Introduction
There are moments in life when we feel as though the weight of the world is pressing down on us—when grief, pain, and hardship threaten to steal our hope. I know those moments well. I have walked through deep valleys, faced unimaginable loss, and endured heartache that felt impossible to survive. But through it all, one thing has remained true: God has never left me.
Deuteronomy 31:8 (KJV) – “And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.”
This book is not just my story—it is a testimony of God’s faithfulness, a testament to the power of His grace, and a reminder that no matter how broken we feel, there is healing, restoration, and purpose on the other side of our pain.
Psalm 34:18 (KJV) – “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
If you are reading this book, chances are you have faced your own struggles—maybe you have endured abuse, loss, betrayal, or sorrow that still lingers in the corners of your soul. Maybe you’re wondering if God still sees you, if He still cares. Let me assure you—He does. He is near to the brokenhearted, and He longs to heal and restore you.
Through these pages, I share my journey—the trials that tested my faith, the grief that nearly consumed me, and the miracles that reminded me God was always in control. I have learned that our scars tell a story—not of defeat, but of survival, strength, and God's redeeming love.
Isaiah 41:10 (KJV) – “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
There were times I felt unworthy of God’s love, times I questioned why I had to endure so much pain. But even in my lowest moments, His grace sustained me. God is not looking for perfect people—He is looking for the broken, the weary, the lost, so He can make them whole again.
Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV) – “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
Isaiah 61:3 (KJV) – “To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.”
This book is my beauty for ashes. It is my testimony that even in our darkest moments, God is working all things for good.
Romans 8:28 (KJV) – “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
I invite you to journey with me—to walk through the valleys, to witness the miracles, and to see how God’s love has transformed my life. My prayer is that as you read, you will be reminded of this simple but powerful truth: You are never alone. God is with you, and He will carry you through.
Psalm 46:1 (KJV) – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
This book is not just about my past—it is about your future. It is about finding hope, choosing faith, and trusting that no matter what you have endured, God has a plan for your life.
Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV) – “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
So, take a deep breath. Open your heart. And let’s walk this journey together—from pain to purpose, from sorrow to joy, from valleys to victory.
With love and faith,
Sarah M. Skaggs