365 Days Ago

365 days ago, I was listening to Pastor Joel Osteen radio on Sirius XM 128 and I heard the story of Vonetta Flowers (American bobsledder) which planted the seed of bobsled in my heart. I remember exactly the moment I heard it (I was at the stoplight at 168th and Maple in Omaha, NE, going to my brother’s house) and I also remember the season I was going through at that time.
 
I’ve always heard the devil fights hardest when you are closest to your breakthrough. Well, I 100% agree with that. I was in an absolute state of survival at this point in my life. The devil had been attacking me from every angle. I felt stuck, alone, confused and hurt for a few months before this, and especially the two weeks prior to hearing this message. The only way I got through the day was waking up and listening to Joyce Meyer, Christian music and Joel Osteen radio while I drove, podcasts during work and phone calls with my mom. I had something encouraging playing the whole time I was awake, it was the only way I got through the day.
 
Looking back, if I hadn’t been going through all that, there is a strong chance I wouldn’t have been listening to Pastor Joel that Tuesday evening in my car. I listen to Joyce, Joel and Christian music anyway, but since it was an absolute necessity at this point in my life, God was making sure I didn’t miss this! Little did I know in that moment, my life was going to completely change.
 
I didn’t win a gold in the Olympics, but I got to live a life I couldn’t have even dreamed of - and still am. I am so thankful (now) for that tough season I went through. During that season I felt like things were never going to change and I was convinced my dreams were bigger than Gods plan. Today, 365 days later, I am reminded that Gods ways are so much higher than mine (Isaiah 55:8-9).
 
I couldn't find the broadcast message that I heard on the radio, but I found the article on JoelOsteen.com that is pretty much the same thing as I listened to a year ago today. I hope this message encourages you: You Can Trust God’s Faithfulness by Joel Osteen.