Andrew and I celebrated our anniversary this week. Twenty amazing years of ups and downs, and ups again, and downs again. We both have learned a few things about marriage, although we’ve learned a few more things about faith in the process of maintaining our relationship through the mountain climbs and valleys. Here’s a little of our learning.

We have learned that we cannot find God by searching in the dark for Him. Hoping that God will be there whenever things go wrong. No, instead, we have learned that we have to find our light within and encourage each other to stay the course, have faith that all will be well. We have learned that God is never hidden (even when we feel it to be so) but rather, He is apart of us that we need to call on, ALWAYS! Even in the glorious goodness of the days.

God climbs our mountains, celebrates the top, and falls down with us when we tumble. Early on, this learning was tough for us as a couple. When Andrew and I were ready to be parents, we were overjoyed at how quickly we became pregnant. We told our friends and family, we were so excited. Then, our bottom fell out when miscarriage took our first shared creation. It was heartbreaking. For both of us. Andrew grieved. I grieved. We struggled to connect after that. Looking back, I know God was with us. At the time, I felt we were left alone and broken. God directed us though. We decided to finally find a church to go to. It was the music there that helped me heal. Andrew healed too. God was there, as is easily revealed now, many years later.

We’ve had many other downs, all that feel so dark, but each time, God leads us back up to the top. Some say Redemption. Some say Grace. I say it’s God’s Magnificent Love.

We are never alone. Believe this and you have faith. Faith will hold you through the bottom steps up that tremendous mountain. It will guide you to keep climbing, all the way up to the top. The magnificent top! There will be falls and stumbles. But God is gracious enough to help us back up. And He forgives our doubts, fears, and sinful hearts. Just like that. Do not fear falling from the top. The next mountain you climb will certainly be greater and even more glorious. Find the faith to keep climbing. AND Thank God for that strength of faith. Share His magnificent love by sharing your mountains with others (your stories). Your climb will be a support for others in their own climbs.

Push on. Celebrate with God in every step you take on your mountains and in your valleys. Live for the climb and most importantly, treasure God’s Magnificent Love found at the top.

All is well with my soul. Blessings to you.

Carrie Ruth

#shineon