In the past few years, I’ve been honored to walk alongside some amazing young ladies. They have passion and deep relationships and a desire for the genuine and authentic.
This is Nicole. I met her through my son. They became friends their freshmen year at Trinity International University. Our family is blessed to call her friend, too. She’s funny and smart and loves deeply.
Her senior year has not been exactly what she planned – but God is faithful. She agreed to let me share her story! Enjoy!
Arms Length
My soccer career came to a close earlier than I expected when I tore my ACL and meniscus during a preseason scrimmage a few weeks ago. It’s been a really hard thing to give up the sport that has brought me my best friends, mentors, and many great memories to look back on. I have poured so much of my time, hard work, and energy into soccer the past 18 years of my life and I am thankful to walk away from a game that has taught me so many things and brought me so much happiness with no regrets! I think it has been a good lesson for me to learn that at any time the Lord could ask you to give up something that you hold very closely. And that maybe, the things we hold so closely, should be held at more of an arms length away. I really appreciate the support and prayer I have received so far from many of you during these past few difficult weeks. I may be done playing soccer competitively but I will always have the friendships, life lessons, and memories it has given me!
After reading her post, I sat in amazement at her grace. I don’t doubt there are been some tears and moments of frustration. These college athletes work hard all summer, training 2-3 times a day, watching their diet, pushing their bodies to go, do, endure more and more every day. She trained hard for the opportunity to represent her school, her family and mostly, her Savior on the field at TIU.
Yet, Nicole has grasped the truth that when we surrender what’s in our hand and in our heart to what is in God’s plan, we have perfect peace. And I have no doubt hat she will make incredible advancements for the Kingdom of God through her intended work in the medical profession. In fact, her moment of disappointment today will serve her to help others in years to come.
What are you clinging today that could be keeping you from experiencing God’s best for you? What idea or dream? What unforgiveness or grudge? Are you willing to let go of what’s in your hand for the promise that what God holds is infinitely better?
Complicated Hope 
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