
Difficulties after difficulties. It has been a roller-coaster ride for me. Uncertainties of every tomorrow can be overwhelming. Sometimes fear and worry just come crashing down, and unsettle me emotionally and mentally. It has been truly a test of faith for me, but also an opportunity for spiritual growth.
Ever since I started applying for a teaching position in USA, I am succumbed with mixed feelings — excitement, worry, hope, fear, happiness, and sadness. It is like a jar of mixed flavored candies that you don’t know which candy you will be picking every day. Only you don’t get to pick it by choice, it is served to you as it is.
I was hired and I flew 16 hours to USA last June 2025. As you may have already thought, I am really having a hard time adjusting to a new workplace, new culture, and at the same time I miss my family. On the positive side, working here is really a blessing because I am learning A LOT of new things. And above all, experiencing the difficulties enable me to put my dependence on God. It is really a journey of faith and trust. So, the difficulties after difficulties are faithfulness after faithfulness of God.

I am also thankful to have been able to meet and join a community of believers. The church has been a respite and comfort for me. They have been a source of encouragement as they faithfully support me and other teachers not only with their presence and counsel, but also through the Word of God that they faithfully teach us.
It is hard. It is difficult. Oftentimes, it is a lonely road to walk on. I sometimes say to my husband, I jusy want to go back home, but it was just out of my need for comfort. Through all the hardships, I see the faithful hand of God, lifting me up and sustaining me daily. Yes, He works all things for my good, even through the painful ones.
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
– Romans 8:28 (WEB)
My encouragement to you today is to keep trusting God no matter how diffficult your situation is. God remains faithful.
©️2025 Deborah Agustin




