ride 'em cowboy.

I have to smile when I look back at my blog. I can't help but sigh when I see the patterns I so easily fall into, and the multitude of times He has lifted me out of the pit. And here I am again.

I am amazed at the way He works in my life. I probably shouldn't be, because often its my stubborn heart and distracted mind that lead me astray.

He opened the gates this past month. He swung them wide open, and said, "Run. Run like you've never run before." I feel like I have mounted on wings like eagles and soared. I heard clearly from Him that I am where I am supposed to be, doing what I am supposed to do. And I want to cry. I want to jump up and down. I want to scream praises from the rooftops- because I've never felt so assured of who He created me to be. I've never loved being me, so much. The illustration given to me of the stallion in my last post was beyond accurate. He chiseled me, molded me, taught me in those hard months. I am unique, and I am different. And I am loved.

I realize, please know this, that I am a sinner. I know that I have barely scratched the surface in realizing just how sinful I truly am. Our pastor often talks about the fact that the more you seek God, the more you see your need for grace, and then you seek God more, and then see your need for grace even more, and so on and so forth. I do not think my sin frivolous, and I desperately try to not take the grace He showers over me lightly.

But there is something about this phase of life. Something about learning to appreciate why I am who I am. It is exciting, it is inspiring, and it is humbling.

I want to share just a snippet from a blog post from my website:

_Finally, and most importantly, thank you Lord for letting this come to fruition! I am speechless, and truly humbled, as I look at how all the pieces fell into place, in Your perfect timing. I am amazed at the work of Your hand. 1 Chronicles 17: 16- Then King David went in and sat before the LORD and said, “Who am I, O LORD God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far?” I would not be here without your grace and love._

The day I "opened for business" I read through that chapter. I could not have picked a better passage to read. David was stunned when he saw the Lord's plan for him (and his family). I totally get that. I truly feel blessed. I am completely amazed.

And I'm telling you: My God is an awesome God.