I believe that God allows difficult circumstances in our lives to build our faith and ultimately glorify Him.
Consider James 1:2-4 ~
Dear Brothers and Sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
I could cite many examples of this in my life, but most recently, the trials of my pregnancy have revealed several truths.
You may have noticed my absence over the last few days. My twitter followers are well aware of the reason behind that, but I am just now able to verbalize in spurts greater than 140 characters.
Over the last week, I developed a nasty sinus infection. While my husband traveled yesterday, I managed to get myself to the doctor. On top of this, I have had a very painful abdominal hernia since December. The pain from both was more than I could handle, and I received a prescription for antibiotics.
While I waited for my prescription, I decided to run a quick errand to pick up some much needed dog food. Normally my husband covers this task, but I knew that my local pet shop would handle the heavy bag for me.
As I walked the 20-ish yards from the store to my car, the store manager behind me carrying the dog food, I somehow missed the upcoming curb. My burgeoning belly covers my feet and the ground below. I fell flat on my face, in broad daylight.
Despite the pain and humiliation, I stubbornly insisted that I was okay, but several concerned onlookers insisted I see my doctor. So my mother-in-law picked me up and took me straight to my OB. Where I was promptly sent to the hospital for monitoring.
Long story short, my sweet baby boy is just fine. Strong heart rate and ferocious kicks as usual. I did have a few contractions, but they subsided. My chin, hands and knees are banged up and my pride is slightly bruised, but overall I am ok.
While I was on the way to the hospital yesterday, I sent a quick text to one bloggy friend to fill her in. Little did I know, she put the word out on Twitter. My baby and I were instantly lifted in prayer all across the country!
I came home last night to an overflowing inbox full of support from well wishers, friends, and people I have never met! After I updated my Twitter and FB friends with the details, more support poured out via the interwebz.
I am so incredibly thankful for God’s protection over my little one. And I am overwhelmed by the love and support coming from all directions. Little did I know when I started this blog almost one year ago the impact it would have on my life.
Not only have I been loved on by online friends, but this pregnancy has shown me what an amazing husband I have. He has had to step up more than ever before to help with the kids, the house and everything that comes with it.
I have also come to appreciate my church family on a whole new level. Friends and people I have never met have been praying for me, bringing my family meals, and offering their services to help.
I may be stuck at home most of the time, but I have not felt alone at all. This difficult season of my life is truly an opportunity for joy! Some days are harder than others, but then I remember James 1:2.
Now, more than ever, I am struggling to balance my faith, family, and frugality. But I get to face this challenge with many friends, my readers, my husband and my God.
Soon I will be holding my sweet baby boy and a whole new season of challenges will begin. But I know I will never be alone.
Isn’t it amazing how people respond when you need it! Glad you have such a supportive husband. Can’t wait to see pictures of your precious little boy.
I’m so relieved that everything is okay. You had me so worried when I got your text. So glad hubs is taking care of you. I cannot wait to see that sweet baby boy of yours!
Alyssa, what a great post! I am so glad that you and baby boy are okay, and hope your scratches (and ego) heal quickly 🙂 You are definitely prayed for and loved – even from far away!
My kiddos and I were praying as soon as we heard about it on twitter! We are so glad your sweet little one is doing great!
Great post, Alyssa. Thankful you are both okay. With love, Lori & family
I’m so glad you are both okay! You had everyone worried for awhile, but we knew God was taking care of you. Take it easy… it won’t be long before you have your sweet little boy home with you!
Alyssa~
I don’t think I have ever posted a comment but I am one of your “silent” readers. 🙂 Your blog has been one of my favorites, along with Denise’s and a few others. Just wanted to add that I am glad you are ok. Soon your little guy will be in your arms.
Just getting custody 2 years ago of my then 19 mo old grandson when his dad died unexpectedly showed me how God watches over us. A year earlier I had started out alone and thought I would never see him again when my daughter took him back out of state with her husband. During that year God connected me with a church I had prayed to find, friends I never knew existed and when the time came I was surrounded by people and support only God could have provided.
You may not know some of us, and as for me Twitter is beyond me so far 🙂 but know that we’re out here praying for you.
I had prayed for you from what I saw on Twitter – I am so relieved that your baby is alright! God Bless you girl!
I’m so glad that you and your baby are okay! Prayer is such a powerful thing!
I’m so glad that you and the baby are OK…just a little bit longer and you’ll have your little boy in your arms :-).
God is Gracious and Merciful! Praise God for your precious baby!!!
I believe you wrote this post for ME! I needed this today!!!
Thank you so much!!
Leslie
LeslieVeg@msn.com
http://leslielovesveggies.blogspot.com/
You manage to put a positive spin on a very bad week!
So glad you and baby are well.
I’m glad you’re okay! I hope you get the opportunity to get some rest so you can recover from your fall and from your sinus infection.
I know that was probably one of the most stressful days for you. I am so sorry about your scare and relieved your little man is okay. Love, B
Oh Alyssa,
I am so glad you are both okay. I was truly worried and praying for you both ! I know that must have hurt ! (((HUGGS))) Soon the baby will come and the pain will all magically disappear when the two of you see each other for the first time 🙂 Take it easy, and rest. The big day is vastly approaching 🙂
I’m so glad that you and your baby are okay! Only a few more days until he arrives 🙂 Stay Blessed!
What a lovely posting. God works wonders doesn’t he?