“My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.”

Jeremiah 29:11

“Mom, I’m eight weeks.” The Pizza stuck in my throat.

Church worship had gone well that morning and Tabitha and I had chosen Pizza Hut for lunch.

She was watching me for my reaction. My mind swirled. 21 years ago I was in her shoes, unmarried teen and pregnant. “Ok Denise,” I thought, “You’re up.” I listened as she poured out her heart and fears.

The next few months were very difficult as the future of my daughter and unborn granddaughter hung in the balance. She and Brad both still in college, Brad graduating soon with plans to move 600 miles away to do his grad work at another college.

I’d taken up quilting when my two children began driving. It kept my hands busy while I prayed and tried to stay sane. I found myself making a baby quilt. Some of the blocks had Bible verses written on them. Verses like:

• “You are fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14.
• “I chose you when I planned creation.” Ephesians 1:11-12.
• “I knew you even before you were conceived.” Jeremiah 1:4-5.
• “Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.” Matthew 10:29-31
• “I knit you together in your mother’s womb.” Psalm 139:13
• “I determined the exact time of your birth & where you would live.” Acts 17:26
• “You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book.” Psalm 139:15
• “I am your provider and I meet all your needs.” Matthew 6:31-33.

Working on the quilt helped me realize God has a plan for every soul He breathes life into, that His plan has perfect timing and my job was to trust God to see us through this for He indeed knew the future of both my daughter and grandchild. He would take care of both of them.

We moved Tabi and Brad 600 miles away to Southern GA when she was 7 months pregnant. The 11 hour drive is long, but so worth it! My little Granddaughter is being raised in a home full of love with her mommy and daddy. She is the sunshine in each of our lives. God knew what he was doing.

“Lord, please help us to trust your plan even when the world seems upside down. Thank you for the blessings you bring out of our life’s storms.”