Trust and Faith during Storm seasons

 

I think God had me change my character Tori’s name to Faith when she transitioned from the story Codename Pallas to Nottingham. I think it was to remind me that during my “hard years” or “storm seasons” God was still there for me, even if only using a simple yet profound acknowledgment as a character name change. 

My life did literally fall apart and I still mourn all I lost. Not just family but a way of life I may never have again. I had a mind that trusted that ‘I know I’m not making enough and my job doesn’t value me’ but I am here for them, my parents (till the end, which happened way sooner than I had hoped). And somehow being limited in material ways didn’t seem to matter. I still paid my fair share and did all they asked of me. I tried my best to follow all their rules and be the good daughter. 

I now need to see if I can find my way back to that level of trust again. The world really disillusioned me after my Dad passed and it not only made me doubt my value but showed me people I thought were on my side really weren’t as big of fans of me as I figured. The meanness of the world and those I called “my others “ showed me how cruel and uncaring people and life can be. No one really knows us, do they, except God. And man did I tie a knot and hold onto my life rope attached to God. Tight. Lots of people can see us as a simple “how can I use her” idea and if that notion in the moment is ‘nope, I got nothing for her’ and they can’t see a mutual way forward, letting go of you is easy. But for us that cruelty can deeply hurt our minds and how we process the world around us. Getting back to a calm peace and balance has been a challenge but worth the effort. I thank God for sticking by me and guiding my every step even when it felt like the hellhounds were nipping at my ankles. 

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The Name of Faith: A Devotional

Scripture: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6¹

Moral: Even in the midst of life's storms, when our world seems to crumble and we feel lost and betrayed, God remains a constant presence. Just as a simple name change can remind us of His enduring faithfulness, so too can the trials we face become opportunities for growth and a deeper reliance on His guidance. True value comes not from the fleeting approval of others, but from the unwavering love of God.

Advice:

• Acknowledge the pain: It's okay to grieve the losses you've experienced, both material and relational. Allow yourself time to heal and process the hurt.
• Seek God's perspective: When the world's meanness distorts your view of yourself, turn to God for your true identity. Remember that you are loved unconditionally and valued beyond measure by your Creator.
• Release expectations: Let go of the need for external validation. Focus on living a life of integrity and kindness, trusting that God sees your heart and knows your worth.
• Cultivate gratitude: Even in difficult times, there are always things to be grateful for. Focus on the good in your life, however small it may seem, and express gratitude to God for His constant presence.
• Trust the journey: The path of life is rarely straight. Embrace the detours, the unexpected turns, and even the "storm seasons," knowing that God is with you every step of the way.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for your unwavering presence in my life, even when I feel lost and alone. Help me to see my trials not as burdens, but as opportunities for growth and a deeper reliance on you. Remind me of my true worth, which comes not from the world's approval, but from your unconditional love. Grant me the strength to trust in your guidance, to forgive those who have hurt me, and to find peace and joy in your presence. Amen.