“I’m the happiest girl in the whole world,” I pronounced to my girlfriend with the biggest grin.
She laughed as she questioned, “You are?”
“I am!”
What surprised me most by my admission was that my circumstances were uncertain. My reason for the trip that brought me to her part of the country was not clearly defined. God’s direction in other areas of my life remained vague. Health issues of myself and close family members were uncertain. Ministry pursuits were still in need of answers.
And yet over the course of our three and a half days together, no less than 50 times I proclaimed out loud to her, “I’m the happiest girl in the whole world.” It became almost a running joke, except that I was completely serious.
I needed answers, but I had determined to put my trust in the Lord. As long as I trusted Him, I didn’t need to worry. I didn’t need to assume responsibility for the outcome.
The Bible tells us that “those who trust in the Lord will NOT be disappointed.” If I was not going to be disappointed, I could remain the “happiest girl in the world.”
Nothing about my situations or circumstances changed in those few short days away, but my appreciation for God’s blessing and favor did.
I was the happiest girl in the world.
My heart was at rest as we marveled and gazed in awe at the vastness of the ocean and reflected on how He tells the waves how far and how frequently to come ashore. My soul was at peace as we basked in the glow of the ambers and umbers of the sunset upon the surf and sand.
My mind was renewed as the gentle breeze blew, and while I watched the seagulls find food for the day I was reminded that just as He cares for the birds of the air, so He promises to care for my needs.
I was the happiest girl in the world.
I appreciated the little things each day as well as the big: The close parking spot. The hot cup of coffee delivered by a friend. The door held open by a gentleman. The friendly faces greeting with a hearty “Welcome!” Pain-free moments in the midst of a long day. Decorations in my favorite color. The warmth of the afternoon sun on my face. Visible, tangible reminders of Hope. The sweetness of chocolate on my tongue.
I was the happiest girl in the world.
At the end of our time together she asked, “Are you still the happiest girl in the world?”
I was. My circumstances were still uncertain. But it was as if the Lord showed me that if I would approach my days with childlike delight, looking for Him and savoring every blessing, it’s an expression of trust in Him. The more we focus on Him, the more fully we can experience His joy.
When I trust Him, I am the happiest girl in the world.
Will you trust Him and receive more of His joy in return?
(If you have a question you’d like Dr. B to answer, contact her here now. Your name and identity will be kept confidential.)
A short brief about Hope Prevails.
Hope Prevails
Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey through Depression
Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Speaking from personal and professional experience, a neuropsychologist unpacks what depression is, shows how it affects us spiritually, and offers hope for living the abundant life.
Neuropsychologist Offers Hope to Those Struggling with Depression
-By 2020, depression will be our greatest epidemic worldwide
- An estimated 350 million people worldwide suffer from some form of depression
- As with the bestselling My Stroke of Insight, the author experienced the same condition she treats
- Helpful features include personal stories, biblical truths, prayers, and music recommendations
In Hope Prevails, Dr. Bengtson writes with deep compassion and empathy, blending her extensive training and faith, to offer readers a hope that is grounded in God’s love and grace. She helps readers understand what depression is, how it affects them spiritually, and what, by God’s grace, it cannot do. The result is a treatment plan that addresses the whole person—not just chemical imbalances in the brain.
For those who struggle with depression and those that want to help them, Hope Prevails offers real hope for the future.
Hope Prevails is available now wherever books are sold. To find out more, see: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book/.
From the second happiest girl in the world the only thing that would have made ìt more perfect is more time. But I am in awe of the time we did have. We were highly favored. Diana R
We are highly favored in Him every day. And when our trust is in Him, our #TrustPrevails!
This is perfect for where I am today – I am going to do that – claiming that “I am the happiest girl in the world!” I needed that right now! Thanks Michelle!
~Maryleigh
Claim it Maryleigh, and keep claiming it until you feel it and believe it!! You will begin to delight in the little things, and your joy will overflow! Blessings and joy to you!
God prodded me long ago to thank Him for the small things in my life each day, throughout the day. It was at one of the most difficult times in my life when I watched my mother languishing on a hospital bed, and was given little or no hope from the doctors and staff. I finally found a small thing for which to thank God. I did not have to pay parking twice when I entered the hospital lot a second time in the same day.
That was the beginning of a new journey for me, yet one that I have to keep reminding myself to do in the ordinary, day-to-day events.
He says that brings Him great joy and that He will hear our prayers and answer them. He does.
Good post. Came here from Soli Deo Gloria.
Blessings,
Janis
It is so wonderful when we are able to connect with God’s peace in the midst of challenging circumstances.
Oh, yes. When I trust in the Lord, I truly am the happiest girl in the world. Thank you for reminding us of this truth. Blessings to you, neighbor!
Great word, Michelle!
Thanks for the reminder to trust Him in childlike faith.
I found your post today on Women with Intention.
Hope you have a blessed day~
Melanie
Hello sweet Michelle! What a beautiful post of #Hope! So glad I was your neighbor at #TellHisStory!
Hi there! Great reminder to exude gratitude, thank you!
I need to proclaim this today!! I’ve been counting my blessings Ann Voskamp style-trying to reclaim my joy that has gone missing.
Thank you thank you for this encouragement!
I trust in the Lord and know that I am a happier person for it. Thank you for sharing with us at #JoyHopeLive!
So true! When we look for it – the moments of joy and blessing – we allow God our hearts to fill with His joy!
Blessings and smiles,
Lori
I’ve noticed your “I’m the happiest girl in the world” posts on FB, and was curious about the backstory I was sure must exist. I’m so glad Grace & Truth brought me here today! You’ve shared such important wisdom – our words can have tremendous power in molding our perspective and our attitudes. Thank you for linking up with us!