Reflections on God's Faithfulness

As 2026 begins, I reflect on God’s consistent faithfulness, which I’ve seen not only in my life but also among loved ones. Through prayer and seeking God, we have experienced His presence and guidance in various situations.

Scripture reminds us of this truth. Psalm 46:1 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (NIV). Similarly, the Holman Christian Standard Bible affirms, “God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble.” These verses have continually encouraged us and reminded us of God’s enduring faithfulness.

Encouragement Through Shared Stories

I want to share three stories from our experiences with you. I hope that these accounts will strengthen your faith and provide encouragement, especially during times when the path ahead seems uncertain or when you’re facing long-term challenges. May these reflections inspire you to trust in God’s ongoing faithfulness, even when difficulties arise.

Story One: Learning Through Unexpected Assignments

In the final five years before my retirement, I was given an additional full-time assignment on top of the full-time responsibilities I was originally hired for. At the time, I had only about forty percent of the knowledge required for this new role.

I assumed that I would receive training or an orientation. However, my only interaction with the outgoing manager was at the farewell party, leaving me without the guidance I had expected.

Despite my assumptions, God provided help in a different way. He placed seven individuals around me—peers, friends, and my husband - each of whom contributed a vital piece of the puzzle from their backgrounds, that I needed to solve. The support system God gave me was completely different from what I had anticipated. Through this experience, I was reminded that “wisdom is supreme - so get wisdom. And whatever else you get, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7 HCSB). These words uplifted me during times when collaboration was essential. I learned that drawing on the collective wisdom of others is crucial. If you are facing a challenge today, consider whether you are seeking help from only one source, while God may have other resources available to you.

Story Two: Facing Upgrades and Transitions

My husband also encountered challenges, particularly during the eighteen months before his retirement in July 2025. During this period, he had to manage multiple software and server upgrades. These experiences further demonstrated God’s faithfulness as he navigated the tight timelines, learned new programming and data analytics information, trained others, and spearheaded the server upgrade.

James 5:16c says that the heartfelt prayer of a righteous person is powerful. He needed to find a replacement. A prayer friend asked if he knew anyone; when I said we'd discussed it, she insisted he already did. She decreed right then that God would show Darnell who would succeed him. Later that morning, a prayer friend in another state agreed. Within 24 hours, Darnell spoke unexpectedly with a casual acquaintance whose background matched perfectly. The friend received the job offer after three candidates were interviewed!

Firm expectations are essential in prayer. Though we believe doubts can arise when discussing issues. Let's be mindful of our thoughts in 2026.

Story Three: Healing

I strained my right elbow after descending downstairs with a laundry detergent bottle during a snow event. Despite prayer (Proverbs 3:8, “It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones”) - and self-care, the pain persisted for months until I began physical therapy. After several sessions, the therapist adjusted my elbow, and we heard it snap into place. Now, I appreciate being able to use my arm without pain. Does something you face seem long-term? Please do not give up hope. 

Calls to Action:

1.       What can you implement from the stories above that will propel your faith in 2026?

2.       Purchase Fully Persuaded Faith or Live Abundantly on www.marilynnjames.com for

additional faith stories.