The Great Escape

 “Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean NOT on your own understanding; In ALL your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5,6

Many years ago, I was a young, single mom, divorced and engaged to be married a second time. I wanted my young son to have a father. Divorce was not a part of the family I grew up in, and I knew it was wrong. I felt like such a failure and was ashamed. I was devastated when the engagement also ended. My son and I were deeply hurt. Life from that moment on would just be the two of us. I decided to move away and make a new start for us. I don’t remember whispering a single prayer because God was not a part of my life at that time. He was no longer in my thoughts. But oh, how I needed Him!

I left my home, my job, my friends, and the familiar place I lived. My only family lived 250 miles away. Moving close to them seemed like the best thing to do. They loved my son and me, and were happy to have us there, but I was miserable. They could not make me happy. I still had an emptiness inside me, filled only with grief, sorrow, and depression. I was confused and did not know which way to turn to find peace and contentment. I needed Jesus back in my life for my son and me. Jesus was the only one who could bring healing and peace to our weary souls. I would soon realize this.

I wasn’t reading the Bible, but God spoke to me through a letter I received. It was the very first verse I ever read: Proverbs 3:5-6. He said: “Trust in Me with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Me, and I will direct your path.” I returned to Jesus. My way of escaping my brokenness and depression was by turning to Jesus. He forgave me and showed me His love for me. I learned to lean on Him through every trial and temptation that would come my way, and not to depend on myself.

His way is so much better than our ways. He brought me out of the world, and into His kingdom. He has led me through many trials and difficult times. He was my Great Escape! And still is!

Father, I am so thankful that You are always working in our lives. Let us always be aware of Your presence. You know everything we have need of, and You supply all our needs. You are a good, good Father who watches over us and leads us in the way we should go. May we always be mindful of everything You do in our lives, and may we always find time to spend with You. In Jesus’ Mighty Name. Amen.