'Don't you know things can change? Things'll go your way, if you hold on for one more day. Can you hold on?' These are lyrics from a song but it can also be a life mantra. It's all about trusting in all circumstances that it is for our good.
Psalm 30;5 ''For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.''
We shouldn't ask God to take away our 'thorn' but instead ask for His favor. We may get frustrated and be at the end of our rope but that's where you trust more in God's will than your own. God will catch you or give you wings to fly.
Can you think of hardships that you've gone through to get to the blessing? I can think of many but I'll just give one example. My summer of 1986 began with back surgery, a week in the hospital and two months of recovery. Yes, not exactly a summer dream. I knew to hold on for better days that lie ahead. The blessing has been a life long favor of better breathing, body support by the rods, and no back pain.
So when I think of current sufferings, I reflect on God's faithfulness in my past and HOLD ON. Psalm 23;4 ''Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.''
I did not think about the stainless steel rods in your back being the ones referred to in Psalms 23. That was a tough summer however it was what you needed at the time, and we are glad that was a success for you.
ReplyDeleteSometimes it is difficult to hold on when we doubt what is around the corner, but I am reminded that "all things work for the good of those who love the Lord". Dad
Keep on holding on, Angie. We all need your strength. I thought of that song, "He's Not Heavy; He's My Brother," and it reminds me of how much you hold so many of us up with your words of wisdom and strength. How those little arms can hold up so many, I don't know. But God does; He's the one who strengthens you.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post. You are such an example of this. I was thinking about you last night and how you live life so much more fully than most people without your challenges. You are one who looks ahead, not holds onto the present or dwells in the past.
ReplyDeleteAngie, You again inspire me to do what you do. Thanks for continuing your blog. I hope you are staying free from the perils of fall. Have a great day. Joel
ReplyDeleteAngie you are such an inspiration to all. Your faith and strength are amazing. I have so little to complain about, yet I tend to grumble. God must surely grow weary with me at times. Thank you for your reminder to thank God for all our blessings no matter how small and praise Him for all the good he has done in our lives. I have much to praise Him for. Robbie
ReplyDeleteYou, indeed, are one who holds on....and one we all admire so much. Just as everyone has stated above, what an inspiration you are to all of us! So many times we look back and see where adversity has caused us to grow closer to God and His Word. We all want His favor, and He has shown it to me SO MANY TIMES; we just don't always realize that He is giving it to us in the tough times, too...by drawing us to Him. Love you, sweet friend....keep holding on! We need you.....T.
ReplyDelete