Do not call to mind the former things or ponder things of the past. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth. (Isaiah 43:18-19)
The Lord gave me the above verse in January 2002, during a time of great spiritual failure and recovery. I had no idea what God had in store for me at the time, but I knew it would be something new and wonderful. Not long after I met Joseph (then known to me as JJ). We met at Café Crema on March 1, 2002. This café is a popular hangout for Deaf and signing people on Friday nights. What I noticed about Joseph instantly was that he was joyful, sincere and bold to share his faith. He asked me to tell my testimony in front of a bunch of people, and although he was previously in a hurry to leave, he stayed listening attentively to my story. Thus began our first of many late night conversations. Our interest for each other grew rapidly, as did other fine young men’s interest for me at the time. After many months of struggling to know God’s will and wrestling with my own fears and desires, the Lord spoke to me from Song of Solomon 3:4, as we were planning a trip to my parents house.
I found the one that my soul loves; I held onto him and would not let him go, until I brought him to my to the house of my mother.
The Lord was saying to me, “Nicole, do you love Joseph?” In my heart I could say, “Yes, I love him.” The Lord said, “Then, do not let him go.” So, I have not let go of the one my soul loves. It was February 8th when we were engaged. Eight is the number for new beginnings. We look to God for the new things He will do with and within us.