Together In The JourneySample

Firsts “During the past two years, there were so many other firsts we shared with her. Each and every holiday, such as Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Independence Day, brought new experiences. Even changes in the weather—snow, spring flowers, and fall breezes—were all so new to her. We took her to the beach for the first time, to her first Clemson football game, and to her first county fair. We enjoyed watching her as she soaked it all in.” (Chapter 14) Before our adoption, I would get downcast in my soul when thinking of my daughter and all the milestones and memories we were missing. Adoption can be emotionally taxing and strenuous, and the enemy loves to sneak up on you in your weakness and steal your joy. He wants you focused on the hardships and the gloominess of your situation because this misplaced focus keeps you from focusing on the beautiful attributes of God. God is the opposite of this darkness. He is love, joy, peace, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and in control. When I was in a rut of melancholy, I would run to the Word seeking verses that focused on these attributes, claiming them over my life. Put on that Armor of God, so that you may withstand the enemy’s plot. I love these vital and significant armor pieces mentioned in Ephesians 6, and I don’t think it’s coincidental that the first piece mentioned is the belt of truth. The enemy is called the Father of Lies, so to combat his lies, we must be in the truth. Get in His Word—it brings sanity in the midst of calamity. The last armor mentioned is the helmet of salvation. Put it on and remember you are a child of God and rest knowing that the enemy has already been defeated. When I finally got Lyla, I realized while I thought I was missing “firsts” with her, I wasn’t. I have had so many “first” moments with her, just like I did with my other children. I heard her say “Momma” for the first time. I watched her experience new things like weather, opening gifts, and celebrating holidays. But the coolest part was watching her experience the love of family for the first time. God went above and beyond blessing us with “firsts,” because when she would appreciate something for the first time, I would also learn to appreciate something I had taken for granted. Our God is a good, good Father, deeply interested in giving us the desires of our heart! What lies have been chipping away at your joy? Have you found yourself carrying a burden of despair? Take time to search God's Word for the truth and claim it boldly for your life and your future son or daughter.