His plans are higher and greater.

In this season of waiting for our daughter to come home, unexpected news can be jarring.

I long to be at a place of such trust that I will not be shaken no matter what storm blows my way. But, the reality is, I’m not there.

I’m human. I’m weak and I’m weary of this process.

The small victories are rejoiced over. Yet, the setbacks and delays quickly send my rejoicing edging toward despair. These days, my emotional pendulum swings sharply and unexpectedly.

Surprising news this past week took my well-laid out plans and scattered them in the wind.

I was confused. The path ahead seemed foggy and murky.

Right after the news, He brought me away. Away to a place where I can stand in reverent awe of His majesty and glory. Time away to rest in Him.

I reflect back on all that He has done. Events, conversations, friendships, words of encouragement, provision, new paths… all orchestrated by Him. All of it leading to this very place.

And I see it. In the way the ocean tosses a shell to the shore, refining it. I am being refined by my Father.

Fear. Doubt. Confusion. They do not belong in this place. God is the author of good things, He never authors pain or chaos.

These words sang over my heart this morning as I walked along the sea. I’m so thankful for His unending, never-failing, powerful love and sufficient grace.