“God alone is enough.” Teresa of Avila
Teresa of Avila
Today I read the quote above from Teresa of Avila, a Christian mystic and author during the Counter Reformation, and theologian of contemplative life through mental prayer during the sixteenth century.
I suddenly realized how true her words are for me at this stage of life. People ask me from time to time how it is to live alone since my husband Charles died in March. I notice their surprise when I say “I love it.” And that’s not to take anything away from my marriage to Charles or my love for him when we were together.
But this is a new season–the first time in my adult life to live without others and I’m finding it inspiring, exciting at times, and liberating. I’m enjoying the freedom to do what I want when I want and to discover things about myself that I haven’t known before. When I face a new decision or choice, I’m not scared or worried. I ask God for direction and I receive it. He is definitely a master of all trades! I ask for help with my computer, my finances, my diet, my health, my relationships, even my purchases. You name it and he’s there to guide.
I’m learning to trust and to wait and to accept. I feel peaceful and serene most of the time. I’m observing more and talking less. I’m taking good care of myself and as a result I have more energy for others.
I’m learning to manage my house and my yard and also to ask for help when I need it. Today I am grateful to not only say the words, “God alone is enough” but to experience them.
My God will use his glorious riches to give you everything you need. He will do this through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
P. S. My first great grandchild (a boy) was born July 25, strong and healthy. Massey Valentine Suba. I am in love!
I am finding the same thing. In all the pain of losing a loved one, I realize that God is enough to get me through. We can depend on Him as He promises never to leave us.
I’m so happy you are experiencing the same after Neill’s death. Bless your new journey.
Beautiful baby, Karen!! And it is wonderful to hear that you’re doing so well. You sound content for this season of life. God is the best husband there ever could be, whether married or not. You are truly an inspiration to me. HUGS.
Thank you, Kristi. Yes, God is there as husband regardless of our state. Love you.
I found this to be so true after 27 years of marriage and my husband wanted a divorce! My daughter started to college the second year after the divorce so this was my First time alone in my whole life! It was rather scary at times but I started keeping a Journal and as I re-read those first years I find a constant feeling of closeness to God. He was all I had and most of the words in my journals were a one way conversation to God. Of course I ‘listed’ for His guidance and when I did seek Him, I always found Him there with me! Blessed be the name of the Lord!
Thanks, Karen. I love you ! Margaret
Thank you, Margaret. It’s comforting to me to know you have had the same experience during your time alone. This is my first experience in my entire life of living on my own. I love you too.
My first two lines did not show up in my reply above but I just thanked you for this beautiful message. I also made a ‘spelling error’ ! I really did LISTEN to the Lord not listED ! Laughter is good medicine!
Your Great Grandson is so adorable!! Enjoy him.
margaret
Thanks for the changes. I wouldn’t have wanted to miss them.
Dear Karen, You are a wonderful inspiration. I love that His mercies are new every morning. Hugs, Pam
Yes, Pam, so true. New mercies every single morning. I look forward to them as I wake up and get ready for the day.
Massey is beautiful–congratulations, Karen! So blessed to hear how the Lord is taking care of you in this new season. Thank you for your words of hope and inspiration.
Thanks for checking in, Nancy. It’s good to hear from you and I appreciate your encouragement.
It’s wonderful to read how you are seeking (and finding) the Lord during this new season in your life. His mercies ARE new every morning. Bless you my dear friend!
Thank you, dear, dear friend, Glenda. I know that you too, experience God’s new mercies every morning.
What a cutie! Congratulations!
Thank you, Rebecca. We are enjoying this ‘little miracle’ in our lives. God is gracious.
Abundant blessings are yours Dear Friends Karen and Lynn as you are instruments of love and kindness and faith in the Almighty. We are all SO very blessed to be on the path of truth and faith and compassion.
Karen your new wee one is SO precious. Congratulations to all the family and much LOVE always, Kathleen XO.
Thank you, Kathleen. You are so supportive and always on the path with me. Much love to you too.
I’m so grateful for your inspiring example, Karen. And congratulations on that little baby! God is good!
Thank you, Columba. I appreciate your love and support.
Karen, thanks for your inspirational words, and also for forwarding some of Charles’ writings. He was a thoughtful and spiritual person. May God continue to bless and use you.
Nancy
Thanks for your comment, Nancy. So good to hear from you. I’m happy to know you can appreciate Charles’ writing and the man that he was.