Wednesday, June 20, 2012

JOURNEY THROUGH CHANGES


A PERSONAL TESTIMONY 
by CARLA MCDOUGAL (founder of RLM*)

Overcome with emotion. Nothing prepared me for the inevitable. It seems like this Parenting Trip just started. I'm not ready to Journey through Changes. In the midst of contemplating this decision I notice a blockade ahead of me. Warning signs that say, "Entering the Danger Zone." Another sign stating, "YOU MUST EXIT NOW!"

But, I'm not prepared to Journey through Changes. Isn't this road miles in front of me? At least it seems that way. Faced with a decision, I hear a familiar, gentle voice on the radio. His words stun my heart and mind... 


"My Daughter, Changes is your only choice. If you continue down this Parenting Highway at the same speed you will eventually crash into My roadblock. I put it there for a reason. I've allowed My children to ride with you on life's highway for the first part of their lives. Now each one drives with me - alone. I need you to exit. At first, this Journey through Changes is difficult. This path takes you on a variety of twist and turns. Expect some rainy weather conditions. In the beginning the scenery is barren. Yes, like a desert. But, trust me to lead you through this next phase of the Parenting Trip. Once you Journey through Changes an oasis awaits your entrance. My plan was created before you or your children were born. Follow Me closely. Thank you for guiding and directing your children to Me for the past twenty-six years. Now, get ready for a new and fresh adventure!


CARLA MCDOUGAL  
HER OUTREACH TO WOMEN
 OF ALL BACKGROUNDS
 IS PERSONAL AND TRANSFORMATIVE
 

By the way, this Parenting Trip is my road map design. Not for you to control, but me. I've allowed you to be a big part of the journey. But, with excitement your role is changing. I still need you to be in their lives, praying everyday for them to love me with all their hearts, souls and minds. For My purposes to be accomplished through each one to further My Kingdom. Thank you for deciding to Journey through Changes with me. I am proud of you. Wait until you see what's on the other side of this trek!"


All of a sudden, without thinking I take the exit ramp to Changes. Tears flow as I leave  this part of the Parenting Trip. This highway is all I have known. My hearts cry is to follow God's road map. I don't want to divert off the path. But, my emotions run in all directions. With hands on the wheel and my heart lifted in praise, I cry out to God...


"I never expected the Journey Through Changes to be so difficult. Jesus, I need you more and more each day. Help me follow You with my everything. You are the author and finisher of our family. You love my children more than I do. I trust you completely. I know this part of the Parenting Trip is completed and you have a fresh adventure ahead. Help me not live in the past, but focus on Your road map of directions - Your Word. Thank you for allowing me to mother these four children and for the blessing of praying for them on rest of life's path. Also, help me not miss the scenery on this Journey to Changes. I praise You for the rest stops along the way called, Grace and Mercy. A place to refuel and refresh when needed. I praise you as I take this exit ramp in life"


In a moments notice my attitude takes a turn. A smile emerges. Excitement ignites. The Holy Spirit activates a yearning in my heart. Once again I am reminded, "Life is not about me, but all about Jesus!" Humbleness envelops my soul. My eyes rest on 3 John 4, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the Truth." 
I am ready. Ready to Journey through Changes!

CHECK OUT CARLA'S MINISTRY/WEBSITE HERE

*Reflective Life Ministries


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