In MY VICTORY VOYAGE I’m sharing various trials I’ve faced and how God’s faithfulness has carried me through. Join me on the 2nd Friday of each month in 2025 as we reflect on His restoration and grace.
I used to know who I was between the hours of 8 and 5.
For decades, my job in banking provided structure and stability. Bill and I each had our space—he thrived in his creative world; I thrived in my routine. But when I retired in 2022, everything changed. We were suddenly together every day. No rhythm. No separation of roles. It was a huge adjustment for me—one I hadn’t expected to be so hard.
We moved to Florida, a place full of beauty and blessing, but so different from Texas that I never quite felt grounded. Add to that the trauma of a near-fatal car accident, and my sense of peace completely unraveled. I developed a fear of driving. I struggled with my new identity as an entrepreneur. I missed having a clearly defined purpose. And without structure, I felt lost.
“Some days, I just crumbled. Not because I didn’t love my life—but because I no longer recognized it.”
Bill, sweet as he is, floats in his own creative atmosphere. I adore him—but we’re wired so differently. I long for order, and our life became unpredictable. It felt like I had to reinvent myself in every way—mentally, emotionally, spiritually.
Romans 12:2 (HCSB): “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
I’ve clung to that promise more than once. Because truthfully, the mind is often the battlefield in seasons of transition. And mine was weary.
But then—God gave us a miracle.
After months of wandering spiritually, we found a church home. From our first visit, the people welcomed us with warmth and sincerity. It felt like we had been placed there; being seen, known, loved was so beautiful. I didn’t realize how much I’d missed belonging until I felt it again.
“We didn’t just find a church—we found a home. And something inside me finally exhaled.”
Psalm 68:6: “God sets the lonely in families.”
That simple connection began to shift things. I felt my heart soften, my anxiety ease. Slowly, I began to sense God renewing my mind—not through a dramatic breakthrough, but in small, sacred moments. A walk with my pups. A meaningful sermon. A quiet moment with Bill where we just laughed.
Isaiah 43:19: “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?”
At first, I didn’t. But now I do.
I still crave structure. My health isn’t perfect. But I’m learning to trust God in the middle of the mess. My sweet pups continue to be therapy on four legs. And Bill and I—though so different—are still building a life of love and purpose together.
2 Corinthians 4:16: “Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”
That’s my testimony right now: daily renewal. Not perfection. Just grace upon grace.
Philippians 4:7 (HCSB): “And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
So, if you’re in a season where everything feels unfamiliar—if you feel lost between the life you knew and the one you’re still figuring out—you’re not alone. God is with you. He’s doing something new in you too.
Your victory is already unfolding, one surrendered day at a time.
Worship Pause 🎵
Let the gentle reminder of “Peace Be Still” by Hope Darst wash over you. These lyrics are a powerful call to stand in the calm heart of God’s presence, no matter what storms you’re facing. This song has touched my soul deeply. I pray it will bring a southing touch to you as well.
It was supposed to be just a simple daytrip.