Hold Onto Hope: A 5-Day Devotional for Encouragement and New Beginningsनमूना

Our time in the army was a godsend for us, as it is for many families. Those years were filled with many wonderful moments, and the military did what it could to support the entire family unit during times of war and peace. In fact, the military is so supportive of spouses that I even received a certificate of appreciation when Phil retired. However, different personalities handle separation, pressure, and stress in vastly different ways. Some of our friends in the service thrived on the challenges the military posed, while others crumbled under the pressure.

I’m not sure where Phil and I stood on that list, and back then I was too mired in my own self-pity to figure it out. I was still regularly throwing back drinks, and that only clouded my mind and judgment that much more. Even more disturbing than my drinking was the fact that money was still a major issue in the household. We faced the added pressure of knowing that now our oldest child was hundreds of miles away, struggling to get by as well. We had no money to send to Shaquille like many parents do when their kids go off to school, and that hurt me so much as a mother. Though my connection to God was still a little strained, I spoke to Shaquille regularly about relying on God to get him through those tough times on campus when he didn’t have what he needed.

I do regret not having the knowledge of Scripture then that I have now. There’ve been so many times that I read the Bible and saw Scriptures that would have been perfect to read to my son during those trying times. Proverbs 4:10–13 would have indeed been perfect. “Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.”

Prayer

Lord, I have not always been close to You, but I am so grateful that You have given me Scripture so that I can know Your heart and draw near to You. I hold fast to Your word and rely on You to help me through each day. Amen.