When Life Is Not So Joyfull

The name of this blog is Joyfull Living deliberately chosen way back when the blog began, it was a busy season of life for our family with growing kids, juggling work, sports, church and relationships. Joyfull Living was chosen as a theme as we made strides to find joy through the mundane minutes of life.

Fast forwarding through those years, we continually sought for joy, but the fact is that life can be tough. Crisis, trauma, death and hard times filtered through our lives, just like they do in yours.

Today, I'm writing from a different spot in life. One that has endured troublesome times, learned that help, healing and comfort come from the Lord. Currently our country and world are in the throes of the COVID 19 crisis. This has left me 'staying safe at home' with more time on my hands than usual. Knowing this abundance of time had the potential to develop some not so good habits, I became diligent to keep some sort of routine - rising early, exercise, using time to tackle neglected household tasks. There was time to spend on this blog, cook more, enjoy time on the front porch. But I didn't want this to be wasted time.

My prayer became asking God to do a work in me while I was quiet and still. I wanted to do less, so that He could do more in my life. A ministry that has held a special part of my heart is comfort for the hurting. Each of us has walked through times of deep hurt, loss and grief. We all have a story, a journey and these are not meant to be wasted times. They can be used to grow our faith and in time encourage others. 

For years I have been aware of a ministry called Nothing Is Wasted. Here is a little about who they are:

"Nothing is Wasted Ministries exists to help you navigate your trials, tragedies, and transitions and find purpose in your pain. We do this by providing content that inspires, community that encourages, and coaching that empowers you to walk through your valley well and come out on the other side equipped with a renewed sense of meaning and purpose. No matter what life may throw at you, God does not waste an ounce of your pain, and we’d love to help you discover purpose in the midst of it."

This ministry was born out of tragedy and grief and seeks to bring help and grace to others walking through crisis. There is a Community Group Section that just launched based on the fact - you don't have to walk through this valley alone. This is a targeted online community based on the unique valley you’re currently walking. I am thrilled to be joining this community as a group host, welcoming those struggling with loss and guiding connection and relationships that bring help and healing.  

Exploring and seeking God for opportunities to minister in this capacity, may change the feel of this blog a bit! I'm all about joy and being 'joyfull', but there is a depth that comes only through hard times that secures that joy deep in the heart. It is a confidence that God is walking beside us not matter where we find ourselves. 

I hope you will stick around and watch for posts about grief and about hope, pain and purpose, trials and trust. If you are currently walking through a crisis, grief or hurting, be encouraged to visit Nothing Is Wasted. There is a community ready to walk this journey with you and help you find peace and a purpose on the road to healing.