Through Losses And Tears

“We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” – Proverbs 16:9 (NLT)

“Kristian, think carefully about next year,” stated my husband to my son.

“You might have to quit playing tennis as your mom’s schedule is so unstable at this time,” he added.

“Okay, Dad,” my son quietly replied. But I saw the forming sadness on his face.

“It’s still early to decide,” I answered.

“I’m sure we’ll find a way.”

I have been volunteering to bring some players in our car, along with my son when they have tennis matches away from their school. Not only I enjoy it, but I enjoy spending quality time with my son and I want him to know that whether he wins or lose, I would be there for him.

“If you want to do something, don’t let an opportunity go by without you taking a chance or risking to do it even if it means you’ll fail,” I remember telling him long time ago.

That statement drove me to bring my husband to a private conversation and reminded him how the enemies love to only “seek, kill, and destroy.” That no matter how much we plan, we need to commit everything with the Lord. And that no matter how many times we plan, the truth is He is the only One Who directs a man’s step.

“Even if he had lost many times from his previous matches, that should not discourage him to stop playing. Even if they’re harassing me at work, that shouldn’t stop him from doing something he loves.” We both agreed. “Because through losses, that will build up his character and test his faith.”

“It’s not only about our son,” I told my husband. “I truly enjoy being there for the team because they’re like a family, too.” “It relaxes my mind now that I’m going through a tough battle at work. It makes me forget what I have to go through.”

Yesterday was a sudden change in the weather as we headed out to another highschool. It was too hot. But the team won! And my son won 3 out of 3 matches, with his doubles partner.

“That’s what it is, Kristian. Thank the Lord for the opportunity of having this and thank Him that through your losses, you learned not to quit.”

I should know…Because through my tears, I found comfort at His feet.

How will we know how to heal if we’re not wounded? How will we know what rest means if we’re never doing something? How will we know how to get up if we’ve never fallen? How will we know that there is something of greater  worth to come if we become satisfied with the things of this world?

May you feel God's love renew your Spirit as you listen to this song. And if you don't believe in God, I pray that your heart will take some moment to truly listen to His Voice calling you to return to Him. God bless you all.