What are YOU Thankful For?
Oct 10th, 2008 by wof
In November, we celebrate all that causes us give thanks.
What are you most thankful for?
Let us know by leaving a comment, and we may just quote you in next month’s Faith to Faith.
Oct 10th, 2008 by wof
In November, we celebrate all that causes us give thanks.
What are you most thankful for?
Let us know by leaving a comment, and we may just quote you in next month’s Faith to Faith.
I am thankful for….life. In the last few years, since 2004, I have had five major back surgeries, most likely looking at another one this November, 2008. Because of where my problems are, every time I have a surgery my chances of loosing some of my ability to walk. God has blessed me in that I am still able to walk, not confined to a wheel chair. I am so very thankful that God has continued to bless me with the ability to continue to walk, breath, to live my life.
Through all of my illness & surgery, God has given me my biggest blessing that I am thankful for….. my husband. He is very tender, very helpful, very loving to me as we both battle this illness of mine, with the strength God has given us. He promised to not give us more than we can handle, to me that is more than we can handle as we walk & lean on our God for strength to endure all of the illness we battle daily. I truly believe that God gave me this wonderful husband of 30 years, to walk with me, to let our love for God & each other grow in faith & hope.
I am thankful for my life, the good, the bad, because through it all, I see God working in my life, in my testimony of praise of how God blesses me, my husband & family in the good times, in the hard times. I thankful God is in my (our) lives every day-I can not imagine how my life (our lives) would be without God.
I am thankful for….life. I have had five major back surgeries since 2004, another on this Nov’ 08. Every time I have a surgery my chances of loosing my ability to walk increases. God has blessed me b/c I am still able to walk, for which I am so very thankful.
God has given me my biggest blessing that am thankful for….. my husband. He is very tender, very helpful, very loving-caring-as we both battle this illness of mine. God promised to not give us more than we can handle, to me that is more than we can handle as we walk & lean on our God for strength to endure all the struggles we battle daily. I truly believe that God gave me this wonderful husband of 30 years, to walk with me, to let our love for God & each other grow in faith & hope.
I am thankful for my life, the good, the bad, because through it all, I see God working in my life, enabling to testify how I thankful God is in my (our) lives every day-I can not imagine how my life (our lives) would be without God.
For God’s never ending love and his faithfulness no matter what!
Also for God’s many blessings …we have so much to be thankfulr for.
Life, children, spouses, homes , jobs, transportation, the freedom of Amreica.
We really have so much to be thanful for as I hear people talk and lament…They never really done without and I hope they never have to but just be thankful for our everyday …
I am a foster/adoptive Mom. After our latest adoptions are final in a few months they will number in at 11. They range from 2 to 26. 10 of them will be adopted and one birth child. I am simply amazed each day that God trusts me so much with these beautiful children. Several are special needs and they bring joy to my life on a daily basis. Our soon to be adopted latest addition has Ectodactial ectodermal dysplasia. She is blind and partialy deaf. She has no tear ducts, no sweat glands, Cleft lip, cleft palate, only 5 teeth, three fingers on each hand and two toes on each foot. We prayed the day before they called us that God would send us a child that we could help. Well when they called I was very hesitant to take a child with so many problems when I have so many children with other issues. But we prayed about it and decided that this was what God had planned for us. She is a joy and a blessing. She has added so much to our home and keeps us all laughing. These are the things I am thankful for.
I am most thankful for my family & my wonderful friends! Without them I would be lost. My daughter makes me want to be a better person. She is only 8, yet she is so touched by God and she gets it! She gets what he says, how he wants us to treat others with kindness and be better people. I feel so blessed and am truly thankful for these special people in my life!
I am thankful for the ability to finally see the grace of God in my life! No more by luck or chance moments, no more right place at the right time. Each and every moment a beautiful gift from God and I and thankful for the eyes to see and the ears to hear his blessings.
Every day I am thankful to have the freedom in religious belief and practice. It is an important time for me during the Jewish high holidays, Rosh Hashanah - Yom Kippur to reflect and atone for my sins and move forward hopefully with a better and stronger path in life. I am thankful to “Hashem” for keeping the gates opened all the time so when I slip away “He’s” not going to totally leave me in despair. I am grateful for experiencing a “Women of Faith” journey and continuing with their warm and encouraging words of wisdom via email news letters and books. It has been at least 7 years since my memorable weekend. My growth has been stimulated by listening and hearing stories from “Women of Faith”. For all this, “I am Grateful”.
LeChayim my friends.
I am very thankful for my SEARCH family. They are the most amazing people and the best group I could ever belong to–ever! We work together to put on retreats to help others find or strenghten their faith, in God and one another, but we get so much from it too. Ask and you shall recieve–it is so true with this family. They are more than friends and one hurts we all hurt. We do an email prayer request and one is weak the others are strong, in prayer and asssitance. We have a lot of hugs, smiles and laughs together too. I love them and thank God for his blessing by bringing these people to my life.
I am very thankful for my SEARCH family. They are the most amazing people and the best group I could ever belong to–ever! We work together to put on retreats to help others find or strenghten their faith, in God and one another, but we get so much from it too. Ask and you shall receive–it is so true with this family. They are more than friends and one hurts we all hurt. We do an email prayer request and one is weak the others are strong, in prayer and asssitance. We have a lot of hugs, smiles and laughs together too. I love them and thank God for his blessing by bringing these people to my life.
I am thankful for the 1st year of my daughter’s life. After the complicated pregnancy and birth of our son, my husband and I felt having another biological child was not an option. God knew otherwise. 23months after our son was born, our healthy daughter was born. She’s 1yr on November 13th. God planned for our little Talia and made emotional and financial provisions for her to join our family.
I’m thankful for a Godly, understanding, patient, loving husband.
God has blessed me with a man who compliments my abilities
and lack of abilities. How wise of HIM!!
I’m thankful that I my mother is in heaven with her Lord and that I will see her again. God has blessed me with a wonderful family and Godly parents.
It has almost been a full year of “life interupted”. My husband of 22 years was diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer Nov. 2007. Stage IV literally means 4-6 months. He began his first chemo treatments in Dec. 2007, which consists of 14 oral chemo days 6 pills a day and a 4 hour IV each week with another chemo, plus many medications. He has an inopertable mass in the tail of the pancreas and definetely no radiation. We are Christians and standing on the promises of God. Many family and friends sending prayers to the Lord’s ears from the north, south, east and west, I am thankful that God does hear prayer. Almost one year later my husband’s condition remains stable. Even through the darkest days spent in the hospital God was there. Doctor’s know that a miracle is taking place day by day. Yes, I am truly thankful God hears our cries and prayers everyday and gives me awesome strength in time of need.
WHen asked what am I most thankful for - it is to be living in this country, to have the freedom to worship, spend time with Christian friends, family and to travel freely. We don’t have to wonder when the next air raid or bomb will be dropped. There are so many things we take for granted - a job, food on the table, homes or apartments to live in. We can sit comfortably under the tree, on the beach and read our bible, discuss what Christ has done for us and to show concern and care for others. Let us continue to be blessed and be a blessing to others that come into our lives.
I am most thankful for God giving me health that the Doctor’s said wasn’t possible . Six and 1/2 years ago they told me I had Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis which is a rare liver disease and I would only last about 18 months. Well, all my friends at my church (First United Methodist of Punta Gorda) and in my Bible studies and old friends churches in Ohio and all over started praying and holding fund raisers (as I had no insurance and was a single Mom) and I am proud to say that i have not had to have a transplant and the Doctors now say that I have pushed the transplant back maybe 15 years or more!!! I say that is the power of prayer and the grace of God. What a wonderful God we have!! I gave the problem to Him to take on as it was to large for me to worry about and He has handled it wonderfully and continues to do so. Through Him all things are possible!!!
It has almost been a full year of “life interupted”. My husband of 22 years was diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer Nov. 2007.
Almost one year later my husband’s condition remains stable. Even through the darkest days spent in the hospital God was there. Doctor’s know that a miracle is taking place day by day. Yes, I am truly thankful God hears our cries and prayers everyday and gives me awesome strength in time of need.
I LOST MY HUSBAND ALMOST A YEAR AGO. WE HAD BEEN MARRIED FOR 43 YEARS. I AM DISABLED, AND HE WAS MY CARETAKER FOR MANY YEARS. I AM THANKFUL FOR HAVING A HUSBAND WHO LOVED ME, LIKE CHRIST LOVED THE CHURCH. I THANK GOD, THAT WHEN HIS WORD TALKS ABOUT THE TWO BECOMING ONE, THAT IT WAS THE KIND OF RELATIONSHIP WE HAD.
I’m most thankful for God’s faithfulness. When my heart gets anxious about the 2008 Presidential election, I can go to Him and tell Him how I’m feeling and He gives me peace. I know He’s in control of ALL things…….even elections.
I’m also most thankful that we can vote without being shot at, intimidated by a terrorizing faction, or threatened bodily harm in any way. Praise God for allowing us to be born in a country that is free.
See above comment
I am so thankful for God saving me, at different times of the day I’ll just suddenly be thankful for God’s grace, I can’t imagine where I would be if He hadn’t saved me. I have a nonbelieving husband but I am thankful God has helped me love my husband even more than I could ever imagine, and I have realized this is the life God has given me to pray for my family and the faith I receive from those prayers keep me going through the day. But most of all God has awesome grace that has changed my life at 55 years old I am still growing but way different than what I was before I became a believer. I am just so thankful for the difference God has made in my life. Sometimes I feel like that cheshire cat in Alice in Wonderland, with that big smile on my face and I can only think it is God that keeps that light in my heart, that undescribable hope you feel.
I am so thankful for my family. I have 3 super kids and a wonderful husband. We have been going through alot of health challenges the past few years and we are all still here. Each day really is a miracle for us. It has made us stronger people and has helped us draw closer to God.
I am SO thankful for the friendship of Sheila Walsh. She has been my “lifeline” and “sounding board” during these difficult times. Without her support and encouragement I don’t know if I would have made it. I truly believe God arranged it so we would become friends. She is like a part of our family. I thank God for her.
I’m most thankful for God’s faithfulness. When
I”v tried to send 3 times. Don’t think it works
I am so thankful that I will see another birthday. You see my birthday falls on November 21st. Then there is Thanksgiving. These two holidays are my favorite. I thank God for both. Wait, my birthday isn’t a holiday. November also means fall is here. I live in Florida were the leaves barely change. It does get cold but that is another month or two. I’m thankful that I live in a country that allows me to worship a God who is so awesome. I’m thankful for my freedom. I’m thankful for all my family and friends. I think that I could go on forever for being thankful. God has been so good to me. I’m also thankful for Women of Faith and their conferences. You girls mean a lot to me. You give all the encouragement I need. I thank you for that. Truly yours, Rose Bain of Dunnellon, Florida
I am so thankful that I will see another birthday. You see my birthday falls on November 21st. Then there is Thanksgiving. These two holidays are my favorite. I thank God for both. Wait, my birthday isn’t a holiday. I’m thankful that I live in a country that allows me to worship a God who is so awesome. I’m thankful for my freedom. I’m thankful for all my family and friends. I think that I could go on forever for being thankful. God has been so good to me. I’m also thankful for Women of Faith and their conferences. You girls mean a lot to me. You give all the encouragement I need. I thank you for that. Truly yours, Rose Bain of Dunnellon, Florida
I am most thankful for the privilege of praying to our Lord God. Any time, any where I can talk to my Heavenly Father. I am an ordinary person with access to extraordinary power. Hallelujah!
Where do I start?! I am so thankful that I have Christ to start with. By following Him, He has blessed me beyond my wildest dreams. I’m not talking about material and wealth. I’m talking about true love blessings. 3 yrs ago, I completely turned everything over to Him and let go of my “control” of my life. He blessed me with a Godly man, who is now my husband; He blessed me with restoring my health; He blessed me with a new business venture. And all of these things were on my heart, but when I turned it all over to Him, He blessed me beyond what I asked for - which turned out to be better for me than what I asked for! God is so good and I’m so thankful for so many things. Thank you, Jesus, for loving a broken soul like mine. To anyone who is searching to fill the “void”, take the gift that Christ gave His life for, and you’ll receive a love which surpasses all understanding, a peace that fills you to the rim, and you’ll be content in every situation. God Bless!
I am thankful for being alone and sick. It has made me depend solely on God. It has been difficult, but God is there and He is real. I am thankful that I was given a scholarship to the Women of Faith Conference in Anaheim Ca. too. It reminded me of how God is there.
I am especially thankful for Women of Faith. The speakers have brought so much joy into my life; I come away renewed and refreshed. I can hardly wait for the Inifinite Grace Conference coming up just before Thanksgiving in Glendale, Arizona.
I am especially thankful for Women of Faith. I come away from the conferences renewed and refreshed.
I am most thankful for my family. I am eternally grateful to God for giving me my grandparents. I was blessed to have them in my life for longer than most women my age. I was extremely close to each one. I am lucky to still have one grandfather here. My dad’s mother brought her love of God and Mary into my life. I am thankful for the peace I felt when she passed away knowing that grandma was ready to meet her Savior in heaven-she embraced it. I am so thankful for when my dad’s father passed away and just when I thought I couldn’t bear the pain of losing him any longer, he let me know he was okay. In what some skeptics might say was “just a dream” I know was real. I believe my grandpa came to me and assured me he was going to be alright. I’ll never forget that. And, my mom’s mother who we lost a few years ago. I am thankful for this little lady’s mighty spirit. The gifts each grandparent has given me are priceless and continue to bless me today.
I am most thankful for Women of Faith conferences! These weekends have provided the opportunity for the women in my family to come together from all the places we’ve scattered over the years. With unforgettable messages, invigorating worship songs and the grace of our Heavenly Father, Women of Faith weekends have filled me with gratitude! May God bless you all!
where does one begin, when we think of all that we should be Thankful for. I have recently discovered a Thanksgiving Prayer by Ron Bliss while preparing for our womens ministrys annual church tea. Our theme this year is Our Prayers of Thanks!. During these trying times of world disasters, wars, economy rollercoaster, medical trials and tribulations, so many things the world over and each and every one of us with individual hurts deep within our hearts. Loved ones lost be it spiritually, physically, emotionally where do we start. Of course we value and are thankful for our freedom, for all, that sacrifice their lives every day for that right. For our food, the air we breath, our families ,our health so very many things and reasons for our daily Thanksgiving Grace.
We are all truly blessed and Ron Bliss says it this way:
“But most of all I’m Thankful for His offer of salvation, His willingness to die for me, That I be cleansed of sin, That someday I might hear His voice, As he says “enter in” So as you bow your heads this year, Prepared to do your part, Dont speak to Him with just your mind, But open up your heart.”
I am Thankful to be a part of Gods big picture no matter where it leads. The Women of Faith have brought so many women together to share Gods word and share in our callings. Thank You. For each and everyone of you I am Thankful!!
A Great friend(Dee) that God has place in my life who is an encourager and has been there for my through recent health problems and a stressful work enviroment and my church Calvary Chapel
I am thankful for my sister Hope. Two years ago she insisted I go to the WOF conference in Philly. At that conference I rededicated my life to God. Little did I know how drastically my life would change. When we went to preconference on Friday night there was a goody bag. I had been praying for a sign from God on what I needed to focus on. When I opened the bag a book mark fell out of it. I read the book mark and started crying. It asked if you have an eating disorder. Wow what a shock! God was speaking to me for the first time. see I had been dealing with anorexia since I was 14 but wait that was not the only sign God sent me. The next day I bought Robin McGraw’s book and decided after hearing her speak I wanted her to sign it. Well I went to the area where she would be signing and low and behold I was the first one in the line. I took that as a sign from God to put myself first for once and get help for my ED. Well when I left WOF I was so ready to move on to what God had planned for me. I called Remuda that Monday and on Oct. 24th 2006 I was where God had lead me, Remuda Ranch to get help. Praise God! So when I look back over the past two years, I remember that I have so much to be thankful for. WOF and my sister Hope and all those people God has put in my path of recovery. Thank you for saving my life in more than one way.
I am most thankful for the simple glimpses of heaven that I see and experience every day…..the sunshine’s warmth on my face, my husband’s hand reaching to hold mine as we walk down down the street or through the mall, my daughter’s smiling face and voice on my computer video screen when she’s 3,000 miles away! I am thankful for the smile from the stranger, the door held open by a teenager, the simple act of forgiveness when someone is wrong, the tear shed during the Star-Spangled Banner, and the moment of pride and joy when my child emulates Christ-like character! I am thankful for warmth and shelter on a rainy day, a car that starts when I turn the key, and a family and friends that still love me even when I’m unlovable. But most important I’m thankful for the gift of eternal salvation, the hope of a home in heaven, and the confidence that nothing can touch me apart from the God who created me…and I’m thankful for Women of Faith who reminded me of the Joy in the Journey!
THANKS!
I am thankful for… all the seemingly simple things that occur throughout my day. It’s going out to my garden to water, and seeing a new beautiful open bud I didn’t notice the day before, trying my hand at a new recipe for a family gathering and nailing it - getting praise from all that tried it, or picking up the phone to leave a short message for a friend and end up talking for hours. And it’s especially getting to hear “I love you” unexpectidly from a wonderful loving man. These are my blessings from God, given specifically and intentionally for me - what seems to be ordinary is nothing short of extraordinary when I take the time to examine it for the gift it truly is!
I am thankful to our Faithful God. He is my rock and has healed our family in many ways. Our 23 year son, Daniel became addicted to cocaine approx. 18 months ago. This is the enemy’s playground and my son made some devastating decisions as a result of his drug use. I am thankful because today my son no longer uses drugs. We praise God for His redeeming love and amazing grace. Our son has been at Teen Challenge since July of 2007. Teen Challenge recovery is based on Jesus Christ. Their Bible verse is “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.” 2Cor. 5:17. Daniel’s plan is to complete his program in November and return to college in January. Whenever I tell about Daniel I also tell of God’s faithfulness to us and how He is our healer. My heart is full of thanksgiving and love to our Mighty God!
I am thankful everyday for the wonderful people in my life. I am thankful to the Lord for blessing me with ALL my children, especially the two precious babies he took home with Him before I felt it was there time to go. As a mother of two boys ages 19 months and 4 years old, I tend to get frustrated as we all do. Because of the immense pain and tragedy that I have already experienced I have an advantage over those who I hope will NEVER know that pain. I have the chance to step back and think that I am sooo very lucky for each and every moment that I have with my boys and that they could be gone without a moment’s notice. It’s His will, not mine. It’s what He wants, not me. I am able to go back to my boys with a renewed patience and faith knowing that it is in the Lord’s hands and He will never give me more than I can handle. I CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Phil. 4:13…Even when it feels like I can’t go on anymore. I hope that more people can share in that peace as time goes on. Thank you for all you do. Sincerely, Sarah Baldwin
I am thankful for my sobriety. I’m sober today because of God’s grace and His love for me. God’s taken what was a horrible existence and changed me into a women I had always dreamed of but never thought possible. I had done so many horrible things I didn’t think God could, or would ever love me. I know now God loves me and wants the very best for me and is with me every day to guide me through the days so I may better serve Him and my fellow man. I love the Lord with all my heart. I am eternally grateful.
In His Glory,
Kimberly
Home, health, happiness. Home was paid off 14 yr ago; at 62 my health and my husband’s is excellent; and I am SO happy to be in the care of a loving God, happy my husband is making giant leaps in his faith walk, happy our pensions are sufficient, our grandkids are close-by. Our needs, whatever they are, have been met aboundantly.
I am thankful for our youth…
A few weeks back I was in Target and spotted a perfect little Christmas ornament shaped like a little frame. Although it was not even October, I decided to purchase three of them to fill with my sons faces, and have them ready for a special Christmas gift. When I checked out, the young lady ( a teen ) admired the little frames and said she had something similar of her grandparents when they were younger. I could tell it was a fond memory for her. So, I shared with her that I would send them over to my husband who is serving overseas and won’t be home for Christmas. She was quiet for a moment and then she said the most heartfelt thank you to my husband and me. It brought tears to my eyes and it caught me so off guard to see such empathy and gratitude expressed by this wonderful young lady. Her thanks lifted me up more then she will ever know!
I am thankful for our story that shows God’s faithfulness. Two years ago, our youngest son was in prison. That was a time well used to turn his life around. In the two years since he got out (on the Friday after Thanksgiving), he has gotten a job, found a bride who had a daughter (instant granddaughter…….wow!), gone to school, gotten certified as a welder, got a better job and two raises, helped his wife’s daughter to excel in school, taught her about God, and just two days ago (5 days shy of their 1 year anniversary) became a Dad when his son was born. He has honored his family in so many ways and he has praised God through it all. So I am thankful that God works through all the chapters in our lives and our family has seen His hand in our lives.
I’m thankful that God has provided our family with more than we need… even though sometimes it feels like we need more than we have. Thank God for keeping our hearts humble and teaching us to look for him in the little things.
My husband had a heart attack last January that should have killed him (He waited 5 days to go to the doctor.). Instead of dying, he is almost completely normal now. In fact, he is healthier than before the attack. But there is something I am even more greatful for. He is a completely different person than he was a year ago. He has begun going to church for the first time in 30 years and has not missed a single week. Even better for me personally is that he has returned to being the man I fell in love with & married. (Due to some bad incidents he never shared with anyone, he had become distant, difficult, dishonest and even verbally abusive at times.) We had just made real progress in rescuing our relationships when the attack happened. I don’t want to think about what might have happened if we had not made this change in our relationship.
I am thankful for God’s patience with me as I deal with infertility. I know there are days when it is really hard for me to understand what He wants from me and why I must carry this particular cross, but I know he is with me every step of the way.
I am thankful for my mom. My mom has four children, all grown now. She has endured open heart surgery before anyone ever heard of it, a husband who controlled her and who was also an alcoholic, who died in 2006 of Alzheimer’s disease, breast cancer, two years of breast infections, and now, due to the radiation for the breast cancer and years of smoking, her lungs are shot. She has severe pulmonary hypertension and COPD. To top it off, her mitral valve is in need of repair again, but her lungs won’t support the operation. So I’m thankful for every day we can talk or spend together. God has given me the opportunity to work from home and I cared for my mom here for two years. She improved, moved into her own apt. and bravely tried to be independent so she wouldn’t “burden” me. She’s on full time oxygen and if she walks more than 5 steps she’s out of breath. It’s quite obvious she needs to return to my care. I have had several job opportunities come up, but God has kept me at home working. It’s what I love and now I’m in the position to care for my mom again. This time will be tougher…. she’s much worse and her spirit is waning. My mom is the most positive person I have met in my 54 years of life… she’s the life of the party and loves her children unconditionally. I can’t bear to think of life without my mom’s laughter and encouraging words. I just pray that God will hold me up emotionally and physically during the last days, months, years of her life.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to tell you about my beautiful mom, Helen June Murdoch.
In Christ’s Love,
Kathy Spellman
I am thankful for having found a church where I can fellowship
and feel such joy as to where I want Sundays to be everyday.
Having searched for many, many years for a place I can call home to feel the warmth and love waiting for me as soon as I step
in the door. Jesus is with me always and in this special place
call church, with fellow brothers and sisters, praising and worshipping Him, is beyond words.
I am thankful for oh so many things. I have my son. I have my health. I have a home,food, clothing. I live in America, and have freedom. I am thankful for our president. I am thankful I had the parents, and extended family I have. I am thankful for my faith. I am thankful for my ability to live a medium income lifestyle. I am thankful I have a college degree, and a good job. I am thankful I got to be married to a wonderful man, before he died. i am thankful I have choices. I am thankful I got to go to th Women of Faith event. I am thankful I live in Colorado. I am thankful God gave me a smart brain. I am thankful I have a car. I am thankful I have amenities. I am thankful God keeps me and my family safe. I am thankful I got to be with mom before she died. I am thankful I have clean water.I am thankful I can read, write, and do math.I am thankful for the beauty of the world we live in, such as the sunrise and sunset, mountains, oceans, rivers, stars, the clouds, rainbows, rain, snow, flowers, and butterflies, and animals. I am thankful for technology. I am thankful for birthdays, Christmas, Easter, and vacations. i am thankful for music. I know there are so many more things I am thankful for but I can’t think of everything for now.
I am thankful that when I missed the conference in D.C. on July 11th and 12th, to return to Alabama when my mother had a heart attack, that I was not coming “home” to take her off life support to die. That I was able to spend another two and a half months with her at the hospital. She passed away on September 28th, 2008, but she knows we all loved her and she was able to tell us one more time that she loved us also. As sad as I was to miss the Women of Faith Conference, I was blessed to see my mother open her eyes. God had a purpose for me that weekend. I will try to get tickets to the 2009 Conference in Atlanta.
I am thankful for the times I am blessed to see the obvious hand of God at work in my life. Many times we know God is working but we’re not really sure how. It’s that hind sight’s 20/20 thing. Then there are times it is obvious that God is in complete control. Three weeks ago my mother had a heart attack (she lives alone), she had a psudo aneurysm from the balloon they put in her that required surgery, her kitchen flooded, since she recently returned to work from retiring a year ago(worked three weeks when she had her heart attack) she did not qualify for short term dissability leaving her without an income for the next six weeks. God’s hand has been at work during my mother’s journey over the last three weeks. She was visiting her sister in Albuquerque NM shen she had her heart attack, where facilities are better and she was with someone to take her to the hospital. The surgery was successful and healed fine. Her kitchen sustained little damage. Since she paid into the “sick bank” out of her first pay check and since she had worked for the school system for several years before retiring they approved her to withdraw from the sick bank so she will have her full income while she is out of work due to doctor’s orders. What obvious answers to our prayers God blessed us with. I am thankful for my mother’s faith. Through all of this she has said over and over how she knew God would take care of her. Her faith has been a great example and testimony to me as well as so many of her friends.
the ability to….
smell fresh coffee as it brews first thing in the morning….
taste my bowl of warm oatmeal spiced with cinnamon and nuts…
feel the cool early morning breeze on my face as I read my devotion on my patio…
hear the chirping of birds as they come awake at the break of dawn….
see the red cardinal that lights on the bird feeder to share breakfast time with me.
I am thankful for all my senses…what a wonderful blessing!
In these last few days I have been really thinking about where my security truely lies. I am so thankful that I have a heavenly Father who watches over me. No matter what happens here - the economy, the war, the elections. I know that I know that I know God is in Control. Praise His Holy Name !!!
I am thankful that I belong to Jesus Christ. A short time ago, I journaled my “faith journey”. What an incredible revival tool! I was seeing in black-and-white all the times He had protected me and provided for me. I was overcome with thankfulness, but also with remorse. So many times I had taken His protection and provision for granted. It’s just something that’s always there, isn’t it?! Thankfulness for the sacrifice made on my behalf by God and His only Son, will definitely color my holidays.
My Husband has been sick for the past year and just 2 weeks ago got diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. It was bitter sweet news because we had anticipated an answer to his illness for a year and yet the answer to prayer has changed his… well our lives forever. We have 3 children and sometimes they don’t understand why Daddy can play with them one day and he can’t the next. So with that said this is my quote: ” I am thankful that God is there even through all the crud in life”. Thanks for letting me share.
meg
I am thank for a Mother and Father who taught me about the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. I lost my Father when I was in my early teens due to (a nervous breakdowm) metal illness. My Mother hung in there for a lot of rough years. You see my mother was a very strong women and even stronger in her faith of Jesus Christ. She too had parents that taught her and her sibiling about Jesus and the forgivenss He gives, and how you love your neighbors and that neighbor starts with the ones you live with. A love that only Jesus can give. In that love is strenght for the journey, The Holy Word for wisdom when you have to answer the hard questions or make that dissicusion you don’t want to, Healing for your spirit, mind, body when you faced the very things you ran from. Then you hear a soft voice say it is ok my child, its ok I am still here, I’m still here with arms opened wide. I am so very thankful for a generation of parents that shared Jesus Christ.
I am thankful that God gave me a second chance to live life as He intended me to. After my father died, I was a mess. I mostly kept it inside so I could let my mom and siblings grieve on me. A week after he died, I cried like I’ve never cried in my whole life. I sobbed and silently screamed in my pillow(it was about 3:00 am). And in the middle of my breakdown…I felt a calmness I have never felt in my life. Peace. I remembered what my sister had told me, so although I did not have the words memorized, I asked God for forgiveness for all my sins and my wicked, wicked ways. I called Him my Savior and to enter my heart. He did.
I am thankful for all I see in the world - what He has given us. For what I hear, taste and smell and feel. Especially, I thank Him for being able to hold my husband; hug and kiss my mom; embrace my siblings; touch my friends hearts; and hold my niece and nephews hands. Everthing is new - every day. Thank you, Lord. Without what you have given me - a new life, I would never be on the path to the truth-to You! Amen.
Your child, Christine
I am thankful for Women of Faith coming along every August to Dallas. I always seem to need just what they are offering. A weekend of hope, laughter, tears, encouragement, fellowship with good friends, high energy attitudes, wonderful worship, an autograph, a chance to meet and chat with one of the WOF team, good music, soul searching, and making new friends from other churches.
Thank you for the past 5 years that my daughter and I have attended and made it a memorable mother-daughter weekend. I pray for many more years of Women of Faith in August in Dallas.
Hi, Although in my life I have been a victim of child abuse, rape, theft, and other disappointments, I had never turned to Christ for healing of my life during those trying times. I have used many things of the world such as: compulsive shopping even while incurring major debt, traditional therapy, other religious techniques, and lesbianism, to stop the inner ache and emptiness that would never go away. I was very driven by worldly values like a success and happiness through performing well in a high-powered career. But my life in the past two years has taken me away from those things and has brought me into a relationship with Christ. My emptiness and ache is finally filled up with a sense of peace, serenity, and purpose. At the age of 27, I was dealt a serious blow to my health and to my career. While on medical leave from my management position, I was diagnosed with Lupus (SLE) in Dec. 2006. Lupus is a disease of inflammation that effects all areas of the body. My symptoms were severe joint and muscle pain, chronic fatigue, and a general sense of malaise. I was very ill, using multiple medication pain killers without relief, in a wheelchair or using a walker to get around the house. Just getting to the bathroom from the bed was excruciatingly painful. I couldn’t do anything I enjoyed doing: reading a book or cooking, for example, was out of the question. There was no reason I should have been alive because the lack of medical care I had been receiving up to that point. I left the Sierra Nevada Mountains to live with my father in sunny Southern California to have access to more readily available and knowledgeable health care. Once in Southern California, I was accepted as a new patient of the best rheumatologist in San Diego County, who I found out of the phone book. I don’t think that was coincidence! In January 2007, I found a local church because I was so grateful I was alive and started to feel the pull of Jesus on my heart. January 2007 was also the time of my break up with my fiance of 2 years. He couldn’t handle the stress of my health change and my move to Southern California. I ended up missing him, of course, but continued in attending church, bible study, and taking community college classes once my health stabilized enough for me to do so. At that time I really wanted to get my old life back, so I found a job a few months later. It was not a good fit for my skill set or my health. I was fired three months later. A week later I totaled my newer car. At this time, I was unsure what I was doing in Southern California. I was unemployed with ill health and without transportation, living with my Dad, just feeling really down about life. During that month, I received a severance check from the same company that fired me for triple my monthly salary at that time, which is unheard of for short-term and fired employee to receive. And I also received an insurance settlement for more than I had paid for my vehicle. I was then able to survive financially until I decided my new step, pay off the totaled car’s loan, and to lease a new vehicle. As my health continued to decline, I decided to apply for Social Security Disability. I was told by my Doctor that I would most likely not be approved for the Federal program. I was also receiving California State temporary disability. I continued to pray and to know inside that it was God’s plan, not the worlds’ plan. I had faith that what was going to happen was his plan for me, and that it would be good. Since last summer, I have been approved for Federal Disability, received enough money to settle my debts, & have continued to receive California state temporary disability on top of it! It’s interesting how the worse situations can actually be used for good, we just have believe in God’s plan. I feel such peace, even when I have my bad health days. I have an absolute sense of God’s presence in my life. I look at life differently now. I have excellent health care and insurance that I can afford. As to financial stability, I am making more on disability than I was making in my full time position when I was working. I have been able to restore my relationship with my father, who was not a solid presence for me in my childhood or teenage years. I am closer to my family that I had not been close to in over 10 years. I have been able to eliminate years of credit card debt. I have a sweet, little dog full of joy, love, and happiness that is sleeping on my leg as I type this. I have close, caring friends, and a new boyfriend in my life. I have found my faith in my every day existence, each day being exactly what God wants it to be for me. He is my strength and my comforter. I have had a release from my former life dreams that were from the world’s influences. I am finally just being a blessing to others while being the person God wants me to me. I am so grateful every day for God’s unending, magnificent love and grace for me. All of these blessings and my healing have been brought to me by God, not by any other force. I am so glad I have found Christ, and I dedicate my life to him, believing in his good plan for me. My new defining statement is this: To be a blessing, and not a success. I am glad I had the chance to attend a Women of Faith conference I attended in Anaheim Ca in September 2008. It was a lovely and inspiring invent. I am looking forward to my partnership as a member of Women of Faith. Thank you for reading this testimony. My Best, - Sara Worth
I am thankful for God moving my mom to Texas to live by me. When I was 17 years old my mother moved back to her home town in North Carolina. For 26 years I lived up north, and she lived down south. Sometimes I didn’t get to see her for years. Circumstances changed and my sister wanted mom to go into a nursing home, but I offered to let her come live with me. For nine months she lived with me, and then she had to go into a nursing facility. For the last two years, God has allowed my mom and I to reconnect. Mom is now terminally ill, and I am forever grateful to God for doing the unexpected and moving her to live by me.
I am most thankful for my God and His inifinate mercies. One of my terasured scriptures in the bible is Lamentations 3: 22-23 where we are reminded that God’s mercies are new each day. What a wonderful way to start each new day. God has blessed me with a wonderful church family and a wonderful new job that has given me a special oppertunity to give the gift of love He has placed in my heart. As I’m now in my 60’s my life is begining anew with the most wonderful blessings God has placed before me, and until He calls me home I feel His work in my life will never slow down. My deram to go to Africa might not ever happen, but I have just had the most incrediable oppertunity to help bring a small part of Africa to my home church, my place of employment and it is all because of God’s work and infinate wisdom that this will happen. Praise be to God for His unendung mercies everyday.
Blessings and Love…….Peggy Wilson
Sorry for the spelling!!!!!
I’m thankful that Jesus Christ brought me salvation and lives in me through the power of the Holy Spirit. That means any area of my life that needs saved His great power is at work strengthening me and completely renewing my life. Praise the Lord for His unending love and grace!
I have just celebrated my one year anniversary of being free of breast cancer. I was diagnosed last October and the next six months were difficult ones. They included surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and the usual side effcts that go with the treatment. I am getting back on my feet witht the help of the Lord. He has been my strength and my peace through this journey.
Also six months before my diagnoses, my grand daughter was born. She was 15 weeks early and weighed only 1.8 pounds. Three months of hospitilazation, ventilators, surgery and on and on. Today she is a healthy 18 month old. The joy of my life. And all because God watched over her and made her the miracle she is today!!
To God Be The Glory For Great Things He has Done!!!
I’m most thankful for the way my Lord faithfully blesses my family in the most mundane aspects of life. Every morning, we awaken to a day that can be used to glorify God. Our physical needs are always met, and frequently our wants are granted as well. God cares about every little aspect of our lives, from my children’s school worries to our health needs. I am so thankful that, no matter what, God is involved in my life on every level.
I’m Thankful for the strenght that God gives me to endure these difficult times. Just divorced for the second time and left with lots of debt and lonely, with all my family still living overseas. There are many days when my dispair takes over and feel this is the end, then he presents me with small and simple things in life as a reminder that after all i’m still alive, healthly and have a job. My tears are those of forgiveness and joy at the same time as I know he is still looking after me….and then hope takes over and just wish I can still be reunited with my mom before she dies. Oh God, I’m so thankful that you are MY God.
I am so very thankful to God for my church and my small group. I moved out of state for the first time a little over a year ago - with no kids. I was a single mom with 3 adult kids and 6 grandkids - and I was enabling 2 of them with their kids. God brought me here for a job - and no kids. He led me to Harvest Bible Chapel North Indy - and the best small group of 4 ladies and He has so-o grown me in my faith. I’m now being mentored/discipled, live with the “bestest” roommate (a fellow single mom with adult kids) and a job that is constantly challenging me in my walk with the Lord. Praise God from Whom ALL Blessings Flow!
I am thankful for the morning hours when I wake up and have my talks with God. Everyone should have their quiet times with Him. My favorite time is in the morning before I start my day. I then enjoy waking my son up and spending time with him before school. I work second shift so I look forward to this special time in the morning. When he gets on the bus I say the prayers on the Mom’s In Touch card I received from the Philadelphia Tour. I then feel confident that God is watching over my son until I see him the next morning. Thank you for letting me share!
Glory to God,
Brenda
I’m Thankful for the blessings God has given to me in the form of the church He lead me to with the help of two small children Seven years ago. It’s amazing when I look back on it all how He used two of His children. Not only did He use two children but Two of His best because He knew what I would need for the journey I would be traveling. With all the pain I’ve been so bless by His surrounding me with His choosen ones. What a Gift He has given to me. I can truly say when He says to us He will never leave us He means it. To this day His knows how to bring a smile to my face and I know it’s all from Him. Love you My Father
Thank you Women of Faith!
I am thankful for the adversity in my life. Through this adversity I found His glory and grew closer to God’s Word and Work. As difficult as the journey has been the growth and sense of peace is insurmountable. I am thankful to have come through the fire unscathed with the ability to heal and thrive. I am thankful to have a new awareness of wonderful people in my life and for the relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ.
First and foremost, I am thankful for Jesus Christ–for his *Infinite Grace* and mercy. I am thankful for the son and husband with whom God has blessed me, for my church and the amazing teaching and brothers and sisters in Christ with whom I fellowship. I am grateful for God’s healing touch–spiritually, emotionally and physically. Though I have several health challenges to contend with, I am never without hope or the knowledge that I am still so very blessed. And I am thankful for my precious dog, Jasper, an adorable beagle that is full of personally and makes my heart smile. Such simple pleasures….
The Lord has blessed me with knowing everyday is a good day, when I can get up and breathe in the Spirit of the living God. I am Thankful that he gave me many more second chances in life and I have the opportunity to do all the God Jobs I can possibly handle. I have had 3 strokes and survived a Lung removal from Cancer. I am full of energy and live a positive life through Church, prayer and good healthy surroundings. The Lord. My husband, my children and grand children are my greatest loves and will keep me full of life until the day I go home. I am especially Greatful and Thankful to the Women of Faith for helping me in this endevor of Truly knowing my Faith in God is Strong.
I am thankful for God’s Word and His Holy Spirit! I do not have the time, energy, or intellect to fully express the depths of which God’s Word/Spirit has effected my life. But I will give you a glance at what I am trying to convey.
I have been transformed from the inside out
I am able to renew myself daily
There is light in darkness
There is healing from a broken past
There has been comfort in difficult times
I am constantly growing
I can still stand up after I stumble
There is answers instead of confusion
There is freedom
He gives me courage that is not my own
I am fully alive
For all these things, and more, I am thankful.
I’m thankful that no matter what I’m able to go to the Lord for anything, knowing he loves and forgives me.
I am thankful for freedom-in our country & freedom in Christ! We are so richly blessed in America. We need to remember that this Thanksgiving season. We have the freedom to worship & be all we want to be. I am so very thankful for my family: my amazing husband of 9 1/2 years, Randy, my daughter, Madison, 6 years old and my son, Jackson, 2 years old. I am also thankful for my family who all live close by so my kids can grow up with grandparents. I am thankful for being a stay-at-home mom & home school mom. It is such a joy to speak truth into a little life! I am thankful for Women Of Faith & how they spoke to my friends & I at the last conference. Several of my friends really “got” the message of Grace & are now working on some long time addictions. I am thankful for my friends lives.
I am soooo thankful for God placing other christian women in my path. Because of Gods grace, I have a group of Sisters in my life that are most remarkable in all areas of their Faith. We have formed as a group to teach, encourage and lead others in our church and community. Where one of us might be weak the other will be strong. Since God has directed us into this ministry we have seen lives changed from bitter to sweet, from no life to full of life, from discouraged at things of this world to encouraged by Gods people working together to make a difference in the life of others. I wake up every morning now with great expectations of where is God taking me today and for what purpose will I serve. Thank you for allowing me to share this with others that I may not ever come in contact with and to say God does have a purpose in your life and you can make a difference but only if you allow God to lead.
My husband of 33 years left me 3 year ago. It has been tough to accept this and the divorce should be final before the new year. I am thankful because of the people God has placed in my life to hold me, to weep with me, to encourage me, to laugh with me and to pray with me. Throughout these past 3 years my 4 “angels” and numerous other “ministers” and been the hands and feet of God for me. I am blessed!
As a 27 year old with Cystic Fibrosis, I am so thankful for all the amazing people God has blessed me with. For my husband who told me when we were engaged that whether we had 5 years or 50 years together it would be worth it. (We have now been married 6 years!) For my 2 year old son who came after 2 years of trying to get pregnant and me finally learning to rest in the words of Philippians 4:6-7. For my family and friends who have been sources of never ending encouragement, joy and support. Finally, for each breath God grants me to live and cherish the blessings he has given! Blessed be His name!
I am thankful for a Heavenly Father who, in His still, small voice, reaffirms that He is always near us and loves us unconditionally. He showed this to me after I had a terrible nightmare that could have shaken my faith. I got up and started praying (Talking with God) and understood that the dream was from the Enemy, who meant to scare me into doubting God. Well, the most wonderful, calming peace came over me when I gave the fear to God and He whispered in my ear as He wrapped His arms around me and said, “I am here, you are mine. I will protect you and help you through whatever crisis comes.” Thank you, dear Heavenly Father for your love and guidance!
This last year, I lost my high profile job as an Editor of a statewide magazine for nurses. I also served in the role of Public Information Specialist. I did not understand why God would put me and my family through this, but the lessons that I have learned and the wisdom I have been blessed with are the reason. God has slowed my life down enough to allow me to clearly learn how to be a better mother to my son and a better wife to my husband. I always had fear of failure and it has hindered me for years- God has allowed me to overcome failure and see things through his eyes. I am not afraid to speak out about my faith, to start writing that book that I have been put off writing for years due to my fears and to open myself up to others and allow those blessings to flow into my life. I have enjoyed the rainy days and the sunny days, expecting that God has me in his arms through every peak and valley of this life we have been blessed with. I have found joy in the small things again and have been grateful for my basic needs. The humility that I have gained by having materialistically much and it being taken away has left me naked and vulernable to God. I am thankful for his love, his patience and for him providing for my needs. I am thankful for his overflowing love and grace in my life and I am not afraid to speak out verbally or in writing to tell everyone that crosses my path, that there is hope and it comes from a very loving, heavenly father that is there for us if we allow him to be.
I am thankful for Jesus Christ who saved my only son twice. First he saved him from a physical death at 12 months old with menningitis and then he saved him from a spiritual death at the age of 12 showing him the way to eternal life. I am thankful for his friend who cared enough to invite him to a youth group camp. Jesus had bigger plans for my son. His new pastor visited us and through God’s saving grace my husband and I were both saved that glorious winter snowy night in January. My son went on to show Christ’s love to his friends and people he didn’t even know. This is God’s command. To love one another as he loved you.
My son is now 34, married for 10 years to an unsaved person, no children and they have come on to some rough times but we continue to pray for her that God will show her that through Him alone is her salvation and will give our son the strength and guidance to step out and help her along the way. We continue to this day to be faithful to our Lord and he has blessed us in so many ways, in the good times and the bad. He is in total control of our lives and we know that what ever God has planned for us that if we keep looking up to him and not to the world he will take care of our needs and will take care of all of us who love him.
I am thankful for at the age of 53 I am a 17yr breast cancer survivor.I am thankful to God for the many blessings he have given me and will continue to give as long as I am obedient to his word and his will.I thankful for being rich not by money but a spiritual richness that know man can give or take away.I am thankful for the love of family and friends. I am thankful for Who God chose to be my mother though she is not with me in body she will alway’s be with me in spirit as will my eldest brother
I know my mother and him are with my God now.I am thankful for you WOMEN of FAITH for being a blessing to me and I my prayer is that will continue to bless all of you because you have been a blessing to many.I am thankful to God the Father,God the Son,and God the Holy Spirit for just loving me for me and for walking,talking with me.I am thankful that God has allowed me to have a personal relationship with him.
I am thankful for all the obvious things, but a few others that give me pause are sunrises that peak over the mountain behind my house, flowers that stretch to the sky waving at me on my most stressful days, birds that sing their songs of joy and exhibit grace in their flight, children laughing at my latest folly, a husband that still looks at me with the love and devotion of our youth, and a beautiful sunset as splendidly displayed from my front porch. God knows just how to bless me every time I need it! I am most thankful for all of His provisions!
I am thankfull for having been able to attend a Women of Faith Conference a couple of years ago, and given the chance to hear Patsy talk. She hit a note with me that described my life a few years ago to a T. While listening to her she told of a time that her life was like a big ball of yarn all tangled up. Well when I graduated high school and started college I had suffered a nervious break down and required hospitalization. While in the hospital getting better my Mother brought me an afgan to make for myself. Try as I might I never got the patteren right, even with the help of the floor nurse. She was so kind. I never gave up and it looked like a tangled mess. I still used the afgan after going home. After listening to Patsy I grew to love her and her funny ways of telling a story.
I am thankful for ” life “. My husband has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 6 weeks ago; at the same time my mother passed away the weekend that I was to attend the Women of Faith Conference. God has blessed me so much in to take each day as it was our last. I am so thankful to have a husband that is my best friend; and as long as he is alive I know we can cherish these last days; and when he goes home to be with Jesus; I will look forward of seeing him again. My outlook on life has changed and has shown me how much others mean to me and that my life in nothing without Christ.
I found out just how much people really love me; I got to attend the Conference in Atlanta, Georgia and then my brother-in-law bought me a plane ticket to fly to my mother’s viewing and funeral. God is so Good!
I am so thankful for being in the Lord’s grace all the time. I am also thankful for reading everyone’s thankfulness. This is such an encouragement and blessing for me. I really know God is with me because He helps me through difficult situations like the loss of my mom to cancer. I now see his hand and this has helped me through even the trying times. Thank you everyone, for sharing what was on your heart!!!!!!!!!
I have so many things to be thankful for. By far the most meaningful gifts God has given to me are the ones I have learned over the past four years. These lessons have completely changed things inside me that really needed some work and I am most grateful. Four years ago, I was in a 33 year marriage with three wonderful daughters. My husband and I got married really young and I worked to put him through 8 years of schooling to become a Tax Attorney. He started a practice in our home town after graduating. The firm has always done a very lucrative business and everyone in our community looked up to us thinking we had the perfect family, the perfect life. I was thankful for all that God had bestowed on us but I was living in a fairytale world. As long as I kept my blinders on, I could drift through life thinking I was so fortunate to have my prince and my three cherub cheeked little angels. Life was truly easy for me. I was a stay at home mom and was extremely involved in my daughter’s lives. They have all three graduated from college and have never been involved with drugs. My husband was always off working or fishing, so that means….I did a wonderful job in raising my kids. In 2004, God opened up my world to show me the truth. My husband had been having affairs since the year we were married until God rescued me. In order to rescue me, he had to show me some pretty diffcult things to swallow. Not only was my husband having these affairs, but he had become addicted to crack cocaine. Of course, I thought I could save him and get him help. Before that happened, he became a very “mean” man and I was terrified to be in the house alone with him. My daughters were all off at college. I was too scared to leave. I had never lived by myself or been on my own. It got so bad, two of my daughters drove from college in the middle of the night, pulled me out and told me that was enough. I stayed with them in their apartment. I could not understand why God was letting this happen in my life. God was preparing me to be able to meet the challenges I was about to encounter. I meet everything head on now with no fear. I know God is not going to let me fall, it’s only God building my character and strength and teaching me to rely on him. God united me with my best friend from elementary school last year. She invited me to the San Antonio Women of Faith conference. We had a life changing experience. I visited her again two months ago, in August. Her older sister was visiting her as well. Her sister starting having seizures while there and was taken to the hospital. They found she had five tumors in her brain. Her sister, Sue, had just retired and moved to Zephyrhills, Florida in March with her husband. I live in Orlando which is 1 hour traveling time to Sue. My friend Amy, flew to Florida and we both went to Sue’s house to help her. Within one week, she was in a coma and within five weeks, God had taken her home. God is awesome. He orchestrated this whole thing over the past year so I could be there when my friend, Amy, needed me the most. God has blessed me over and over. At this moment, I am studying the book of Job. I can relate to Job in many ways. Now, when God allows things to happen in my life, I am actually thankful and cannot wait to see what I will learn from the experience. Without God, I could not have endured the many things that come with a divorce, a drug addicted unfaithful husband, living in peace without being fearful of every little thing that happens. I have a love and appreciation for God now that I never had before. Thank you God for always being there with me and for showing me your love in so many ways.
i am thankful i have my health, and a job that i love my family and friends , in a tough world we all try to stand together and pray
I am thankful for the life I live today. A Year and a half ago I was in an abusive relationship and suffered from severe depression and anxiety to the point where I had to force myself to get out of bed every morning. I always remembered the saying that God never puts more on our plate than he thinks we can handle.
Now I have a man who loves and adores me and believes in God as much as I do, a job I love to do that helps people on a daily basis and a very supportive family. I never thought I would be so happy, and I am forever thankful to God for watching out for me.
I attended the Women of Faith this year here in Indianapolis. This was my first time to attend the conference. “Wow”.
My friend Patty whom I use to work with has coordinated a group to attend for a few years now. I remember in the past that she would ask me to attend, but could not as I work fulltime and my husband was a fulltime childrens pastor and I used all my time off work for meetings, conferences and activities.
Last year we got a new senior pastor from out of state who hired his friend and asked my husband to resign because they were going a different direction. I know its best because we have different styles of ministry, but it sure has been hurtful, and a real financial struggle.
As I was driving to work on a Monday morning, I heard that Women of Faith was coming to Indianapolis. I said “Lord, I would love to go to that conference”. I knew there was no way financially that I could go. That next day Tuesday, I had lunch with Patty whom I had not seen for about a year or so. She talked the conference and how much she was looking forward to it. I didn’t say much but inside I was thinking how badly I wanted to go. A couple days later, I received a call from Patty saying one of the ladies had to cancel, and that she wanted to give me her ticket as a gift. She said if I didn’t go that she would loose money on the ticket. I knew then that God had given me that ticket. I did attend and “I loved it”. It was so refreshing. When one of the speakers said “God hasn’t forgotten you”, I felt as if she was looking directly into my eyes with her fingers pointed. I knew then, that’s why I was there.
I left the conference refreshed and so happy that I got to attend. I wanted to purchase the bag of books and join so bad, but knew I couldn’t due to a very tight budget. I know that God is going to see us through this trial. Once we get back on track, I plan on joining and I’m planning on attending next year’s conference here in Indianapolis.
Every speaker and singer was GREAT! I admire all of you and would like to thank you for allowing the Lord to use you to bless others.
God Bless all of those who have a part in all of your conferences. Alice Inskeep
I’m thankful for a loving God whose mercy and grace is greater than anything imagineable. A few short years ago I became homeless due to domestic violence. I survived the abuse and stayed in a homeless shelter in Seattle. While there I took classes and learned how to use a computer. I kind of fell in love with it, you might say. I went on to teach computer skills to Senior citizens and then I went on after that to help and teach other homeless ladies and kids. I now work full time in a shelter in california. Though some days are trying I love helping the ladies there. I never forget where I’ve been and I don’t put myself on a pedestal as I know that I can so easily wind up back living at a shelter again. I thank the Lord each day for helping me get the training to make something out of my life and to give back by doing something that I throughly enjoy. Nothing is impossible with God on your side!!
I’m thankful for my salvation. My friends accept me as a sister in the Lord now. I appreciate the families they come from and I respect mine, too. The people that I grew up with almost lost me to my addictive behavior. Now, they bring out the best in me, Praise the Lord! Health is most important and spiritual growth hadn’t happened until I became born again at middle age. I used to clean the Church and Convent, play classical piano music, be captain of the cheerleaders, and take the Sacraments. I began to run away for independence and now I run to Jesus Christ because I’m married to him. In and of myself my marriage to my husband would fail. I pray for our family to grow because we don’t have children.
I have so much to be thankful for.
My Mom is a godly woman, and wanted nothing more than for me to live a life honoring Him. I’m so thankful she introduced me to Women of Faith. We women have a place, a community where we can lift each other up, hold each other up (like Moses in the desert). I couldn’t imagine being in a place where we didn’t have the freedoms we do here!
I am also thankful for a godly husband. He loves me, AND makes me feel beautiful! He strives to make our home a godly one everyday.
I am more than blessed!
I have alot to be thankful for. One thing is the freedom to worshipand praise God in freedom, able to pray in public without being tortured or made fun of. I have 4 healthy children and their spouses, 11 grandchildren who are healthy. My health is good. I have a christain family.
I am so thankful for my loving family and Christian friends! We are having our 5th baby and we have been blessed through every trial that has come our way. I couldn’t imagine getting through this year without God and our blessings. I am fortunate enough to get to go to the Conference in November in my town and I thank God every day for his love and mercy!!!
I am very thankful that the Women of Faith website has the conference locations for next year. I had such a wonderful time this year I can choose a different location and start saving my $$ for next year because I know that that is one of the best weekends ever! Thank you to all the “women on the porch” for making me pray, cry and laugh so hard.
I am most thankful for God’s unconditional love, manifested through His amazing grace. When I listen to the words from the hymn (Amazing Grace), the Holy Spirit fills my heart with uncontainable joy. I cannot hold back the tears — truly my cup (certainly my eyes) overfloweth. In a world filled with greed — for wealth, for power, for popularity, how comforting to know that we don’t have to “be” anything to find favor with God. He just wants us to “be”. Not hard to imagine, when you consider that He is the Great I Am. His infinite grace has no “strings attached”. There are no legal “disclosure statements”, supplies are not limited to the first 200 people and there is no expiration date. Jesus paid an incredible price so that each of us could establish a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. Through Him, we know that God works all things for good, that we can find joy in any circumstance. Our strength does not come from our own, incredibly weak resources. Our strength comes from the Lord. We have His promise, “I will never leave you, nor never foresake you”. To know God is with me, whatever my circumstance — that is joy beyond anything this world can offer. For that, I am most thankful.
I am so very thankful for the love of God. The agapes kind of love that only God can give. I have been a saved since I was 12 but I haven’t full understood all the love and meaning that is behind the word saved, until recently and I am now 45. I guess I been a slow learner. Everyday God show himself to me in new ways. I desire each day is to know him better. I realize that God’s love me for me. Yes, he wants me to live a God pleasing life, But even if I do not he is still all forgiving and understand and just waiting for me to see my mistakes. I love the way he gentle tells me sometimes I know he has a sense of humor by the way he tells me for it makes me laugh I am sure he is laughing with me. I know no one could ever love me like he does. I am so very thankful he does. I could write a book on all the ways he shows me.
I am thankful for the wonderful ways in which God works! He is AMAZING! A couple years ago, I stumbled upon a lovely little tea shop. I spoke with the owner *Mary the few times I was there. I had her cater a tea at our work on one occasion and she always did such a lovely job! What I did not know was that Mary’s husband *Jim was dying of cancer and she was working very hard to make sure they had what was needed for their family which includes 2 teenage girls, *Julia & *Monica.
This last spring, my administrative assistant received a promotion and I was having a party to send her off. So, I called Mary to provide some of her outstanding shortbreads for the occasion. I had interviewed 7 folks to replace my administrative assistant…to no avail. Just not the right fit! Then Mary comes and delivers the shortbreads and tells me about her struggles and that she is going to have to go back to work…and she had previously worked as an executive assistant for a very large company, but it was too far now with the girls and their needs now that Jim was gone. I sat in amazement as I realized that God had wanted me to be patient. He was bringing Mary to me…a lovely Christian woman!
We interviewed her and the decision was whole-heartedly endorsed! Mary was now an employee! Mary had good help for her tea shop and was confident she could do both, but now with a steady pay check and health benefits she so desparately needed for her family.
As I got to know Mary, I learned how the loss of Jim had so deeply affected her and her girls. Her oldest daughter Julia, was really struggling. Julia had been so close with her father. They were all Christians, but had not been fellowshiping with the Lord or attending church.
I asked if she knew of Women of Faith. She did not. I shared a bit about it and asked if she would go with her girls if I would provide her tickets. She wasn’t sure at first, but then later said she would try really hard for them all to attend. That was all she needed to say to me. I bought the tickets. Mary was a bit unsure if the girls would actually get up and go with her. They were a little late and did have to leave a little early from the conference, but they were all 3 renewed, refreshed and refilled from the work of your conference! God is doing a marvelous thing with them!
This is what they wrote to me! “Thank you for the WOF tickets. It was great to get the opportunity to spend time together as a family. It was something that we all truly enjoyed. The performers were not only inspirational, but also very funny and made us all laugh. Thanks again. It is and experience I will always remember. Love-Julia” “Thank you very much for the concert tickets. I thought that the concert was very fun and the dancers were really exciting! it was great to be able to share that time with my family. I had such a great time that I hope I can go again next year! Thank you! Love-Monica” “The gift of the tickets continues to ripple~like a stone thrown into still water. What a blessing to not only attend such a wonderful event of faith sharing with my daughters, but to also feel the joy we experienced together. After many dark days filled with pain, it was so joyful to see their faces so happy and glowing. We had a wonderful day together that will remain as a shining moment in my heart. Thank you for your ever giving kindness that you sharin in His name. Love & Hugs-Mary.”
WOW! So, being patient and waiting on Him. Knowing that through His plans and His timing, He will provide what we each need at just the right time! Hopefully you can see His blessings woven through this whole brief story!
I now have a friend who makes wonderful shortbread!
I now have an administrative assistant.
Mary has a job with pay and benefits.
Mary, Julia & Monica are more sealed together with HIM!!
*Mary, Jim, Julia & Monica are not the real names
I am Thankful to God for the parents that I was blessed with. These two wonderful people never argued or took each other for granted. They just showed my brother and I how to love unconditionally and to help whoever we could. Their example of what a parent should be was just what Jesus states we should be. Our Lord was also merciful to my parents when it was time for them to leave this earth. He took them with a loving and unsuffering way and that I am also thankful for. I have been a nurse for 33 years and I have seen how merciful our Lord can be and how percious our time is here on earth–so my goal while I’m here is to have people feel better walking away from me than when they first walked up to me.
At age 21, I gave birth to a daughter, (my third) who was born with Downs Syndrome. It was a devastating blow because in those days the preferred solution was to place the child in an institution where “it” would be cared for. They had taken Darsi away to the nursery while I “grieved” the tragedy that had just befallen me. It was at that moment that Mrs. Garcia the head nursery nurse, arrived on the scene packing a little pink bundle and a baby bottle. She thrust the baby into my arms and firmly planted the bottle on the night stand beside me. “This is YOUR baby” she announced. “YOU feed her.” And out the door she went. After unwrapping Darsi and looking her over it appeared she was not much different than the other two babies I had at home so my husband and I took her home from the hospital with us.
WE (adoptive father) and I have just finished moving Darsi into her own apartment a mile away from us. My husband has terminal cancer and the timeline remains in the LORD’s hands, but I am forever thankful to Mrs. Garcia who gambled that I would love that child of God as I did the others and that Darsi will be part of my support when God’s plan plays out in my life. We just returned from the WOF conference in Portland (an event that Darsi chooses not to miss if at all possible.)
I am thankful for God’s Grace. after praying for my husband for over 40 years to come to Christ, he has joined me in Community Bible Study for couples. He states proudly that he knows God ( after all he read the bible when he was in the six grade!)
this group of christen is loving him right where he is and he is so comfortable there he went by himself last week when i could not make it. I know God is working in his heart and is anwsering all my prayers. That we would be a couple for Christ. I know that he has great things planned for us. Can hardly wait to see what it is!
so those of you don’t give up.
God time table is just different then yours. 40 years seems like a long time to me, but is nothing when you think that we now get to spent enternity together!
I am thankful for the safe return of my husband from Iraq a few months ago. I’m also thankful for the divine protection that God has over our young men & women fighting to keep this country safe. Although there have been many losses throughout this time of war, for each and every heroic life lost there are thousands of soldiers still fighting and coming home safely. We can only thank God for that.
I am overwhelmingly thankful for the blessing of watching a friend grow in Christ, grow by leaps and bounds. A Beth Moore study “Breaking Free”, has been a vehicle to encourage both of us to be steadfast in Bible study, prayer, and accountability for each other. It’s a beautiful thing! Another thing I’m grateful for is seeing God light up the hearts (and faces) of sisters in Christ as we sing together in Praise Team at church. There are lots of beautiful things in this world God has given us, but right up there on the list is seeing the tears that flow when God touches our hearts with awareness of His love and what He has done for us.
I am so Thankful for the right to still be able to go to my church read my Bible and fellowship with other Christians. I am so very thankful for the little things that I take for granted. A place to live, food to eat, clothes to wear and some of the things I don’t really need but I totally enjoy. Photography is my way to get closer to Christ. I see in most of the pictures I take the fingerprints of God. I am so very thankful for my Daughters and my Grand Daughter who all live very close to me. Family is very important to me. I am also very thankful that I live in a Country where I am free. During the holidays I always pray for Our Soldiers Alive and Departed who are in Heaven and get to see Jesus. I am very thankful that I can work for Christ and help teach a Teenager Girls class at my church. I truly believe that the best thing to do with kids is get them involved in Church because let’s face it this word is very scary and I believe if they have a church base maybe they won’t be tempted by so many evil things of this world. I am also grateful for the fact that I can pray anytime night or day and I know that Jesus will hear my prayer. Just wanted to let you guys know I attended my First Women of Faith Conference this year and it truly touched my life. It was such an inspiration for me. I have alot of stress right now as I have been out of work since June and I needed that refreshment that that conference gave me. A friend bought my ticket and I am so greatful for her. She is such a special friend. Thank you so much for all the things you do at and for the Women of Faith Conference.
I suddenly lost my mother in May of this year. She was 64, very young, to have died. I have never been more devasitated by this sudden loss. I am very thankful to have had a mother like her. Everyone loved her. She never meet a stranger and was always giving to everyone. My mother was a christian. She still worked a full time time job in which that was her second family. As we come to learn this as her co-workers came to visit the hospital and funeral. She died from a brain bleed(caused by a hard fall or possibly massive stroke). We had to take her off life support after 3 days. I never knew how much love and support she gave me. My life will never be the same. I have missed he soooo much. I am very greatful for her and look forward to seeing her again. She has really brought God into my life moreso now than ever and I am thankful for that.
There are so many things in life that I am so thankful for but one that stands out always is that I thank God that my son Christopher is my son and that I am his Mom! He was born 33 years ago with down syndrome and a couple of other medical problems but that didn’t keep me from taking one look at him and falling in love with him! Ever since then he has been my one glimpse into how life should be. He accepts the good and the not so good with a wonderful attitude I wish I had. He is on dialysis now for 6 years without one complaint! How many so called normal people can say that? When he prays at church or at home, he prays from the heart, the way I sometimes forget to do. I am so thankful that God chose me to have Christopher. I cannot picture my life complete without him in it. When he sings in church on Sunday mornings, I know that God hears his voice above the others worshiping. He is not perfect but I always have to remember that… God does not make mistakes. Chris has down syndrome for a purpose and I am thankful he’s my son everyday!
That even girls like me get to go to Heaven thanks to the gift of our God.
I am thankful that God made and loved me, so that I would be where I am now. I am 32 with a roller coaster of baggage. The reason I am thankful, is that along the way, every experience I have had, has put one more grain of sand into my hourglass of life and who I will become. God trusts me enough to raise the most amazing child I could have imagined. My entire life he has been preparing me so that I would know and enjoy raising my 8 year-old son. On a daily basis, I hear, “I don’t know how you do it”, ” You must be exhausted”, “No one can raise this child”, etc…. I am awed, humbled, and amazed. My “baby” has chronic medical problems, mental health issues, cognitive issues, and a host of problems due to everything else. That being said, he teaches me the greatest love, the most creative thoughts, and having him in my life for the past 8 years has given me a job, a goal, a reason to fight back. No one wants my son, but he is the greatest gift God has given me. I understand this and truly feel blessed to have spent a moment with Austin in my corner. He may not be around as long as I would choose, but while he is, he has changed more lives than most do in a long life. So, I am thankful that God teaches me daily through the “total” experience of being a part of Austin’s life. With this gift, I try to help families grieve the loss of who they envisioned during that time in the womb, and to then fall in love with the gift you’ve been blessed with. This baby will far outway any of your dreams, as long as you dream and love the child you have. “He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also he has put eternity in their hears, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.” ~ Ecclesiastes 3:11,12
You folks are truly a blessing and inspiration, my Quilt Guild of Women turns 25 this year. Through stitchen, fellowship and friendship we share how to stitch up quilts and give back to our community with TeddyBears for fire police and hospitals, and baby quilts for first borns in local hospitals, all this through God’s grace that has kept us together.
hugs
Joanne
I am very thankful that out of 4 daughters 2 of them are strong christian women. They are wonderful sisters to the other 2 girls and I know that in Gods time they will come to know Him too! Even though the girls who are not believers do things that are wrong, the girls who are believers still show love, encouragement, and a strong sense of family. They both live their lives reflecting God’s grace and love. Its amazing how much the 2 who are not right with God look up to the 2 who are. I see God working every day in all their lives.
I am thankful for many things. Most of all I am thankful for my faith. I have trouble understanding how anyone could not believe when God’s love is so clear and all around. I look at my husband of almost 35 years, My two wonderful daughters, and my three grandchildren that I love with All My Heart. I look at the Blue sky, the Green grass, and the Colorful rainbows and flowers. Thank you God for loving us as we are.
God bless and bare with me on this one. Every since My husband has started taking Ministry classes I am the enemy. It’s like some demon has possessed him. At home he accuses me of all kinds of things and talks to me as if I am not human. It’s very, very harsh. I can do nothing right to him. At Church he does not make eye contact with me and he does not wear his wedding ring at all. Last he said it I did not do something about my snoring he would cut off my health insurance. When ever he feels like it he throws my clothes outside. He attends class and church and other functions and acts like he is a saint. I am prayerful he is a saint in the making and I am most thankful that I trust in the LORD with all my heart and lean not to my own understanding and in all my ways I acknowledge me and he is directing my path. I still pray for my husband everyday. I am so thankful that I can do that with love. I am also thank the it’s good to be healed but it’s better to be whole because whole people don’t need health insurance. Thank you JESUS.
I am SO thankful for my loving husband and two beautiful sons. My husband loves me through all the ups and downs of being a family with active young boys. He loves me when I don’t earn his love. Our sons teach me something new every day about love, patience, and understanding. I’m thankful for the unconditional love that only comes from family.
Love and Thanksgiving!
I am most thankful for God’s endless faithfulness to me and His never-ending forgiveness. When times are rough and temptation wins out He is ALWAYS there. And never with accusations or a “this is your last chance” attitude. When I am reminded that I have been redeemed (bought back) and that my Redeemer will always be there when I fall and will always welcome me back… that is overwhelming to me.
I am thankful for God’s never-ending love for His children, and the unstoppable work in my life. What a true friend we have in Jesus.
I grew up in church, knowing right from wrong, straying from Him by marrying a non-believer. During this time, I yearned for Christ, but never felt I could get Him back in my life due to the marriage I was in….well Praise the Lord, after all these years (over 25), my hubsand has come to Jesus and is attending church regularly with me.
It took my grown children making big mistakes to make me return to Him. I prayed that God’s will be done in my daughter’s life, and I turned it over to Him as I couldn’t stand the worry any longer. A week after turning it over to God, she was arrested. At that time, I thought I would die, but then remembered I had turned it over to God, and this was His intervention in her life. Praise you Jesus!
Although I grew up in a God-fearing home, I don’t recall ever asking my Dad to pray for me. The day my daughter was arrested, I called my Dad and told him I needed him to pray for his daughter. The first week she was in jail, I told my husband, “we need to pray for our daughter.” This was the first time I had ever prayed with my husband. What a powerful experience to face the adversity in your life and have peace knowing God has it all under control, and is working on lives through your trials and tribulations.
I have many things to be thankful for, but thank God for helping me in my day-to-day walk with Him. It is the most powerful experience, and one in which I am most grateful.
Thank you Women in Faith for changing my life - softening my heart, and reminding me that Jesus is the answer. Your works are powerful, and God is working through you in helping us in our day-to-day lives. Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross for our sins, and loving us unconditionally.
I am thankful for the Lord’s protection this past weekend as we traveled to Portland for the the Women of Faith Conference from Bend. As we arrived at the Lloyd Center Shopping area, we headed up to the food court and restrooms on a busy Friday night. I was the last one out of the bathroom and as I exited the hallway into the food court I hurried in front of a group of boys approaching and over to my friends who were waiting for me. As I turned around, I realized that group of boys I had just walked in front of were now pummeling another boy in the very hallway I had just come out of. As we saw a metal hammer lift and fall over the pile of people, not a sound was made. I noticed a girl with long hair in the scuffle and then as the pile lifted, a bald young man with blood pouring from his head wounds. I watched in horror as the others ran through the food court and the young victim picked himself up from the bloody floor, steadying himself with the help of the wall. As he made his way down the hallway into the restroom, I realized that if I had been two seconds later coming down that hallway, that I would have been involved in that beating. I thank God that His hand of protection was over me, that was 3 year-old son wasn’t with me and I prayed that God would heal those broken boys and girls. I thank God that I live in a town where this is not a common occurrence and that I can feel safe and guarded by God’s wonderful hands-He was certainly looking over me that day! As I process this event in my mind, I am saddened that we must live in a world where these things happen, but I am strengthened in knowing that in the end, WE WIN!!!
We have so much to be thankful for this year. Our 21 year old daughter, Jennifer, was involved in a flash fire while lighting a campfire this summer. She spent 8 days in the burn unit of Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas. She had second-degree burns on both arms from the elbows down and both legs from the knees down. The burns on her face were not as severe. We are so grateful for the first responders that treated her at the scene, the CareFlight helicopter that transported her to the hospital, and the fabulous hospital staff that cared for her and patiently taught me how to care for her at home. There were people all across the country praying for Jennifer and we were so blessed by the outpouring of kindness from family and friends. Miraculously, Jennifer was able to return to Baylor University for her senior year. She has months of recovery yet but can function on her own. It could have been so much worse but God was good and we felt His presence from the very first moment. This was not something we would have put on our calendar but we want to continue to share of God’s faithfulness to our family.
When I walk along the beach of Puget Sound, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves and the calls of the seagulls, my heart swells with thankfulness. Looking across the vast waters to the snow capped Olympic Mountains, thoughts swell in my soul, “God is an awesome artist. He is so big! He can handle any situation.” And then what comes to the surface is overwhelming amazement that God knows everything about me and He loves me! The thankful tears flow down my face and, I don’t care who is around, I have to raise my hands and Praise the LORD!!
I am thankful that God, as promised, watched over, guided and kept safe my son, Bradley, while he was in the war in Afghanistan for 15 months. It is a testament of faith and power of prayer. I’m reminded to “come close to God and he will come close to you.”
I am thankful that The Lord lead me to a prayer room at our Women of Faith Conference in Philadelphia. A woman prayed for my daughter in Houston, to please build a wall around her to protect her & she was protected. This same woman prayed that I would stop fighting against allowing the Lord into my life & I have. I am most grateful to truly begin this wonderful journey.
I don’t think there is the space to write all of the things that I am thankful for. So I am going to share just one of the many. In the summer of 2003, my sixteen year old daughter, Amy, was diagnosed with a malignant germ cell tumor that was completely involved with her left ovary. By the time she told us she was hurting, the tumor was the size of a soccer ball. After surgery to remove the tumor, she went through 5 months of intensive chemo treatments, “preventative measures” they said as they were sure the tumor was contained when they removed it. Her one concern was that she would be able to have a child and asked her doctors on a regular basis if this was still possible. Not only did God preserve the life of our child, but on Mothers Day this year our now 21 year old delivered a beautiful, HEALTHY baby girl named Kinzi. God has blessed us above and beyond what we are able to comprehend and all we can do is say Thank You.
I am thankful to God that his strength, guidance & love we brought our precious son home from Guatemala this time last year. After the emotional ups & downs, we brought our son home before they closed adoptions in Guatemala & he has been the most wonderful & incredible gift in our lives! God has also blessed us with more strength, guidance & direction & of course, love, as we start the process all over & bring another son or daughter home from Ethiopia! I am so thankful to God for the family & friends that he has put in our lives that given us incredible love & support through these processes!
I am thankful for an answered prayer. I had been praying to see through the eye of Jesus. One night while lying with my daughter, as I do every night, I was looking at her in all her peacefulness. Her breath was steady and I knew that she had fallen asleep, rather than getting up as I usually did, I was captivated by her serenity. I lay awhile longer, just watching her when it happened. He gave me His eyes, for a brief moment and I heard Him whisper to me “That is how I see you”. Right then I truly understood what it meant for me to be a child of God. It didn’t matter what happened that day: that I got angry and the person who cut me off, that I was short tempered with my kids, that I didn’t do my morning devotional, that the sink was still full of dishes. None of that mattered because of the Grace of God. I am His child, He watches me every night as I drift off to sleep and He falls in love with me over and over again, He is my proud Father!
Wow, what a powerful list of God’s faithfulness! I am thankful for so many of the above blessings, but I am excited to tell of God’s redemption in my life. I knew my husband had mental illness when we started dating, but I felt God told me that this was His man for me. Our marriage never lived up to expectations because of the ups and downs that he went through. Sadly, after about 12 years, he experienced a downhill slide in his psychological, spiritual, and physical condition. Although he had no history of violence whatsoever, he drowned our almost-14 month old son in the bathtub while on mega doses of antidepressants and neuroleptics. I miss my little boy sooooo much, but I have been amazed by the grace of God in our situation. He has held me up and provided for my family (we have 2 other sons) in every situation. Best of all, God has provided for my husband, too. Although he is serving a long sentence in prison, my husband is set free in the most important area–spiritually! He has been delivered and healed. He works diligently at his jobs and attends church and bible study faithfully. He is truly the man of God that I married, and his spiritual growth has been phenomenal. God is awesome!!! He does exceedingly more than we can even ask or think!
My oldest daughter and I have always had some underlying tension in our relationship. A couple of years ago it reached a point where she decided to cut me and her sister out of her life. This was painful for everyone, including her. I was so angry and so hurt I couldn’t imagine how we would ever reconnect, or even if I wanted to. The pain was intense and I really did not see how it could ever be healed. I was so hurt in fact I didn’t even pray for healing. Thankfully my husband did, daily. This year my daughter and I attended the Women Of Faith Conference together! It was such a joyful occassion. She had never been and I was thrilled to share it with her. The healing in our relationship is a miracle and I know it is from God’s Grace. I pray this healing will happen between my daughters and our family will be restored.
I am so thankful for my friends, who have become my family! I grew up in Ohio but moved to California when I was 25. Of course, growing up in one place your whole life, you develop relationships that can’t be mimicked anywhere else, so moving across the country to a place where you know no one, other than your husband, is very difficult -especially for a woman. I made friends fairly easy, but none were sister quality. Just good friends… and I prayed for YEARS for a best friend to substitute my best friend back home and fill the hole that was left in my heart. Fifteen years later, God answered my prayer, not with a best friend, but with 2 sisters, plus a HUGE family! God is good and very faithful!
I am thankful for the blessings that God gives us, this year has been a roller coaster ride for our family, we celebrate that our 8 year old nephew is 5 years cancer free, we celebrated milestone birthday’s this year 13,16,18,21,25,30,50,70, my parents celebrated 50 years of marriage. My 18 year old grandson went into the armed forces. My 25 year old niece lost her 21 week old unborn daughter. My Dad just had a heart attack 10/8/08 we thought he was going to have a bypass, but God had other plans. I went to WOF comference with 4 friends in Columbus Ohio 3 days before my knee replacement. I am thankful for family and freinds, God brings us through the darkest valleys, he provides strenght through prayers and hugs from your BFF’s, God provides a beautiful picture with the morning sunrise, the full harvest moon. His amazing grace is enough to be thankful for. but I thank God for his unconditional love. and that someone told me about God’s love for me!
I am thankful for having family to grieve with on the death of my dad, and my church for their support to me and my family. I am thankful for Women of Faith conferences as the ladies have never failed to talk about the things I am struggling with. I am thankful for God who has been with me this last year keeping me going with his love and comfort. I am thankful for my husband who helps keep me from curling up in a ball on the bed to sleep away the misery.
I am so thankful for God’s grace and love. I am reminded each day of that love when I look into the beautiful eyes of my daughter, Marina. She is the answer to many prayers of faithful friends who believed that God would grace our lives with a baby after 13 years of marriage and 3 miscarriages. God has given us (my husband and I) the strength to weather many storms… the desire for a baby and many job losses for my husband. Today, actually, my husband lost his job and we will continue to be faithful and look to Him for the courage to go on one day at a time. I know that even though we don’t have answers right now for what tomorrow will hold, we are thankful that God is in control!
I am thankful for so many friends and family that have rallied around my son, daughter and myself. My husband died over a year ago, and I am blessed by so many that continue to stand by us and support us in so many ways. God has truly blessed each of us during this time in our lives.
I’m very thankful for the Lord Jesus Christ for giving my husband a chance to live longer for whatever time He permits according to His will. This past June, 2008, he had a heart attack. He is 61 years old and is a Vietnam Veteran with diabetes. I have known my husband since I’ve met him when I was 16 yrs. old, and it did not look good at all when a 25 yr. old man is dating a 16 yr. old teenager. He is nine years older than me, and despite of all the criticisms we faced at that time, he was the right one for me. On November, 19, 1977 we got married. We have three sons (ages 30, 27 and 17) and a daughter (age 23) and two grandchildren (girl 4yrs. old, boy 6yrs.) We both know the Lord Jesus, and I love my husband dearly. During the first 15 years of our marriage, we lived in a 1-bedroom apartment and then came the children. I started out with two sons, and we had a tough time looking for a bigger apartment. Unfortunately, as time progressed, I ended up with a daughter. By that time, I applied for cooperative apartments which was a waiting period of 5-7 yrs. waiting list. We waited, waited and waited, and six years later from my daughter, I became pregnant. I cried out to the Lord and pleaded when we are ever being notified. I remembered complaining, complaining about how we’re living so confined. The Holy Spirit then convicted me to confessed to Him to forgive me for complaining. I realized then that I should be thankful that we have a roof over our heads, clothes to protect our bodies, food to eat and that we are not in a shelter and having both of our jobs to make ends meet. Through consistent prayers, the cooperative housing corporation contacted me telling me that there was a three-bedroom apartment. I was so blessed because I realized then that once I trusted Him He would come through. He did! At the present time, it will be 16 years living here now. Until this very day, I miss that 1-bedroom apartment. It was our first home, and all our children were conceived there. From birthday parties, meeting other parents in the building and neighborhood parks and elementary schools, I’ll always will treasure those moments. When I catch myself complaining for whatever reason, the one-bedroom apartment comes back to me reminding me how blessed we are. I’m so thankful to Him. He is everything to me because He knows exactly what our needs are and when it is His time not our time. Yes, I am very thankful to have a caring, loving husband, children, extended families, neighbors, co-workers and church family. I’m also thankful for Women of Faith, too! You are such a great blessing to me. God is not finished with me. I’m sure He has many plans for me for the future and be more thankful for His glory. Amen!
I am thankful for my husband. I have had 3 boughts of Cancer since we have been married for 6 short years. He has been right there by my side through it all and this past summer we learned that I have Bipolar 1 disease and he has stayed right by my side, never complaining never angry always loving and compassionate, and encouraging me. He is so open to what I have gone through and what I am going through he is my cheerleader, he encourages my participation in counseling and he goes himself. All I know is that God works directly through this wonderful man and he and my husband have opened my eyes and heart to so much that is good I am forever thankful for my husband Rich Larson and to God for leading the way.
Also, thank you Sheila Walsh, for when you were speaking in Oct. of 2007 you struck a nerve in me that let me know I was OK and God loved me and shortly there after is when I found out I was Bipolar 1…but you and your words touched me and saved me because I thought I was at the end of my rope.
God is sooooo good!
God Bless you all
Jeannette in Vallejo Ca
I am thankful that God made me His princess! In a world that promotes individual value through fame, riches, and appearance, it is quite easy to become lost in the lies. He redeemed me from the pressure to meet society’s standards and the self-hatred that accompanied it.
I am so thankful that above all, God has chosen me (and you) as his beloved daughter. He sees me and smiles. God has created me with breath-taking beauty and the gift of loving others so I can share that beauty with the young women around me.
“The King is enthralled by your beauty.”
Psalm 45:11
in times of great trials it is hard to have a thankful heart. This month has been very trying for me. I was to move to CO with my Fiance, but instead found the door closed in my face only to have another door open that i have been avoiding for a long time. But God has made his path for me very clear and i must go through it. You see i am a pastors daughter who has been running from God for years and now i cannot run any more. On the 22nd if this month I will be going to court ordered treatment for thirty days. This has been area of concern and now its to the point where God has closed all other options in my life but this. I have been in waiting with my parents at their new home in ID. for a few days now. It is a place where i know no one and cannot drive to any bars. So the only thing for me to do is spend some time with God.
I find it funny how God works sometimes, when there’s no where else to go we are sometimes forced to look at him, and for this i am thankful. God has been doing a mighty work in my heart over the past few days. He has been sifting me… getting rid of all of me all of my “ISIMS”. When God sifts us, you know it is because he is getting ready to shift us. I know that God is not only going to heal me of the rot in my life but he is also going to use me in a mighty way. Even in our weakness He is made strong and our life’s are but a stage for God to show his glory. So in this season of change i am thankful that God still guides and directs those who he calls his own. And that is a promise we can hold onto.
I am thankful.. for God’s grace, sovereignty and His perfect timing. In 2004 at age 45 I’d never dated or been married. I knew that the Lord was my husband and my provider and I was loved. The Lord created circumstances were I met the man I was to marry in April 2004. In May of that year, my dad became ill and in November 2004 he passed away of lung cancer. It was one of the biggest blows of my life. But the Lord saw to it that there was someone beside me to comfort me and love me through this dark time in my life. We were married in December 2006. My husband is a godly man and reminds me that God will always be my comforter and provider. God is first in our marriage and was always first when we were dating. We talked of Him often when we saw each other. When I feel down, he reads the Bible to me and prays for me when I find I have a hard time praying myself. When I thought I knew what type of husband I wanted, I find that God knows the husband I needed. And my husbands says exactly the same. We have both been blessed beyond anything we can imagine and we are doing all that we can to be blessings to all around us.
I am thankful for God’s presence in my life. When my Dad was dying, I would feel great comfort in going to the hospital chapel in the middle of the night and praying. One especially difficult night I prayed that God’s will be done. As I completed that prayer and got up to leave the chapel and go back to Dad’s room, an overwhelming sense of peace washed over me. The next morning I would be the one to tell Dad that he was dying and there was nothing more that the doctors could do. I’m so thankful for the six weeks that we were able to spend with Dad before we lost him. Those weeks were truly a gift from God and I know it.
I am so thankful for my children. I struggled for years with infertility, finally becoming pregnant with my son using a donor egg. Then, 14 months after he was born, I became pregnant with my daughter, quite by surprise (or God’s great design). They are beautiful, sweet children, and I love them so. I am thankful for the courage to leave an abusive marriage, and start over having to trust completely in God. I am thankful for the healing He has been doing in my heart over the past year and a half. I am thankful God loves me and cherishes me, that He NEVER leaves me or forsakes me. And I am thankful to be able to serve Him in many ways.
I am thankful for so very much. Of course my family, my church, my church family, my job, my health. On Nov 3, 2004, my world fell apart. My husband was diagnosed with lung cancer. I was told he would not live. So I prayed for God’s will to be done in our lives and for Him to give me the strength to be able to handle it for myself and to be the Mom and Nana to my children and granddaughters not to mention the wife that he needed. Well, God did not listen to those doctors; because today my husband is asleep in the other room. He is not a totally well man and cannot do some of things he used to do; but he can go to church, pray, and be an inspiration to everyone of us. God is so good and still working. I am thankful for the trials God puts us through because they truly show me the wonderful power of God when I get through them. And I am so much more stronger and a better person. God always gets us where we need to be. For that I am thankful.
I am thankful for so many things, God is truly powerful and wonderful. I have a disease called fibromyalsia. I do catering and I love it. Each month it gets harder and harder for me. Thanks to God I have hired a really nice woman to help me. She has a sister who is also intrested in cooking. Maybe this is the answer that I have been asking God to let me me know when it is time to hand it over to someone else. I do catering for a Womens organization and they too are struggling to keep their 150 year home open. I also have grown to love it. My legs don’t want to co-operate for me. I can stand for only limited times before they turn into what I call sticks. They don’t want to move and I have pain 24 - 7. That’s not a big deal because you see my husband and I of 41 years now were in Toronto Canada which was our favorite vacation spot to weekend at at least twice a year. We wouldn’t spend much money because we didn’t have the extra after we paid for our trip so we did alot of walking which I loved to do. The last time we were there (about 4 years ago) God worked another of His wisdoms on me. We were going to the metro and there were alot of stairs to go down before we got there, well I got a case of self pity as I saw hundreds of people walking past me. When we got to the bottom of the stairs, a young woman came through the doors, she must have been in her early 20’s and she was in a wheelchair with no legs at all. As I wiped the tears away I looked skyward and told God that I got His message loud and clear. I think of this often because you see I am 62 years old and although I can see a wheel chair in the not so distant future for me, What do I have to complain about? I have been blessed by my husband who helps me as much as he can when I am not being so stuborn and tell him its o.k. I can do it. I am gifted with such a wonderful family and friends. I thank God for his wisdom and sharing it with me. Thank you for hearing me out. Amy
I am Thankful for God’s never ending Love & Forgiveness!!!! He is always there waiting for us to return no matter how many times we wander away from His Love. I Praise & Thank Him for my beautiful Husband, children, who are all grown and in their 20’s and up. For my beautiful 2 yr old grand daughter Keira. But most of all Jesus I Thank you for my son Joseph saying Yes to you, entering the Seminary to serve you as a priest . After all, our children are a gift from you, and are yours. I love you and praise you Lord, Jesus.
Praise the Lord!
I am thankful first and foremost that I am daughter of the most high God!
I am thankful for so many things, far too many to list!
The one thing presently though I would have to say is JOY!
I have been daily striving to walk with the Lord since August, 1980 and just this past January began to really experience the joy of the Lord for the first time ever!
Sad I know, but true! I have not fully arrived yet, but I have learned that come what may I can count it ALL JOY! Jesus said, in this world, you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I HAVE OVERCOME the world! (John 16:33)
James 1: 2 says count it all joy when you fall into various trials.
I like the way the NLT says it: … … whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
Praise the Lord I find myself living this way more and more…thanks be unto God!
I am so grateful for so many things but I must include that I am grateful for Luci Swindoll and that I was in Atlanta at the Women of Faith. I laughed so hard that I am sure that I added at least 3 or 4 more years to my life. I have loved you Luci since I first heard the tapes “Celebrate Life” and I love you even more now!! You are real and however painful the situation was for you it was a great encouragement to us that we can make mistakes and still continue to make a difference! God bless you Luci!
Peggy Boggus
I am thankful to God for His amazing love in my life…for giving me such a wonderful family. I am reminded daily of His work in our lives here and around the world. We have a God that we can trust in completely and surrender to each moment of each day. We have such freedoms here in this country to worship and live our lives in Jesus’ name. I am especially reminded today of many people around the world who also are living out the Gospel in powerful ways. We CAN trust in God and believe that we can make a difference in the world. We CAN be about HOPE! We can show the love of Jesus to all those around us….because HE is with us every step of our journey. Let’s be BRAVE as we journey. Let’s be a people of prayer! We have so much to be thankful for!
I am thankful, for Jesus’s never ending knocking at my door. I had a rough bast 4 years, loosing both my parents, and my abilty to be able to walk normal. I had an accadent in June of 05 that damanged my siatoc nerve and left me with drop foot. I know that God could help, but I was one of those people that always said “I do know there is a God, I believe in God, But……” for one reason or another, I had a reason why I was not faithful. Why I thought God only helped those “few”. I though I had to prove my self to God before he would see me or help me.
But I then went to a Women of Faith converence. With the help, and understanding of all your speakers. Knowing they too had knowcked on the doors of hell, but instead found Jesus knocking on the door of their heart. I was able to open that door to my heart, and there he was, arms streached out, and waiting for me. He has been there all that time and I was the one who turned my back on him. I now have Jesus back in my life, and that I am very THANKFUL for.
Many years ago, as a child, I wondered why we pray. Do we pray as a way of asking God for something, a gift maybe. Do we pray to ask Him to watch over us as we sleep for fear we will not wake. Do we pray to ask Him to fix a problem that has occurred in our world. I still remember my nightly prayers….”Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord my soul to keep…..God Bless Mommy, God Bless Daddy, God Bless……” I was always asking God to do something for ME. Many years later, as a young married woman, I stopped asking. I finally said to myself, “No More. It isn’t right. I am being selfish and I should be thankful.” I thought I would have a very difficult time in finding the words to pray. How should I begin? What should I say?
I really should not have worried. You see, once I let go of my fear of being selfish. God opened my heart to voicing my thanks….. in the most simplest of ways.
So, I will share my prayers with you. They often vary in what I add to them, but the message is always the same. It is one of Greeting and Thanks.
“Hello/Good morning, I hope Your children were at peace last night.
Thank you for this beautiful morning.
Thank you for my Yesterdays. Thank you for {a particular moment from the day before or something that happened in the past that is on my heart today}.
Thank you for Today. Thank you for {the knowledge of His Grace getting me through a particular issue that I have to face, or maybe a joyful moment that I have to look forward to or maybe for seeing the smile on my husbands face and knowing God will protect him throughout his day}.
Thank you for Tomorrow and all of my Tomorrows. Thank you for {something I may be looking forward to or knowing His Grace will get me through all challenges that will come}.”
So to answer the question “What am I thankful for?”
I am Thankful for my Yesterdays, my Today’s and my Tomorrows… and all that they encompass.
For you see, they are all a gift, everything that they entail….every thought, every breath, every event and every single moment of life happens in our yesterdays, today’s and tomorrows.
Thankful? Yes, and all of the words that includes: Grateful, joyous, serene, graceful, and so much more.
My family including my 5 precious grandchildren are such a part of me. I was raised by a Godly grandmother and she was the major influence of my life. Now I choose to be a Godly grandmother in my grandchildren’s lives. I look for ways to raise them in faith and show them by example what God has done for me.
Thankful? Yes, that He loves me MORE than I love myself. Thankful for His Grace and Mercy and Precious Blood which covers my past and opens my life to great giving and blessings.
Thankful? For you and all you do.
Be Blessed,
Desiree
I am thankful for so much. I am thankful for having been given the blessing of God-fearing, loving parents who at 93 and 91 are still leading our family. They have been put through a lot with the trials they have endured personally, a handicapped son, and the sudden tragic death of their first-born great-grandson, my grandson, at age 14, and yet they continue to trust God for everything and show us an unprecedented example of tenderhearted love, acceptance and forgiveness. We have been blessed with their humor, wisdom and presence and will be celebrating their 70th Christian wedding anniversary on November 24, 2008. Every member of the family will be there. I don’t know of anyone else whose parents have achieved this.
I am Thankful to GOD for loving me as I am. I am Thankful to GOD for giving me my bestfriend & loving husband wrapped in one package. I am Thankful to GOD for having & enjoying the Greatest kids on earth. I am Thankful to GOD for having the best parents & grandparents a kid could have. I am Thankful to GOD for all answered & unanswered prayers, because it’s he who knows best. I Thankful to GOD for the guidance he gives,without it I would be so lost in this crazy world. I am Thankful to GOD for the gift of our CHRIST JESUS !!!!!!!!!! I am Thankful to GOD for the comfort he gives. I am Thankful to GOD for always being there, it’s a great feeling knowing God is in control!!!! God has been so good to me & I LOVE him soooo much.
I am thank for life. The air. The blue sky to the green grass. I am thankful for my family. My daughter who says the darndest things. I am thankful for my friends, and even so my enemies. I am thankful for my home and my job. I am thankful to have a good relationship with our heavenly father. I am thankful for him giving me the strength to go day to day. I am thankful for every choice I have to make. I am thankful cause of LIFE.
I am so thankful that I have Jesus to walk with everyday, because of God’s graceI have been blessed with so many things in my life these last 20 months. I never would of believed in divine intervention until it happened to me, what an amazing feeling! I had been a drug addict and alcoholic all my life, I am 43 years old, my mother passed away 6 years ago and my addiction really took off. My husband and I reached out and seeked professional help, we both went to a recovery house, and when we came home we changed everything in our life and put all our faith in our savior Jesus Christ, we are so thankful for our pastor and the unconditional love that was poured out among us at our church. We are living a happy and sober life today and we are blessed everyday with Gods grace and all the blessings he poours out to me everyday. I am so thankful also for Women of Faith, I attended your conference in Philadelphia in 2008 and am grateful that this will be a yearly event for me. For all the love and all the support we have recieved and all the blessings that my husband and I share everyday is all work from God. Thank you for all your blessings and all you do.