek Him through this time
Am truly encouraged by this story. I am a first born girl in my family. A single parent of an adult son and daughter. While all my siblings have grand children, I have none. I was praying for my son to get married and God answered in 2019. Am now praying for a grandchild. Am encouraged. God will answer at His appointed time. Thanks
I have learned through Hoe and Gwen to focus on what God has done for me and not what I desire for my life. May He help me on this journey through the study of Genesis.
Thank you, Hoa and Gwen, for sharing on this painful subject. More than 35 years ago, my husband and I were struggling with infertility when my BSF group began studying Sarah’s and Abraham’s long wait for a child. I came to realize and accept that God knows the best ways to bless us. He soon opened doors to build our family through adoption. Now as I study Genesis again this year, I am so thankful for how God used BSF to reveal His mercy and purpose for our lives.
Renee, what a beautiful story of God’s surprising gifts!
This speaks to my heart on SO many levels. Thank you Thank you for sharing this. I am encouraged and at the same time challenged. May God be praised and glorified in your lives and stories. I want the same satisfaction in the Lord and will seek Him with all my heart!
That is the verse that the Lord provided for me to cling to on the morning that I miscarried the only child we ever conceived. It was the morning of a dear friend’s baby shower that I was hosting at my home. I clung to the verse for the entire day, at peace.Psalm 27:13
This was such an encouragement for me to read. “Surrender in Sadness” was so relatable to me. “Extreme sadness, becoming bitter & angry, turning (fill-in the blank here), into an idol. Sometimes we can become so focused on the things we want, that we don’t see the things we have.If your desire is for God, He will provide the contentment & guide your steps…He alone satisfies our unfulfilled longings”. Thank you for sharing.
Hoa and Gwen, thank you for sharing the insights that God has written through your lives for us to read, and from which we can take heart.
Thank you for sharing your heart felt struggles to come to terms with Gods will for your lives God Bess you.
This heartfelt story is very encouraging for difficult life challenges that we face. Thank you Hoa and Gwen for sharing. Blessings
This blog is just perfect for our times right now and not just for the exact reasons in this blog, but for all disappointments in our lives. The issues that are happening right now with our nation. The sadness over our lives right now with Covid 19 and also the serious issues with political violence . We need God more than ever right now. He is our only hope. As a nation we need to adjust our thinking, we need to trust God to know the best for us. We need to stop the hate. We can do it.
Very encouraging.
Beautiful, heart warming testimony. ..thsnk you for this real life sharing.
Am sincerely inspired by this testimony. Learning to be contented in the Lord. Also waiting to hear his leading in my situation.
Sometimes i have fallen victim in the struggle to get the next best and available solution for my situation. At one time i could hear the Lord asking me if the solution am looking for is in meant to fulfil my selfish desire or is it in the Lord’s purpose and glory; I can now hear Him teach me to be content in him. He has the best solution for my situation. I desire to serve and wait for his leading in my life.
that’s awesome.God brought Gwen into your life so you could encourage each other and gave you both contentment and freedom to serve. may you and your husbands be blestxx
Thanks Hoa and Gwen for sharing your story .
Beautiful, heart warming testimony. ..thsnk you for this real life sharing.
Wow! This is so helpful for me as I’m waiting on God’s timing for marriage and wondering what my future holds! God truly does encourage our hearts through His Word and His people!
Thank you Gwen and Hou for sharing your testimonies, a reflection that God is Sovereign. “I am confident that I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living “
Indeed during times of o uncertainties when our enemies are waiting for us to fall; yet I am confident I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am in the land of the living so wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous! How true.
I am so blessed by reading this testimony. Thank you dear Hoa and Gwen for being an example of godly women who trusts in the Lord in and through their struggles. Praying that the joy in the Lord would always run deeper than the death of any dream.
God is good! I am not infertile but I struggle with another problem that I am not at liberty to disclose. But your blog has been an affirmation to my problem. Just yesterday I told my daughters that I needed to be content in my circumstances until God changed them or even if he never changed them. Your blog, that has been in my email several days affirms my decision. Thank you for your blog.
I love the ministry of BSF. I often share my app with family and friends encouraging them to join. Thank you. Donna Broden
I am most grateful for this strong encouragement. A commitment to a life of contentment will always help me to live a life of gratitude to God every day. The study of Genesis has truly been a great blessing to me.
Great testimony.Am challenged to focus more on what I have than what I do not have. I have prayed for a life partner ever since in my 20’s and now 45years and marriage has not been forthcoming. It has not been easy especially when it comes to fitting in even in church because they wonder which group will you belong. Pressure from family, friends and others who do not understand the reason why.Others trying to make you understand you are not getting any younger etc. I have tried to find strength in God who owns the reason why, though there are times of low moments. The story of Sarah and Abraham and God keeping the promise to them at old age has really given me hope by understanding that in God’s timing it will come to pass. Amen.
Wow. This is very deep. Thank you for the encouragement. May you be blessed.
All our hopes should be entrusted in the Lord. The only comforter and problem solver.
Excellent article. Thanking both Hoa and Gwen for their transparency, journey and focus on our Lord. He alone is enough and He along can fill our brokenness on what we want, for He has also given us all that we have. I have not walked these shoes or traveled the roads of Hoa and Gwen, but I will remember their encouraging lessons and words (in case I run across another woman who needs encouragement). May God continue to teach, lead and bless your lives richly. Thank you again sisters and MIP for publishing!
Oh, so wonderful and meaningful message that I can pass to my niece waiting in the Lord for a baby… such an encouragement will be this for her… Thank you Jesus
That was a touching testimony,our Lord is our ‘reward and portion”.The study of Genesis was a blessed one .
Gwen & Hoa’s testimonies reflect the power of God to turn despair into contentment!! Sitting under Gwen’s teaching in BSF, it’s obvious she has birthed so many “spiritual” children all to God’s glory. Her joy is infectious.
I was unable to have children. The best advice I received was from a female OBGYN who asked me if I had a good marriage. I replied that my husband was my best friend. She told me to go home, love and cherish your husband. I did, and we were married for 40 yrs. before he died. I have never regretted that advice. I have a wonderful niece and great nieces whom I love and cherish.
My husband and I have been married for 34yrs now and are retired and still no children. Is it a disappointment, yes, does the hurt ever go away completely, no. There are times when friends talk of their grandchildren and how wonderful they are we just have to rejoice with them and let it pass. Mother’s Day I do not go to church as it just hurts still. Whenever my husband and I talk about our childless marriage we comfort each other and just pray. Only one who has not experienced the blessing of a child can ever understand and those with children need to be aware that their bragging brings hurt to others unintentionally. The world just doesn’t seem fair at times but the promise of Jesus’s second coming and going to heaven to be with Him forever where there are no more tears, hurts or sorrows and worshipping forever is such a gift that the excitement of it outweighs anything here on earth.
J,
Thank you for your testimony. You & your husband are courageous & faithful. Your personal experience speaks truth of your journey, one that many reading can relate to. Knowing you are a child of God & looking forward to eternity with your Father in heaven is a reassurance of the grace and mercy that gives others HOPE.❤
I too struggled with infertility. My situation was somewhat different and people may think I didn’t suffer with the emotional stress of it. But I did. I had a one child, but had always hoped for 2 children.
When she was 2, I began trying to have a second child. After 5 years of crying every month when my period started, infertility pills, and one miscarriage, I decided to give up that dream. It was a destructive idol in my life and I had to move on. I decided to go to college so I could take control of my life (as if we are in control). I am now retired, and as I look back, I can see how God had something better for me. I became an occupational therapist and specialized in lymphedema therapy. So many of my patients expressed to me how thankful they were that I had come into their life to help them. God put a passion into my heart to help this population and I loved them all. Even though retired, I still feel God calls me to continue to help those with lymphedema. I have a support group and am a resource to anyone in need of information. This is all God, and I believe this is why I didn’t have more children. If I would have had another child, I highly doubt I would have went to college and would have never even known what lymphedema is. God had a different plan in mind.
Amen sister. Beautiful story.
Denise, I have a dear friend struggling with lymphodema. Will you please post your support group information? It is such a blessing God called you to this work. I also understand your suffering in longing for a second child.
Hi Alisha, The lymphedema support group meets in Monroe, MI. We are currently not meeting due to COVID restrictions. Hope to resume meetings in March or April.
My husband and i also went through the infertility journey. I found i could not be around children – especially not young children for over a decade. I could related to high school age and up. It took years to heal from the devastation i felt. I still avoid worship services on Mother’s or Father’s day. I have grown in my faith and reliance on the Lord. I smile and giggle when i see a pregnant woman walking in front of me somewhere – that special waddle. It was 10 years before i could even hold a baby. And people’s in appropriate remarks hurt me and they hurt my husband. I am now 65, and recently widowed. All the more that i miss having children. But GOD! Has brought me through, sent me in different directions than i ever expected. Getting involved with a local infertility support group, helped me move forward, as well as reach out to others. There are still some occasions that bring up pain. My friends are grandparent, some even great grandparents. This is another life cycle in which i don’t get to participate. It has taken much prayer and Bible study to get to a place of contentment with where God has put me. That does not mean all pain is gone. It ebbs and flows. And when it flows, i walk closet to Jesus, and He makes me whole.
Thank you for sharing this story.
Beautiful testimony. Thank you for sharing your journey! I see that God’s journey has indeed taught you as you are able to serve and teach others in this life. Your pain is relatable to many and they too will see God through your pain and joy. Blessings!
This was a beautiful and heartwarming story of Gwen and Hoa and their struggles. A good reminder for all of us to “wait on the Lord.” His timing and reasoning is always best.
Exactly what I needed to hear today. My heart is hurting. I am angry. This is not what I thought life would be. But as you said, God’s plan is not about me; it’s all about Him. Feelings are not Truth. God help me stand on Your Truth today!
This just made me feel not so alone. Thank you for your brave comment. You never know who needs to hear what when but this was needed. Many blessings,
SP
Woah! Thank you so much for this wonderful and encouraging testimony! My biggest take away is that it’s never about us. It is all about God. One of the questions we had from Genesis lesson 14 this week was “why are people afraid to give their life totally to God?” One child responded that some people are afraid of giving up on their desires. Another child said, “because following God requires sacrifice.” I myself pondered over this question deeply. There was a time in my life when I had nothing to lose in following God entirely. I was at a point when my life was devastated and miserable. I surrendered totally to God, and the result was an indescribable intimacy with Him. Now that my life is better, I miss this total intimacy with Him, as I become so obsessed with this dream that is never fulfilled. Probably Hoa and Gwen’s testimony is a call for me to surrender once again totally to my Lord. It’s not about me. It’s all about Him. “Finding life after the death of a dream”… Thank you again
This is an awesomely deep sharing.
It’s very easy to take for granted what God has given us freely. The gift of children.
It’s my prayer that God will meet Hoa and Gwen at their points of need
I too have battled the acceptance of infertility. I am now way past childbearing years & have had great comfort in the lives of many, many children in our lives through the years. It has not been an easy journey. I also battled going to baby showers, the countless many questions of which one of you is it, why didn’t you adopt? On & on the questions and advice came with my tears. Mother’s Day has & continues to be tough but with such sweet families I know I have been blessed with being a significant part of their children’s lives. He coached children & we taught in Children’s SS department for years
I have gained strength in feeling God’s blessings in my life through His healing balm & I will “ Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1Thessalonians 5:18
This is a wonderful testimony and encouragement. It can be applied to any circumstance in our lives. I have been struggling with family disconnect and challenges and the “Genesis” study and now this testimony have been a great help and encouragement to wait on, and trust in, the lord.
I needed to read this today! I need to focus less on the state of our country/world and focus on keeping my eyes on God and His will !
Thank you BSF-I enjoy and need these lessons’
I have been praying for our president and our country. But to watch what happened in Washington DC yesterday, was so incredibly disappointing, I was sorry I prayed. I know that what the Lord has for our country is better than what I want and that nothing is too hard for for Him. Thank you for your testimony and for reminding me to wait upon the Lord.
I’m right there with you! I’ve been praying for our POTUS and our country-I prayed that GA would vote conservative-but for reasons out of our control-it didn’t happen! I feel that God has a plan-and we have to believe it will be for the best for God’s people-
I was there at rally, it was not as it appears, deception from media once again.
Jesus said there would be deception in the last days, I mean deception of Christians, the world is already deceived.
On another note I have been infertile also, but realized it wasn’t meant to be for me to have children, so when I was prompted to be a Bsf children’s leader, I wasn’t really seeing it tilI I saw it, perhaps I was just supposed to help others raise their kids in the way of the Lord, Lord knows they all need it!
Thank you! You sharing your struggles and how clingy to God’s truths and fellowshipping with Gwen helped you find contentment is encouraging! Thank you!
God hears your prayers. And please don’t forget that God alone is sovereign. He is in control-always! ❤️
This is very encouraging to me. It’s so true that when we allow our passionate desires to overshadow God’s purpose for our lives, we struggle with anger and bitterness, asking questions that we’re unable to find or even understand the answers. But when we bring ourselves to focus on God, we’re able to enjoy our peace in spite of our unanswered prayers.
I praise God that Hoa and Gwen are able to embraced God’s perfect will for them and release their own desires. I’m praying for that spiritual maturity. Thank you for the encouraging testimony.
Was talking just yesterday to a friend suffering infertility. She is losing hope,but i encouraged her to trust God for her future. It is tough though
I am encouraged.God is true even when our dreams fail.
Thank you for your beautiful story. It reminds me of our pastor’s wife, before they became head of our church. After they were married for about 2 year’s. They tried and and tried to have a child. She told me I don’t think I can get pregnant. I told her maybe it’s all in Gods timing. Put all your trust and faith in Him, and when the time is right you might be surprised. Finally she told me she was pregnant. She now has a young boy who will be 13yrs. old next month. He’s autistic, but such a special young man. It opened up an opportunity for her to open up a school for autistic children. God is good for those who trust and wait.
This story was such a blessing and reminded me of God’s provision in bringing encouragement not only through His Word but also through others who are experiencing the same thing.
Contentment is something I am learning to do in the situation am in . Thank you Hoa and Gwen for your testimonies. Am encouraged to wait upon the Lord.
What a beautiful testimony. Godliness with contentment is truly great gain especially when you are going thru valley-like experience. Thanks Hoa and Gwen for sharing your personal story and encouraging all of us including me.
This is so helpful in dealing with so many uncertainties that seem so hopeless around me….
Thank you ladies for sharing your dream to become a Mother. It helps me to reflect on this Bible verse, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all other things will be added unto you.”
These two women showed great courage in sharing their personal stories. They may never know how their words may impact another woman as she struggles with this issue but I know their testimonies will be read and re-read for encouragement. Thank you, Gwen and Hoa. And thank you both for your service to all of us as staff members at BSF headquarters!
we need a statement about Mr. Trump’s attempted coup on Wednesday, Jan. 6 that includes how Christianity and the American Republican party fit with BSF and its views on Christianity. You cannot ignore this problem just because BSF doesn’t talk about politics. Plenty of my fellow Christians believe that supporting Trump is part of their faith.
This really encouraged me so much. Thanks for penning this down. ? God bless your good heart and be the lamp of your feet wherever you go.
Such an encouragement in a wide array of circumstances. Thank you for sharing.
Am so blessed and encouraged to read how contentment this ladies are and waiting faithfully for our heavenly Father makes me reflect on his blessings upon our lives as a family.
Wonderful and encouraging testimonies. Really soul lifting!
Thank you Hoa and Gwen for sharing your testimony and speaking to contentment in the Sovereign Lord whatever our challenges may be.
Happy New Year!
Thank you for sharing that we are to live the life God set before us, especially when our desires keep our focus so limited. And thank you for sharing how when we surrender to Him, then He can step in and direct us down the path He has set before us.
An older lady introduced me to this prayer written by Betty Scott Stams many years ago. Giving up any dream is hard but this applies to all of them. “At any cost” phrase is what really hit me and took real submission.
Lord, I give up my own plans and purposes, all my own desires, hopes and ambitions, and I accept Thy will for my life. I give up myself, my life, my all, utterly to Thee, to be Thine forever. I hand over to Thy keeping all of my friendships; all the people whom I love are to take second place in my heart. Fill me now and seal me with Thy Spirit. Work out Thy whole will in my life at any cost, for to me to live is Christ. Amen.
This is so awesome. I needed this in my life. Not with children being the topic but another heartache I have. Thank you
This story is so beautiful. I’m encouraged by this sharing
I wish Hoa and Gwen all the very best in pursuing their dreams. God hears your cries, your desires and will speak to you clearly.
Thank you for your incredible sharing.
This is well said and a reminder to us that it`s only God who can provide and am contented with what He has given me. I will continue praying for my desires but will put the desires of the kingdom first and I know he will fulfill them according to His timeline
God knows our heart, He knows what is good for us let continue to focus on Him day by day am encouraged with your story thank you
Thank you for the many lesson
Contentment the greatest gift
Sitting in God’s waiting room with busy hands
I have been lifted in my spirit
thank you for the lesson, that in all things let God be the focus. all else fall short. and that in every situation have God in perspective. what is he teaching and telling me?
Amen for sharing indeed it is comforting – God knows us ,hears us,loves us and knows what’s best for us and HE has the perfect time for our blessing.May we lean on God alone.
Hao and David, Gwen and Russell, thank you for this encouraging and brave testimony. I absolutely feel you both couples, as my husband I are also in the same boat with you. 10 years of beautiful marriage continue to pray to fully accept and be in peace of what God has planned for my marriage (with or without kid) for His glory and for my good.
absolutely agreed with Gwen, it is super easy to focus on me being pregnant that its hard for me to be thankful for all the blessings I have received.
again thank you and continue to be strong and courageous in the Lord.
Hugs from Paris.
Encouraging, seeing life as all about God, makes it easier to go through life even when our dreams are shattered.
Inspiring Message from the Lord for this day. Thanks for this great testimony
I am reminded to be thankful to the Lord for what I have.
I am a man with recent experiences of seeing people around me facing death, a son drowned; a premature pregnancy death; second premature pregnancy death; an old friend passed away…. What more – a death of a dream.. well say and so true in our life. Learning contentment n expect nothing but wait upon his calling and be attentive to others’ who need us around. The world becomes a better place till we depart and can face our Lord and say we did it!
Amen and Amen! What a story! Very inspirational I too am encouraged and will be content with what I have.
Thank you for the testimony. Yes , Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.’”
This is a very encouraging article. My husband and I have also been struggling with conceiving… We have both come to a place where we are content with the life God has given us now…and his numerous other gifts. It is so freeing to just wait and trust God…knowing that his plans and purpose for our lives is for our good and His glory.
Lovely and very encouraging. May the book of Genesis teach us to understand that our God is the same one. And He never changes. He does His work according to the right time. And He surely knows what is best for us.
Let us learn from the scriptures what great faith our forefathers had.
But we may never fully understand the intricacies of God’s plan, because it’s never about us. It is about Him and what He desires to do through us for His glory.
This is one of the greatest lessons I am learning in the study of Genesis. Thank you for sharing.
Uplifting and timely message!
There is pain also for the mother who will never be a grandmother. It is so difficult to watch my own daughter’s infertility struggles. All we can do is lean on God and give Him our tearful prayers for a different kind of fulfillment. He is able.
A double Amen to God’s Promises quoted Ps:27:13-14…Our Good LORD is Faithful and True to His Word and only He knows us inside out.
Inspiring, encouraging and comforting !
God bless you.
I can relate to the deep disappointment, not of infertility, but of living in a fallen world. This past presidential election in the US has shattered hope for the future… BUT, I serve a sovereign LORD who says it is He himself who establishes those in authority. I need to trust Him… just like Abraham, who was probably very confused when God asked him to sacrifice his promised son… the one he waited 25 years for! The one through whom God said his offspring would be reckoned. Why would God ask him to do this? Yet he trusted God. He got up…and he set out for the place God had told him about. Welcoming God’s plan can indeed be painful… but there is no better place to be, even if we don’t understand that plan.
Hoa and Gwen, thank you so much for your encouragement. Only God knows what we need and he only is the one who can satisfy us. May he give us the grace to lean on him.
Great testimony. Contentment and hope in God.
Thank you Hoa and Gwen for sharing a hard and very personal struggle. My husband and I walked that road, in 9 years of marriage I had an ectopic pregnancy, a miscarriage and then our first born, a precious son, died at almost 7 months. It is such a painful journey. We found that you have to lean into the Lord and trust His perfect plan for your life. My key verse that I clung to was Psalm 37:4 – “Take delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” We had to find our delight in the Lord alone and trust in His faithfulness in our lives. He blessed us beyond our wildest dreams, boy and girl twins after 9 years and then a complete surprise of another daughter after 11 years. He certainly gave us the desires of our hearts, but it was a lesson in growing faith, trust in the Lord and great patience.
Amen lovely encouraging story to fix our eyes on God not what we don’t have
As i read Gwen and Hoa’s story, i am alarmed at how lightly we take the gift of children or any other gift. Thank God for the revelation that contentment is the very best gift. May i be content in my gain and also in my loss. Like we sing ” shall i be carried through the sky on flow’ry beds of ease while others fight to win the prize and sail through bloody seas?”
I feel your pain and have known your disappointment. After four years of marriage, a new house with bedrooms we planned to fill with children, our dream seemed to die. We pursued adoption, which is not a speedy process. Although we always knew we wanted to have kids, I was the one who faced disappointment month after month when I wasn’t pregnant. I needed something to fill the void and found “someone” to do just that. I became a Big Sister thinking having a little 5 year old girl would fulfill the need in me to parent a child. God had other plans. The Little Sister I was assigned was a 15 year old girl who was estranged from her parents. We had weekly dates that most often ended with hamburgers and shakes at our local burger shop and lots of conversation. When my Little Sister was about to turn 17, she called me to say she was going to be emancipated, meaning she would no longer have the safety net of going to a group home when she was kicked out of or ran away from her parents’ home. My husband and I agreed we would invite her to come live with us so she could finish high school. She moved into our home in January and I gave birth to our first baby girl in February. For us, God wasn’t saying “No.” He was saying, “Not yet. I have other plans for you right now.”
Mickey, such an amazing example of God’s precious plans. Praying for you and your family!
Wow an amazing story here.
Profound… That we often lose focus of what we have as we focus on what we do not have. God bless you Hoa and Gwen for sharing your stories
Thanks for this encouraging testimony. It’s good to be in God’s waiting room serving and trusting Him for His faithfulness. I pray for patience and contentment in my daily walk of faith.
Hi, thanks for an inspiring sharing which reflecting on the vulnerability of human belonging after the fall. Such belonging that we are struggling with is real and yet often we are settled with earthly tangible things than heavenly provisions from God our Father in heaven.
Recently, I was over concerned of my daughter who lives in overseas to an extent of sleepless nights. One night the Lord convicted to me that I have an Unbelief heart. Yes, I prayed yet I worries. That night by the help of God’s grace I repented and learn to keep trusting God will take care of my daughter and she is able to take care of herself through God’s hand and love.
Indeed it’s true. Our focus must be on God, he will provide at his own time. He knows us. What an amazing and inspiring true life story. I will share this with someone i know who is going through the same thing.
“God opened my eyes to be content with what He has placed before me. I pray for excitement for whatever God has planned.
This is a great prayer to pray always and I am adopting it right away. In all things we should give thanks bcoz God knows what’s best for us better than we do. Thank you so much for encouraging us with your testimony and may our faithful God grant your heart’s desire at the appointed time. Amen.
Thanks for sharing Hoa and Gwen. It is a beautiful testimony. Indeed, God is faithful through all seasons.
Oh how this speaks to me. I have struggled with infertility, though through His grace, I have been blessed with three boys. This is not an easy season for me and I often feel like it was a cruel joke to give me boys. I worry that despite my efforts my children may not become the men I envisioned, all the while tearing at the wound of not having a girl, because surely she would have changed the dynamic and provided our home with a little extra calmness and understanding. My heart is focused on the failed dream, and chaos just sets in deeper. I truly need to focus on God’s glory and receive that contentment that His magesty brings.
It is a touching testimony to believe God in faith and obedience. Thank you for sharing.
Jesus Christ, my living hope.
Hallelujah!!
Amazing reading, this has encouraged me as I have struggled through a similar situation
Be blessed for sharing
Thank you for sharing your testimony Hoa and David; and Gwen and Russell.
Just know God’s ways and plans are higher than ours. His time is perfect.
May your faith and hope with love for the Lord sustain you and never wane.
Just stand in faith.
Thank you for the testimony. Studying the book of Genesis for me so far has helped me and continues to do so, to surrender to the God who sees me. I cling to the Promise Maker and Keeper
What an encouraging testimony! Our hope and contentment come from God! God always engage us in much fulfilling activities when we do not get what we desire! Our God knows what is good for each one of us before we ask
Thats an awesome testimony of contentment in God .. Praise and thank God .
Love, love, love!!!! Always wait for the Lord, His timing is perfect!!!
My name is Faith from Kenya. I have always been amazed at how God impacts His people through BSF. The story of Hoa and Gwen is very inspiring and puts 1Tim 6:6 Godliness with contentment is great gain in context. It is encouraging to know that even in what may be seemingly painful, God is in every thread of it and is in the business of bringing the best out of everyone of us for his Agenda. For sure the word of God is relevant across generations and remains relevant to date
My name is Angela from kenya .
The story of Gwen and Hoa is amazing and very encouraging knowing that Gods blessings remain in those who are contented and remain faithful even when lt feels painful his blessings endures forever, we are are faced with different circumstances in life.
I remember when my doctor told me l cant bear any children, l lost hope but believe that Gods plan are greater than mans.
After several year l got two sons Nathan and Jason.
In all circumstances Gods plans are greater than ours, contentment is virtual and keeps as at peace.
We give glory to God because his plans are for sure greater.
Bsf has been a blessing to many and we pray that God will bless us in his teaching. Amen
Angela, what a beautiful reminder to remain faithful when life is painful. Thank you!
Yes, I have no problem with infertility, I have 17 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren yet I have a problem being content in this COVID era world, reading the gals testimony was very helpful and focused my attention on God and his plan for me. Living in a fallen world is painful, I need to see my suffering as being weaned from thinking that I can have my own way. God doesn’t want me to be tyrannized by what I want but realize God has a plan for our life and I need to see what it is that he wants for my life. Like those gals who can’t have children, well things are not what I like. I want things to be normal again but that may never happen, yet God can teach me to be content, God has a purpose and plan, his ways are not my ways.This COVID Era has deepen my relationship with God out of necessity, without pain no gain. I find I seek God through his word more and receive his comfort. I don’t take in person church for granted after on line church.
God always answers our prayers, yes, no, and sometimes wait. And the waiting can be the hardest answer! But He draws us to Himself, challenging us to grow in Him, cling to Him, trust Him. I don’t have to like His answers, but I do need to recognize His sovereignty in all things. Besides, He works all things for my good! You can’t beat that!
What an awesome testimony of God-given contentment from Hoa and David; Gwen and Russell.
I feel humbled when l read this text and ask God for forgiveness for taking the so many things for granted.
Faith, I can relate! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for sharing.
God remains faithful irrespective of our circumstances.
We can fix our eyes on Him and be contented.
Beautiful! Thank you for sharing. This is a much needed word for many of our young women and for many of us who have dreams that have not come to fruition.
THANK YOU FOR SHARING!!! “OUR GOD IS WONDERFUL AND CERTAINLY “OUR GOD REIGNS” AND ALWAYS ANSWERS PRAYERS IN “HIS” PERFECT TIMING!!! GOD BLESS
Thank you for sharing your heart, so many times when our dreams seem to have died, we let our feelings rob us of the Joy we have in Jesus.
Martha, that is so beautifully said!
I so get what you are sharing . For years it was Habakkuk 3:17 and Phil 4:12 . When the fig tree is barren
( such a cold term ), I dug deep and wrote tons of prayers and lament in my journal to God. The waiting was long ( 10 Years ) . The BSF study is reminiscent and truly His Eye is on the sparrow ? . Sing because he is our treasure. My son was born just before I turned menopausal … it’s ok to Yield to Him. All praise and thanks to Our Lord?
God is our Lord. When we become Christians, we should let God be our life planner and fully let go of our own will and let God be in full control. Just think about being empty handed when we come and leave this world, we should “let go” the thought of “possession ” and we can live a happy life. We can also experience happy time as a Sunday children bible study tutor if we do not have children of our own. We can also experience the close relationship then. If you are facing naughty children you might think it’s lucky that I don’t have kids! Life without children may on the other hand, a blessing of freedom from problems you have to encounter if you have kids from God.
Follow God’s plan for us is a lesson to learn to please God and follow His will throughout our life as a Christian.
I thank God everyday for the day i joined BSF, i have learnt so much and the most important message that i have picked up in my three years of study is learning to let God take control of my life. I had a traumatic event in my life which left me wondering how to move on but since my joining BSF it is clear that Gods ways are the best and he comforts us through it all. I am learning to wait on God and to truly truly trust and obey his word. A very freeing feeling. Like Noah, Abraham , and many others in the bible i will continue to pray and trust that God will guide me in all that he wants to bless me with in his own time.
We all suffer disappointments and unfulfilled dreams (especially in the current ongoing pandemic) but I am committed to taking the Truth of our study of Genesis as my focus for the New Year…Be “committed to contentment” because nothing is impossible with God
I understand what was said above! The Waiting process can be VERY FRUSTRATING!! However GOD ALWAYS HEARS US!????????
HOWEVER WE MUST BE PATIENT.
Thank you both for sharing! Wait on the Lord and continue to wait on Him. God is timely. He will answer you at His own time. God never fails. He never failed Abraham and Sarah, therefore be assured He will not fail you. Just praise Him whenever you feel like you are in a state of unhappiness and low spirit.
Thank you for sharing this testimony it is indeed that God has a plan for us.
Its not always about us but about him(God) and what he wants to accomplish something in us through us
I appreciate so much Hoa and Gwen sharing their struggles with infertility. I too struggled with infertility in my younger years. I still feel the pain of it but, God is greater than the pain. Psalms 113:9 (NKJV) really ministered to me: “He grants the barren woman a home, like a joyful mother of children. Praise the Lord!”
I needed this. “When we experience the death of a dream, the loss often threatens to pull our eyes from Christ.” Yes, it does. And yet, God gives me strength when I my hope fails, when my heart wanders, and when my eyes are not focused on Him. Thank you so much for sharing your story and the scripture, Psalm 27:13-14. God bless you!
I realize that my wish is not God’s plan for me or His wish for me. I’m learning to trust him and wait for his guidance. I’m blessed many things in my life and thankful. In most of all His salvation!!!
Hoa,
“Content” is my current word from God for this season of my life. I usually do not get an annual word, but a seasonal one and content is the latest. My contentment struggle relates to career and employment options, and my desire to be self-employed. I have been asking God if “content” is still my word going into this year and your reference to the 1 Timothy 6:6 is another confirmation that I am to hold on to that word. Thank you for sharing and my favorite line from above is: “Sometimes we can become so focused on the things we want, that we don’t see the things we have.” God has truly blessed me in so many ways. I like the double negative for emphasis: God is never not faithful. Thanks!
thank you so much for sharing , today the Lord spoken to me to pray for excitment in the midst of struggles and to It’s easier to sit in God’s waiting room when you’re busy with your hands.
Continue to glory HIM !
What an inspiring testimony. God’s plan always prevail and your story encourages me to do a stock check on the things I am grateful for.
Thank you
May God bless your life abundantly
I too have struggled with infertility in the past, culminating in two miscarriages. When I reached a very early menopause at 42, I heard God’s decision for me, yet still found pain in seeing others’ families for many years. Over the past number of years God has healed my pain and bitterness, and I have found joy in submitting to His path for me, in part through being a Children’s Leader in BSF.
I am so moved by this piece and the words from God. This is very encouraging as I’m going through financial hardship. But this sharing reminds me how blessed I am to have two adorable kids, and it’s just so true that sometimes we ignore what we have already, instead of pursuing Godliness and contentment in God. If we bear this in mind and focus on God, tiny little things can make us happy. Life is much more simple.
Thank you for this message. I know what the hopes and losses can do to a heart. But I have the memory of a little girl who lived for four months as a result of several procedures. I know too the joy of holding little ones at church. He gives us love and healing. He never leaves us empty. He keeps his promises.
Silence and fellowship with God, give happiness and peace to understand God’s design that is in Him for us believers, namely the plan of peace.
Praising God for these amazing and encouraging words! Thank you for your vulnerability Gwen & Hoa!
Thank you, Ladies. What a beautiful story that is so full of hope and Love thru our Lord Jesus Christ. And your faith!
Thank you for your vulnerability! At my point in life, nearing 70, this is a message of being content in Christ and not in any plan I may have. Thank you for your timely reminder that God is always “on time”!
Yes! Contentment is a learning process with God at your side.
He brings us to the other side of our desires to want His desires.
How blessed we are when we come to that place of joy.
Philippians 4:11
Thank you for sharing.
What great faith you have. I wish you happiness and that God sees your wishes and fulfills them
With all that is going on now in Washington, I’m so sad. Thank you for this blog, God is in control, I’m at pease knowing this is so true.???
Thank you so much. On this day, January 6, I needed to read this and take encouragement from these words of the Psalm, “I will remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
Wonderful write up and great testimonies.
Very helpful.I am encourage to be content with what I have commit to God what I do not have.He has purposes in His will for our individual calling and His timing is best.
Thank you for the encouragement!
WOW! This word can fit in so many situations. So many broken dreams yet we look to the Lord and Him alone to fulfill us. Thank you for sharing.
This story and many others encourage me to stay close to God and his word and keep up the hope in my daily life.
I’m so blessed with her life story and how the Lord moved to her heart through His word.Wait on the Lord’s timing and be content.serve and obey Him.BLESSINGS WILL FOLLOW.
This is so true. We sometimes forget the wonderful blessings God has bestowed on us, and concentrate on things we do not have and want.
Wow!!!! What a testimony
I will be praying for both you ladies
I am 40 years old I too long for children well marriage first!
I am containing to wait on God
The lessons we have learned through Sarah and Abraham have blessed me
I too have found contentment in Christ alone!
I am standing on his promises
You have powerfully described the aching emptiness of your hearts. My daughter -law has struggled for years with. She is now creating a ministry on Facebook with messages of encouraging messages for those who need are needing a “a friendly “ listener. She is now more content.
Thank you! This piece blessed me so much. It is good to know I am not alone in this struggle with infertility and finding contentment in God’s plan for my life without children.
I am struggling with running my financial prioties and being contented with what God has blessed me with for my family of seven. Thanks for the lesson. I trust God to intervene in His own way.
Thanks for sharing these honest reflections about a topic that affects so many couples and brings so much heartache. It’s encouraging to be reminded that it’s natural to ask “Why?” but we can’t stay there. The mystery of God’s ways shouldn’t leave us paralyzed, but should humble as and remind us that we are privileged to be his servants, which often includes pouring into the next generation. It’s easy to want to pull away from families and children when going through the heartache of not having a child, but it’s a good reminder that serving others’ little ones may be the very means through which God wants to reveal his goodness in our lives. I love that question of “Where is my desire?” It’s a helpful way to examine my own heart, because it will never be content if I’m desiring anything but the Lord. Thank you again for sharing this article.
So encouraged and touched at the ‘realness’ of these testimonies. Thank you both for sharing. Many of us walk about with dreams that are not fulfilled, I am grateful to know that God is working in people today as He worked in the life of Sarah and Hagar.
God is always faithful wherever life takes us. I claimed his peace when going through a cancer journey this year. I stayed focused on his word to not be anxious for anything but through prayer and Thanksgiving just to make my petition known to him.
I will wait for God’s timing
This is so what I needed right now. We are on our final round of IVF with egg donors. This is “our last chance.” I have been struggling. Thank you for sharing.
So encouraging, thank you both for sharing your stories.
Amazing testimony HOA! My wife and I had a similar experience of praying for a child. God answered our prayers and my wife conceived and we had a daughter after 6 years of our marriage.
Now my daughter is 21 years old.
You never know how God works in our lives.
Please continue to stay faithful in your prayers.
Our God is a miracle.
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
Amen.
This is so touching! Remembering Gods promises and love to us is so important to do as Christians- especially in times of sadness/trouble. I too have been struggling with infertility and have found so much peace with knowing what God already provides for me and the life I still get to live every day!