"Now faith  is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtain a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were named by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do not appear."
Hebrews 11:1-3

"But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God  must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him"
Hebrews 11:6

Yes, I had a minor vent of depression earlier today... I know I get that way sometimes. Once I composed myself again, I started listening to music from artists that always lift my soul. Mostly, these songs just get me singing along - praising God, singing the songs as heartfelt prayers. I began thinking of how I used to take for granted my relationship with God. I assumed that I would always be as content and steadfast in my side of the relationship.

...

Over the past 13 years, I have let that closeness slide. God had gone nowhere, but I always found myself not praying, not attending church,  and not fellowshipping with other Christians. Personal decisions led to more procrastination. Then suddenly about two years ago, I found a church that fit. My children were baptized, and finally I became a member of the church. Then, something that I have prayed for my 12 years of marriage happened, my husband shared that he saved was baptized this past Sunday. Despite all that has happened this year to us, nothing will eclipse the joy I felt Sunday evening when he stood before the church in the very cold baptismal (lol - they forgot to turn the heater on) and was admitted not only as a member of the church but of God's everlasting life family. My heart soars knowing that no matter what happens in this life, that my family will always have that connection, that we will always be together in Christ. That when the time comes, we will not be saying "goodbye", but "see you on the other side".  I began thinking of this and realizing that my melancholy moment was simply that ... a moment. Financial problems, personal issues, job loses ... all this aside, I have so much to be thankful for and I know my faith will carry me through all.  I am sure I opened my Bible to these verses for a reason this afternoon. It was the message that I was supposed to have in my heart. Strangely enough, I had my old Bible in my desk - the Bible I had used in college - and these verses were highlighted in bright pink highlighter. Apparently, they spoke to me a long time ago as well.