I'll never let ANYTHING happen to you...

Yesterday, we decided to watch "Finding Nemo," one of the best movies!  It has so many great messages.  One line in particular stood out.  As Marlin and Dory (my favorite) are looking desperately for Nemo, Marlin says, "I promised I would never let anything happen to him."  Dory replies something like- well that was sort of an odd promise. 

Imagine living a life where NOTHING happened.  I realized I am guilty of the "Marlin parenting syndrome" for sure and I have definitely lived a "safe" life myself.  I like safety and certainty.  But God promises in Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

If I live a life of faith, then I already have my guarantee.  I don't have to live life worrying about every little thing that "happens," I know it is all for my own good, in His plan. 

I am strong because I am weak.  I am beautiful because of my flaws.  I am a lover because I am a fighter.  I am fearless because I have been afraid.  I am wise because I have been foolish.  I can laugh because I have known sadness. 

God uses our greatest weaknesses and turns those into our greatest strengths.  As I look at my past, the things that have hurt the most are the things I am most passionate about.  They have molded and shaped me the most.  On the other side of it, you see God's plan revealed! 

There's always a rainbow after a storm~

(And I *think* I'm going to break out of my "safe" bubble this week if the opportunity arises- details to follow)