If this is your first time here, welcome! You can read all about this project right here. This series is intended to offer encouragement to you in your darkest days and in the midst of your worst moments. No matter where or who you are, God knows your name and He cares for you. May these stories uplift you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you are in need of prayer or just to talk. My inbox is always open.
What has been THE most difficult thing that you have ever endured?
Being widowed at age 28 while pregnant with a 2 year old at home.
How did that circumstance make you feel about God?
I felt used: like I was created to show his glory but not to be loved by him. It felt as if my own desires were ignored or forgotten.
At what point did you see God in action-whether through financial means or the actions of others?
My husband was active duty Air Force when he passed away, so I receive a stipend to live on, which gives me the freedom to do what I love (write and parent my kids).
How did that change your view on God & his handling of the circumstance?
He meets my needs. I’m still wrestling with him with my personal desires, but he has revealed his purposes for losing my husband (and my dad 2 years before that).
Was there a particular verse or song (because I personally tend to hear God speak through lyrics and music) that you felt God speaking to you through?
So many. Ha! Never Alone and Angel Armies were huge when Keith was sick. Cornerstone by Hillsong is one that I clung to after he died and Good, Good Father is one that gets me so hard now. I lost my dad and my kids don’t have their dad either, so I struggle to embrace God as my Good Father.
Looking back, how have you seen God work through you and through this circumstance to bring glory to HIS Kingdom?
Oh my word. It’s hard to summarize. He has opened up my platform and given me the opportunity to encourage people to live bravely and authentically through hard times on my blog and podcast.
Do you feel like this is something that has ultimately shaped who you are or shaped your faith?
Absolutely.
If you felt like that circumstance made you a better person/made your walk with Christ or your faith stronger…despite the hard, would you endure it again?
Without question.
What one verse or piece of advice would you offer to someone who may be enduring their own storm right now?
So we’re not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. (2 Corinthians 4:16 MSG)
Courtney Kirkland is a Southeast Alabama Writer & Designer. Since 2011,, Courtney has passionately provided beautiful, intentional design to small businesses & bloggers and encouraged thousands to walk in a rich faith in any situation.