The Unknown

On the way home from San Diego (which, by the way, was a wonderful trip!) Nick and I had a lengthy discussion about the future. We went over everything from potential job possibilities to where the kids and I should live while he is deployed to when we should sell the house. It was a lot to discuss, but it was such an important conversation.

It's no secret that Nick and I are both worriers. Add to that the fact that we are both planners and it's a recipe for a hefty dose of anxiety. Since we've decided to leave the Air Force at the end of Nick's service requirement, we have a lot of unknowns to consider. And, while the conversation we had helped tremendously, there is still a lot to figure out. Some conclusions we did make were:

1. We will NOT put the house up for sale until Nick returns from overseas.
2. I don't have to commit myself to staying in one place or another. I will decide that as I go and as we get closer to Nick's departure.
3. Our ultimate goal is to return to Colorado to be with our family and to raise our children.
4. Nick will keep his options open for careers.
5. We will trust God to lead us, direct us, and provide for us as we head into uncharted waters.

That last one sounds simple enough, but it's going to be one of the hardest. It goes against human nature (at least my own nature) to not only give up control of the wheel, but also feel calm about it. How can I possibly relax when I have no idea where we're headed? How can I feel at peace when the roots that we've planted here in Arizona are about to be plucked from the ground? Changing careers, moving, and going through a deployment are some of life's biggest challenges and we're going to be dealing with all three simultaneously. No wonder we are uneasy!

I just started a Bible study in the book of Joshua. My mom brought me the study book on her visit, because she knew I was looking to get back into the Word daily. Still, I had never read much from Joshua. It always seemed like a nice enough book, but I didn't see how the Jews entering the promised land had anything to do with me. Well, of course, I was wrong. God's timing is perfect and He gave me exactly what I needed when I needed it! Joshua is all about conquering fear with faith and overcoming it with courage from God. God will give us the confidence to go where He has called us. He alone will provide the success and prosperity (if not here, then in the hereafter). In return, we must obey Him. The only way to obey is to make sure I know all that is required of me. The only way to know all that is required of me is to read the Bible. This brings me full circle. Being firmly planted in God's Word will bring me all the peace I need; for the future, for the deployment, for life.