As a young mother and wife, I had great expectations of raising my children in a loving, safe environment, and modeling for them a beautiful, trusting relationship with my husband. Well, let’s just say that my reality certainly did not line up with this expectation. As a matter of fact, my reality was quite the opposite.

Almost on a daily basis, I asked myself, “Why? Why do I keep doing what I don’t want to do and don’t do what I do want to do?” My emotions were controlling me to the point that I lost control of my temper on a regular basis, all to the detriment of my family. I was in a downward spiral, and I was taking my precious family with me.

But, God... isn’t that such a beautiful statement!? God saw me and He sent a godly woman who challenged me to stop and dig deep to find the root of my emotional roller coaster. Through her ministering guidance, I was able to understand that I was not really an angry woman, but a fearful woman. Once I got to the root of my emotional outbursts, God set me free from the bondage of my painful childhood. God saved me when I was 12, but He set me free when I was 30.

I see my own life in the Scripture found in Isaiah 61:1-3. Jesus, the Anointed One, has brought me out of bondage, healed my broken heart, and I have made the great trade! I traded in my ashes, and He has given me victory over my past. My husband and I have been married for over 40 years and we have a beautiful relationship with each of our five children, their spouses and 13 grands.

I love to share my story, because it is about what God has done. To God be the glory!