Roland Martinez
We’ve all heard the saying, “Your story matters!” It’s true. Every day Tammy and I are inspired in our own life, marriage, and family by the stories people share with us. Our current podcast and blog focus has been on fostering and adoption. We continue to be deeply moved by the authenticity, transparency, and willingness of foster and adoptive families to share their unique journeys with us. We trust you’ve been blessed as well. Hoping to share just a few additional thoughts that might spark the interest in you to share your story.
Think Personal: Embrace the Journey
What experiences have you had in your life? Did someone else’s story inspire you to make a decision you thought you’d never make? It’s time to tell the story!
“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south.” Psalm 107:3
Think Progression: Trust God Through the Process
What process has God had you go through in your life to bring you to where you are today? You may still be in a trail as we speak. Because of your story, your relationship with the Lord can be stronger and your family more united.
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Phil 1:6
Think Phases: Celebrate Big and Small Victories
Every story has obstacles that need to be overcome. There are milestones that are celebrated. Sometimes, no matter how small it may seem to others, for you, it was a major victory. Many couples find themselves in the phase of the journey of their story where they wonder if they’ll get through. The encouragement you share could be just what they need to reach the milestone phase.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Psalm 23:1-6
Think Perseverance: A Faith that Endures
Perseverance as defined by Merriam-Webster, is the continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition. God’s Word is not lacking in stories that point to the perseverance of the one enduring a trial. Nor the one faced with a difficult decision. It’s interesting that the Lord promises victory to his children, whether in this life or the next. We persevere by faith in all circumstances knowing greater is He in us than he that is in the world. (I John 4:4)
“But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.” Hebrews 10:39
Tammy and I along with the rest of the CFL team couldn’t let this opportunity pass us by without communicating just how deeply moved we’ve been by the many stories of strength and faith shared through our podcast and blogs. While the past few stories have been focused on fostering and adoption, we’ve heard so many others along with those that inspire and encourage. No matter where you find yourself in your story, know that it has the potential to be used in great ways by God. Your testimony through the test can soften hearts, mend brokenness, and bring transformation to the lives of many. Will you share your story? Together, let’s proclaim the goodness of God!
