Faith~Filled Friday

Can I just tell you, dear bloggy friends...you bless me more than you know! After sharing of my husband John's recent job loss (recap

here), I've been blown away by your support, encouragement, and prayers! I am so grateful, and John has appreciated all of your comments too! You are the best! :)

It's been an interesting week adjusting to our "new normal". I now realize how accustomed to "my" routine, "my" computer time, "my" kitchen space, "my" daily schedule, etc.. I am. This "dying to our self" stuff isn't fun (or easy) ~ but I am experiencing God's grace, strength, patience, and peace in unbelievable ways! Thank you for praying me through!! I'm pleased to say our marriage is great and stronger than ever!

We've also started a new "Bultema family Blessings journal". My hope is to record how we are experiencing God's goodness and provision in the midst of this difficult season. May I share some recent journal entries with you??

Here are some of the many ways we've been blessed since John lost his job 9 days ago...

* John's friend stopping by on the night John was let go to pray with John, listen, and encourage him

* The next day, a dear friend bringing me a latte & Starbucks gift card to remind me God will not only take care of all of our needs, but some of our wants too (Bless you, A.H.!)

* Licorice left on the front porch with notes of encouragement (I'm so glad you printed your e-mails...I was missing some....AHHH!)

* A relative covering all of our May living expenses. What a blessing and burden-lifter for us (especially John)!

* On a night when "my cup was especially empty", receiving a "Top 40 Reasons I love Cindy" e-mail. Ask John, the list made me Boo Hoo!! Thank you so much, J.S., I will treasure it forever!

* The comments, prayers, and notes of encouragement from you, my dear *She Sparkles* friends! Each one touched me! You have no idea how much you ministered to us this week. What a blessing!!

Years ago, when I was faced with very difficult circumstances (recap here), I realized that I had a choice. I could allow the tragedy I was experiencing to make me "bitter" or "better". I was choosing better!

My hope is that during this season of uncertainty and loss, once again, I will choose better! Today I choose to walk by faith, trusting that God has a good plan for our family, and that He will reveal Himself to us every step of the way. It may not be easy, and it may mean I need to learn to share (especially things like my computer ~ smile), but I trust that our Blessings Journal will be filled to overflowing with daily reminders of His care and concern for us.

What about for you?? How was your week?? On this Faith~Filled Friday, how have you experienced God's goodness?? I would love to hear from you!!!

Have a wonderful weekend filled with God's richest blessings!! You are so special to Him...so special to me!! Thanks for stopping by!

In His Great Love,


P.S. I'm so excited for my 40th Birthday Party this Saturday, May 8th! I could use a fun party! Hope to share pictures with you next week! :)