Faith and stuggle

Hebrews 11:1-3 1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. My hope is that through this tuff year that my family will grow closer to God and that our faith will increase. Also that we will know what God is wanting us to learn. Some very hard choices have had to be made and some heartbreaking incidents have happend. I pray that we continue to seek God and to honor him. Seeking God appears to be evident as Jordan is currently in Romania seeking and serving God, Daniel will be going off to Asbury, I am praying more than in a long time, and Howard is totally trusting God and seeing Gods hand at work. I have prayed about the issues that we have had to deal with this year and God has shown me the following verses. First I have to say when Howard and I were engaged we made some choices that have protected us and helped us throughout the years. We would always open our home, never cosingn a loan for anyone and we would never loan anyone money unless we were in agreement. We have added to that - we would not expect it to be paid back. So we do not loan anyone money unless we can feel that it is a gift. 2 Corinthians 9:7-11 7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. 9 As it is written: “ He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.”10 Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 11 while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God. We have truly had to trust God that there is a reason and purpose for the things that have gone on this year. Romans 8:27-28 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. We do love God and we are called according to his purpose. Does this mean we are perfect- no. It means that our hearts desire is to follow God and we strive to glorify HIM.