When we first moved to Oregon, I felt the Lord speaking to me through the book of Daniel. There were several main themes to the life of Daniel and they ministered promises to me during a difficult time. Looking back, I see all of these promises fulfilled and am filled with gratefulness and praise to Him!

The first promise was that God Protects (Dan. 2:18-19, 3:25-26, 6:22. God protected Daniel by giving him the interpretation of the King’s dream so he wouldn’t be killed. He spared him from the fiery furnace, and also supernaturally protected him in the Lions den). As a mother, of course I desire the natural protection over myself and my family, but I also desire spiritual protection. In Oregon, we weren’t surrounded by pastors, men and women of God, anointed guest speakers or even a church body. It was a season where we felt we couldn’t look to anyone else to stir us up spiritually other than ourselves. We were facing depression, tight finances, opposition from family and an uncomfortable season without our belongings or church family. We were holding on to a delayed promise of being in San Diego to be a part of Urban, and at times it felt like that dream was never going to happen. Looking back I see the protection of God upon our family on every side. I see that though sorrow may last for a night, joy came in the morning! I see that as we remained diligent with our finances, he rebuked the devourer for our sake! I see that through times of difficulty with family, he never let the enemy get a foothold in our hearts. The biggest thing I see is that through times of incredible testing of our faith, he proved that he was faithful and that His promises never return void!

The second promise is that God Provides (Dan 2: 48, 5:29, 6:28. He was lavished with many gifts, he was clothed in purple and gold chains, and he prospered after the Lions Den). I knew that the Lord was telling me that when the timing was right, he was going to amply supply more than enough financial provision for our transition. There are many expenses that need to be accounted for in a move, and we did not want to get here and be broke! Here I am going a month without work until my job starts, and we have plenty for the downtime! During seasons of lack, I believe he taught us to use those times as an opportunity to choose to trust him (not our jobs) as our provider!

The last promise that was ministered to me is that God Promotes (Dan. 1:20, 2:48, 5:29. Daniel was 10 times better than any of the others, a high position was given to him to rule over the entire province. He was put in charge of all the wise men and made the 3rd highest ruler in the kingdom). Brandon interviewed for a sales position here in San Diego, and was offered a position in management. Through a divine connection I found out that by transferring through my company to a department store counter I have the ability to make $6/hr more than what I make now! That was God setting me up!

I just want to encourage you during the times of waiting, that waiting really is the hardest part. Use it as an opportunity to exercise your faith muscles and trust God! He protects, provides and promotes!