Opened, Closed, Answered

I've been reflecting on our time in this wonderful state of SC. I'm remembering a couple of very specific prayers we prayed when we first arrived here. The first was that God would open and close doors that no man could open or close for us. I think we focused far more on the first part of that prayer in anticipation of all God would open up here in SC and I don't think we really imagined that doors would actually be closed. God is so faithful though and He knows what we need and what is right, even when it involves closing doors.

God truly has done both opening and closing doors on our behalf. He has closed doors for Caleb's career here. Since two weeks into the job when Caleb's original position was dissolved and he was moved to a different location within the company. Next, he was offered a promotion within the company that never came to fruition. In fact, the man never even contacted him again after making the offer to him. Very strange! After much frustration and Caleb even confronting the man, we found out the funding wasn't there after all. I've come to the conclusion God simply closed that door.

God now has opened doors for us to return to the NPS and to AZ. We are so excited to be near my family again (yay grandparents!) and Caleb has a promising and exciting career waiting for him. Caleb also never really got rangering out of his blood. Even when we first arrived here in SC, there was a sadness everytime he spoke of being a ranger. It was almost like he couldn't talk about it because he missed it so badly. We're so thankful that the NPS has welcomed us back so open-armed. They have been better to us than necessary, to be sure.

So far God hasn't opened the door for our home to sell but I am absolutely trusting this too is from God to somehow bring something good. Perhaps to grow our faith and glorify Him? Perhaps to keep us close and dependent on Him? Perhaps to strip us of putting our hope in material possessions? Perhaps to keep us from being prideful? Perhaps all of the above and more? He is for us. He is faithful. He continues to reveal His presence in our lives and even when it's a closed door, I will trust Him.

I will continue this post over the next couple of days on how God has answered prayer in our life during our time in SC. This was Part 1 of 3. Stay tuned...