Chosen on Purpose: Carley’s Story of Redemption, Courage, and Unexpected Joy
Every once in a while, you hear a story that makes you stop and remember that God specializes in rewriting what we thought was the end. This week, meet Carley and her daughter, Anyston, lovingly called Annie. Carley is a devoted mama of two with another little blessing on the way, and her testimony is proof that even the most broken roads can lead to beautiful destinations.
7/15/20252 min read
Meet Carley: She is a huge reader who thrifts and sells used books for fun. One of her favorite simple joys is sitting on the porch with Annie, sipping coffee and reading together. Honestly, that sounds like the kind of slow, meaningful life people spend years trying to create.
Carley’s Story And How She Found Freedom
“My pregnancy was not an accident. I was nineteen and in an abusive relationship with no plans for the future. I felt like a failure to everyone and completely alone. I thought having a baby would do two things: make him love and respect me more, and make me a hero in someone’s eyes.
Halfway through my pregnancy, I realized the ‘mistake’ I thought I had made and faced a decision: abortion or no. My parents were disappointed, my friends moved on, and my grandmother wouldn’t speak to me. He still hurt me. I could ‘solve the problem’ by making it go away, but instead I remembered that I could be her hero. I could be loved. I could be perfect. Selfish, but true.
When Anyston Grace arrived, I knew she was NO mistake. God saved me through her.
It wasn’t easy. I worked multiple jobs, struggled with postpartum depression, and found myself in another abusive relationship. I remember begging God and being angry with Him, asking why He wouldn’t send someone to love me.
Not long after, He sent me JB, my husband. Annie deserves him, but sometimes I’m not sure I do.
I was saved and baptized in 2023.”
What is one piece of advice you would give a mother in a similar situation?
“Place your faith and trust in Jesus. Remember, you are a mom, and you are perfect to your baby. That baby was handpicked for you. God turns all bad things into good.”
What quotes or scriptures have helped you?
Song: Firm Foundation by Maverick City Music
“I’ve still got joy in chaos. I’ve got peace that makes no sense.”
Song; Egypt by CAIN “God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise. God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.” 1 Corinthians 1:27
“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you…” Jeremiah 1:5
Carley, thank you for bravely sharing your story. We are so proud of you. 🤍