On 11/22/21, I entered a journal entry. I wrote out the pericope of Philippians 4:6-7 at the top, and underneath I wrote “Prayer List.”

The first entry was “purchase of a home in 2023- that God will open a door and provide the resources. That everything is done decently, in order, and doesn’t create a burden/curse on me financially.”

Since 2018, I have committed to a debt-free lifestyle, living below my means, and increasing my savings rate for future purchases or goals. I didn’t want a house that I couldn’t make a home due to most of my income going to a mortgage. I also adhere to a minimal lifestyle, so I didn’t want anything too big that would require more management and care.

With this current housing market, any hopes I had of purchasing a home in my area disappeared like cotton candy on my tongue. I also knew I couldn’t keep renting in my area due to increasing rental rates and almost half of my net income going to a landlord.

One weekend in March this year, I visited our family’s farm in the country and through conversation, my great-aunt offered to allow me to live in one of her dwellings on our property rent-free. I wanted to get back to country living years ago but didn’t try to move forward out of fear of the unknown and other factors in my life.

When going back through old journal entries, I found the one from 2021 and my jaw dropped. I saw how the Lord answered my prayer in an unexpected way. Sure, this move will have its challenges due to co-parenting and transitioning from city to country life; however, I’m amazed at how everything has fallen into place seamlessly.

A song came to my remembrance that I listened to a lot in college called “Lookin’ out for me” by Kirk Franklin. God’s faithfulness to me remains beautifully unfathomable. In spite of me, he continues to take care of me. My life has seen many struggles, but he continues to give me strength to endure along with a peace of mind.

I don’t know what you’re seeking God for this year, but know he is working out everything for your good and in his timing. Continue to trust him and seek him first in all you do.