Dear Reader

Jenny Vonkeller

LPC/A

6/15/2026

As you read these words, I am on maternity leave and likely up to my elbows in dirty diapers, late nights, and tons of newborn snuggles. This is my husband’s and my first child; while it is sure to be the most beautiful season of our lives, it has also been filled with changes and new experiences. When we discovered a baby was on the way, everything seemed to be different all at once. From physical changes in my appearance to putting a registry together and planning a nursery, it was a whirlwind.

We all have different reactions to change in our lives – some love new opportunities while others relish their routine and daily plans.

One of the sweetest things in this life is resting fully in God’s promise and provision. It sounds great on paper but can be difficult in concept; we make plans and piece together a roadmap to our version of success. Just when we think we’ve got it all figured out, a circumstance or hiccup comes along and crashes right into our plans and expectations. Those moments can reveal a lot about our priorities and who or what we trust most.

What is your response when your plan doesn’t work out?

For most of us, this can look like high stress levels, anxious feelings or thoughts, grief, or even hopelessness. Has your response ever looked like surrender? Ecclesiastes 3:11 says that, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” The Lord is shaping our lives in real time; there is a plan for each of us, even if it’s too far down the road to see. You are never alone; it is not your responsibility to figure it all out. Let yourself have trust in who God is, be encouraged by his loving nature, and rely with obedience on his plan for your life and future.