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As our family moved across town to the single family home that we would now rent, the first thought that came to mind was “WHAT a step down”. Yes, a step down, I surmised, because we had our first home built from the ground up, seventeen years ago.
Back then, the children were very young, and we were so excited to move from the city to the suburbs. After much research, my husband and I found a decent, reputable and affordable builder in town; a place with good schools, churches, etc. In other words, a great location to raise our boys. We both worked full-time and were able to afford this home. So we thought. The blessing eventually became a curse, at least it appeared so.
After struggling financially for many years, we decided to release our home, via a short sale, and were then blessed to rent a town home in the same school district. We even kept our old telephone number. I didn't feel too disturbed about moving, because it was a new sub-division and the town home had a great 'look' to it. Friends would come by and say' “ Oh, how nice”, “what a lot of space”. Even our teen-age boys were okay with this transition.
But, the economy continued to affect our family; and we were forced out of that home after three years. This led to our current place -- in the same community – but, now closer to the railroad tracks on the OTHER side of town. This area was known as the “old” section, with the older houses. Now, the feeling of embarrassment sank in deeply. I knew God didn't want me to feel that way, but I did.
This feeling mushroomed when a close family friend came by right after we moved in and said, “Oh, how quaint”. I knew what that meant. Then, a person from church said to us one day, “We didn't have your contact information since you moved (again). Did you have to change your telephone number?”
Of course, my husband, who is also a Christian, said one day, “At least we're not on the street”. I knew he was right, because it could have been much different. Our current landlord explained to us later he had already promised his rental to another couple, but 'something told him' to talk to his wife and select us as tenants.
In writing this story, the Holy Spirit reminded me that often our idea of a home may be one thing, (ie. new construction, 2.5 baths, fireplace, home theater, 2-1/2 car garage, big yard, deck, etc.), but God shows us in various ways, it is about the love, truth and peace in the home; not the material things.
We began years ago trying to keep up with the neighbors...which caused spirits of jealousy, envy, depression, lack, confusion, to prevail at times in our home. But, glory be to God, we grew in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ who shows us that being concerned about what other people think is not important. Thankfully, that STRONGHOLD was eventually broken!
Embarrassment is not something a child of God should have. We should have boldness and conviction in whatever situation we find ourselves in. More importantly, our relationship to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our Faith should be our focus. Letting God get the glory out of our lives is His desire, and should be ours, as well.
Therefore, whether or not we are able to own a home again, debt-free, I now have a new resolve and peace that says 'it is well with my soul'. Our adult children also understand what it means to thank God and be grateful for what is given, no matter what trials or tribulations come our way. Yes, there is always tomorrow.
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