God made everything beautiful in its time.

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A year ago, I’ve experienced one of the happiest moments in my life. I got engaged with my boyfriend of 11 years. And until now, I’m still amazed how God made everything beautiful in its time (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

I admit that I’m an impatient and control freak type of person. I love planning, either for work or for my personal life. I remember that 2-3 years ago, I feel I’m already ready to get married. Wala lang, just gut feel and maybe I started to fall into the trap of envy since most of my friends and batchmates are engaged and married.  Yes, the #StruggleIsReal!

I recall there were some people who even suggested me to propose instead, that it’s the ‘in’ thing now. But I’m always reminded to not put the timeline in my hands, instead to God.

There was also a time I was planning for an out-of-the-country vacation, I thought that he may use that opportunity to propose to me. But guess what, God didn’t allow my desperation to happen since we’re both financially broken. Haha!

Plenty of times during reunions, either relatives or friends, people were asking, “Ilang years na ba kayo? Bakit di pa kayo nagpapakasal?” To be honest, those added up to the pressure and insecurity in me.

BUT, God is faithful in his promises that He has beautiful plans for us. Looking back, He used those 2-3 years to silently work in our character.

Erwin bravely resigned from his corporate employer to pursue his passion and start his training company. He had more quality time with his family, had more time to attend in Sunday Service, joined his own discipleship group, and had his church ministry. [In hindsight, he is building relationship with God, obeying HIS plans for him, and preparing to be a soon-to-be-spiritual leader.]

As for me, God was working on my patience, strengthened faith on his plans, and learned to submit to Him  who controls everything. It was a journey of waiting, praying, and trusting God. Those 2-3 years were also the best moments of my life. I became closer with my parents and had our weekly #sundate (church, dinner date, groceries, etc.). Joined in a new company and the time allowed me to adjust. I’ve also started leading my own discipleship group. I also had a privilege to initiate a simple charity project called SPARK Up! to empower youth leaders.

Then, exactly a year ago, he finally proposed in the most unexpected, romantic way I’ve never imagined. That night, I felt nothing but God’s love — His wide, deep, high, abounding love, that yes I don’t deserve.

Had he proposed 2-3 years ago? Maybe we might have missed those blessings and the amazing opportunity to grow our faith and character as we start building our own family.

We’re still both a work in progress with so many things to improve on BUT one thing is for sure, we have a perfect God who has better plans for us, if we are just willing to patiently wait, have faith in His promises, and trust Him in every single aspect of our lives.