One day in 2016 I headed down to the doctor’s office to have an anatomy scan for my third child. Having done this twice before, I didn’t ask my husband to join me. I dropped off the older kids with a friend and looked forward to a few minutes of “me time.” Instead of relaxation, I received news that my daughter had a heart defect and that I would need to see cardiology the following Monday.

That weekend was long. It was stressful and tear-laden. My husband and I prayed and talked, trying to comprehend what our future would look like. At one point I decided to go and do my Bible study. I needed what only God can give. That night when I needed hope, I found Romans 15:13.

This verse became a touch stone for us for the entirety of Leah’s life. We didn’t know if she would die shortly after birth or live to adulthood like many others with her condition, but we did know that every moment was precious. We determined that day that we were going to live out this verse.

Not every minute of those two years was happy, but they were filled with joy. There were a lot of stressful days, but we had peace that surpasses understanding. Our hope was placed in the Good Shepherd, trusting him to guide us where we ought to go and providing for our needs.

Today, I can truly say that my cup overflows. God is faithful through the valleys and I can testify to his goodness. My personal prayer for you today is that you will be able to share a similar testimony and that we may dwell in the house of the LORD forever, together.