Trusting God has been both a challenge and a joy in my life

By Gaby Smith, NOLA Catholic Parenting

I’ve only been married for a couple of months, but the Lord has truly shown my husband and me the power of each other and the power of praying together.

This took me a few years to realize that the Lord has provided for me every step of the way.

He can continue to do the same in your life if you let him.

After going through a traumatic separation, divorce and uplifting annulment, I realized that being on my own for so long was a sign I needed to rely on God. This was true especially when it came to providing for my son with his food, clothing, shelter, education and so much more.

The Lord provided us with exactly what we needed.

I remember a time when I was a single mother. I tackled a waitressing job that provided the right amount of tips to pay the bills. Looking back, I don’t know how I managed to survive off of what I made waitressing, but God always got us through it.

Not knowing my own future and whether I would remarry and provide a father figure in our home, my son was my motivation.

God sent undercover angels along my path and showed me how he’s always there for me. Those angels were disguised as family and friends (they are still to this day).

There were times where I fell asleep clutching my rosary for guidance and clarity.

God always provided.

When my current husband and I were dating and later engaged, we discussed times when we felt hopeless when it came to things like job- searching after college, death in families, finances and more.

Often, my husband was a reminder to me that God provides. Even if it wasn’t immediate, he always did. God always held my hand and guided me.

I had to surrender my own desires, anxieties and needs.

I had to completely trust  in him. That was one of the hardest things I’ve had to do.

In the end, God always provided what was best for me. It just so happened that our homily for our wedding Mass was about God providing for each other and for his people. The Lord truly speaks his words straight to us sometimes.

I’m not perfect. Sometimes, I lose sight that God provides, and that’s when the enemy strikes. Quickly realizing and with St. Michael by my side, I can turn to the Lord and trust.

Today, my husband and I continue to allow God to work in our lives. I feel blessed to have an opportunity for the Lord to lead me to him. It was an extremely challenging and long, yet fruitful journey.

Know that God will provide for you. He will give you exactly what you need. All you need to do is open your heart to him. Trust me, it works.

Gaby Smith was born and raised in Baton Rouge, has always loved Tiger football and great food. Her work with Catholic Community Radio brought her to New Orleans, where she manages the radio station. Her favorite things to do are spending time with family, cooking and traveling. Please send comments to [email protected]. Visit the parenting blog at www.nolacatholicparenting.org.