Finding Encouragement through Disappointment

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth; it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace...." Isaiah 55:8-12

This has been the most significant disappointment that I have encountered in a long while, and I struggle hourly to remain above the disappointment, anxiety, fears, & tears. Things are easier as we venture from the home to different places, however as soon as we return home, the storm clouds settle again into my heart and soul. Yes, it's hard on me, but it is also hard on the family, especially Cameron & Taylor who know enough that something has happened, but don't quite understand the complexities of it all. Or, why mom hasn't been smiling more these past couple of days.
But, the Lord is gracious in His Word. He has continuously led me to the words and promises written by the prophet Isaiah. And, in these words I find comfort. In these words I find guidance. In these words, I see His ultimate purpose, wait & trust patiently in Him, that He is protecting and guiding, and His ultimate plan in all this will be revealed in His time. We are asked to patiently wait, listen, trust, & obey.
A good friend, and ever-so wise woman, recently wrote and shared the following words with me, and they are comforting, encouraging, and hold so much Truth:

"What a mystery to this turn of events is to us, but not to God. It
is so difficult to trust God when we cannot see His Hand. Perhaps His
Hand of protection is raised...Who can know also anything about this
fragile and crazy economy! We just have to trust what we cannot see.
Sometimes our feelings overpower what God may be trying to say. I am
going to pray that you and Rob will be able to hear and perceive what
you do not currently know ("deep calling unto deep"). Stay under the
Word of God. Wait to hear from Him. Do not panic about this. Your
home is beautiful & it will sell at "just the right time." I can
promise you that when you and Rob get to the other side of this (which
you will), you will see that "God was in it all along". We will be
praising Him for His infinite wisdom!!! Everything is OK! Just wait
and see. "

All I can say is, thank heavens we are headed to the beach at the end of the week! Youth ministry and Fun in the Son saves the day again! Oh, how I cannot wait to be on the beach, be with others, worshipping and praising our precious Lord & Savior, and encouraging others in their walk with Christ.

Lord, may your Spirit fill my heart and soul throughout today so that I can shine YOU. Your strength and not my own...