Trust in God's Plan
by Colonel Crista Dalrymple
Stewart and I are the parents of two wonderful young adults. There are moments now when I pause and ask, "Where did those years go?" Time seems to move quickly when you are raising children!
As Salvation Army officers, we go where the Lord sends us — and that calling includes our families as well. When we responded to God's call to serve as officers, we understood that our decision would also shape the lives of our children, but we trusted that God's plan encompassed our whole family. We believed then, and still believe today, that the Lord would faithfully care for each of us as we followed Him.
As our children grew, there were many joys along the way, but also some challenges. There were tears when it was time to say goodbye to friends and nerves on the first day in a new school. Transitions were not always easy, yet as a family we can say with confidence that God's hand has been upon our lives. Looking back now, we can clearly see how the Lord ordered our steps and used every season to shape us according to His purposes. Even in moments that felt difficult at the time, God was at work. He used those experiences to form our character, deepen our trust in Him, and prepare us for the work He had set before us. What once seemed like hardship has revealed itself as part of His loving design.
God is truly faithful. His grace is always active — pursuing, guiding, and sustaining us. Long before the Dalrymple family recognized it, God's prevenient grace was already at work in our lives, protecting us and gently drawing our hearts toward Him. When I reflect on each appointment we have received, I can see how God used those places and seasons to shape not only Stewart and me, but our children as well.
Life is not without struggle; following Christ does not make life free from difficulty. What it does mean, however, is that we never face those difficulties alone. His presence never leaves us. Through every change, every challenge, and every new beginning, He has proven Himself faithful.
Now our children are grown and have flown the nest. Our role in their lives has changed, but our love and care for them certainly has not. Our prayer remains the same: that they will choose Jesus every day, and that their lives will shine for Him as they continue to grow in Christlikeness. It is the same prayer I pray for myself and for Stewart as well.
Deuteronomy 7:9 reminds us: "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love." As deeply as we love our family, God loves them even more. The same faithfulness He has shown to Stewart and me throughout our lives, He will continue to show to them.
If you do not yet know Him as your personal Lord and Savior — if you have not asked Him to forgive your sins and transform your life — I encourage you to consider doing so. God has a plan and a purpose for your life (Jeremiah 29:11), and I can assure you that He is faithful. If I could share one piece of advice that I share with my children, and would love to share with you, it is this: Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. He will guide you through life, strengthen you in every season, and remain faithfully by your side.
