Romans 8:28

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

There have been many times I have clung to this verse in my life. We've grown through so many different circumstances that have crossed our paths and wouldn't trade some of our trials for anything. We know it develops perseverance, character, and hope. It builds our faith that might otherwise remain at a steady level. I've learned to be thankful no matter what our circumstances and be filled with JOY that comes from the Lord.

This week we have really felt a few attacks on our family. We feel strongly that spiritual warfare is taking place against our family as we fight to bring home an orphan and spread Gods love to another part of the world.
-Thursday morning we had a crazy flooding disaster in our home- 2nd floor toilet ran for a few hours- enough to damage our entire downstairs and move us to hotel-living for awhile. A total downstairs renovation from floor to ceiling- and partial upstairs renovation.
-Brad's precious grandfather passed away. This was expected- but still an emotional blow.
-Our AC unit went out and needed repair.

And the list continues. BUT we are feeling blessed and surrounded by Gods favor. It isn't our ideal timing, or plan, but God's got this and we trust in His timing, his pruning, and his ways all around. These are the positives that we are already experiencing despite these major setbacks-
-We have been able to share our story of adoption and our peace (which surpasses understanding) to so many we have come in contact with. Worker crews, contractors, store clerks, hotel workers, strangers at restaurants. The girls love to tell our story.
-We have been able to talk with our girls about the truths of spiritual warfare- and give them tangible examples that they can store in their little minds and hearts. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." The GOOD news is that God's already got this battle covered- we just have to tap into His resources and claim the victory!
- We get to design/remodel parts of our home that we will really enjoy in the long run!! Kitchen, floors, paint, carpet and bathrooms! More than we could ever imagined- but all improvements!
-The girls are getting GREAT practice at hotel life and living. We will be in China for 2 solid weeks doing hotels- so this week and a half before hand has been a good run through. We will possibly have to return to this same hotel once we are back from China. Regardless- our girls are being fabulous.
-No cooking or cleaning on my part for awhile.
-I have already had to pack and get organized for our trip. No procrastinating allowed when you don't have the luxury of putting it off at home.
-Brad and I have taken notice to the stress levels and possibility of really feeling division between the two of us- as we step into traveling, new parenting, and different family dynamics. Thankfully we both are feeling God give us grace for one another already and have been on the same page.
- and last but not least- we feel the power of friends and family who are loving, providing help, and praying for us. Please continue to lift us up as we prepare this week and as we travel in the weeks to come!