As I quietly sit in my preferred spot, spending time in God’s Word and enjoying sweet fellowship with Him, snowflakes gently fall.

I am overwhelmed with both praise and lament. Praise for the beautiful blessings that have unexpectedly filtered into my life, surprising me with joy, and lament for those who are going through deep waters, things that can fracture our faith.

Here in Southern Ontario, spring has arrived, but the cold and snow linger. However, no matter how long it takes, spring will always come! There is hope when we feel hopeless, and there is a peace that comes from knowing that “all things work together for good to those who love God, who have been called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). We can be thankful, not for all things, but in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18). “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

And so, I prayed …,

Dear Lord,

As I look back, I can only marvel at Your grace, faithfulness and provision in my life. You are such a good Father, and I rejoice in the bounty of Your love. You are the God who gifts His beloved children, blessings beyond measure. You have been my help and hope in the valley and my sufficiency on the mountain top. And now, even in the most unexpected, I can place my trust in You. For today, my tomorrows and in all the years you have planned for me, I am confident that all will be well according to Your perfect will.

There will always be hardships because we live in a fallen and broken world. You are the One who carries me when my faith flickers. You are my Rock, my Rescuer, my Redeemer, my all in all. You are my most faithful and trustworthy Friend, who has never left or forsaken me. You are my Great Shepherd who shields me and lets me rest safely and secure between Your shoulders (Deuteronomy 33: 12). You provide times of rest for my soul in lush green pastures, beside the cool, sweet waters. You refresh and restore my spirit. My cup is full and brimming over with joy. As I focus on Your goodness and mercy, I am humbled, amazed and truly thankful (Psalm 23). “You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy” (Psalm 30:11). And so, over these years, I have learned that …after the winter, spring will always come!

Susan Page is the daughter of the King, His beloved child, wonderfully forgiven and blessed! Susan longs to age gracefully, becoming more like Jesus as she seeks the hidden treasures revealed to her through Scripture, literature, the arts, humankind, and nature.