Posts
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Healing is in Your Hand sung by Christy Nockels
This morning, I'm enjoying a worship song based upon Romans 8:37-39. "In all things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us...." Let this truth wash over your soul as you listen to it.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Through the Valley
Yesterday, I was struggling with fear and dread about my upcoming surgery, scheduled for Tuesday, October 19th. Fearing the surgeon will find more cancer in my body while he's performing my hysterectomy. Fearing that ovarian cancer will be discovered before my ovaries are removed to prevent the disease. Crazy I know, but once you've had cancer the lens in which you view your health is changed forever.
I sought the Scriptures to combat my dread and fear. This morning as I was reading from a devotional by C.H. Spurgeon, I read four of his writings about the 23rd Psalm.
This is a familiar Psalm known as the "Shepherd Psalm." It's one often used at the end of life. I've heard it read at funerals to reassure the grieving who gather to remember a loved one.
What struck me today, was in verse 4, where it says, "Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect me and comfort me." (New Living Translation)
C.H. Spurgeon writes, "Although this promise is applicable to the dying, it is also for the living. If you are depressed by any difficult trial, then you are walking through the valley of death-shade." Notice the words are not in future tense; they are present - for TODAY - this very moment.
In 'The Twenty-third Psalm, An Interpretation,' by Charles L. Allen, "The valley of the shadow of death" refers to more than the actual experience of physical death. It has been translated as "the glen of gloom." It may be applicable to every hard and terrifying experience in life."
Are you dreading a forbidding journey? Are you in a dark place in life that you must pass through? Are you anguished because sickness is undermining your health? Death is certainly one of those forbidding journeys, but what about disappointment, loneliness, depression, trauma and pain? There are several others.
Wherever our pathway leads, we need not fear. Why? "For He is close beside us." There is power in Christ's presence. Let's not reserve this verse for our last day, but use it to combat our present day fears. He IS with us through every valley in life as our protector and comforter.
Psalm 23:4 - "Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect me and comfort me." (New Living Translation)
I sought the Scriptures to combat my dread and fear. This morning as I was reading from a devotional by C.H. Spurgeon, I read four of his writings about the 23rd Psalm.
This is a familiar Psalm known as the "Shepherd Psalm." It's one often used at the end of life. I've heard it read at funerals to reassure the grieving who gather to remember a loved one.
What struck me today, was in verse 4, where it says, "Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect me and comfort me." (New Living Translation)
C.H. Spurgeon writes, "Although this promise is applicable to the dying, it is also for the living. If you are depressed by any difficult trial, then you are walking through the valley of death-shade." Notice the words are not in future tense; they are present - for TODAY - this very moment.
In 'The Twenty-third Psalm, An Interpretation,' by Charles L. Allen, "The valley of the shadow of death" refers to more than the actual experience of physical death. It has been translated as "the glen of gloom." It may be applicable to every hard and terrifying experience in life."
Are you dreading a forbidding journey? Are you in a dark place in life that you must pass through? Are you anguished because sickness is undermining your health? Death is certainly one of those forbidding journeys, but what about disappointment, loneliness, depression, trauma and pain? There are several others.
Wherever our pathway leads, we need not fear. Why? "For He is close beside us." There is power in Christ's presence. Let's not reserve this verse for our last day, but use it to combat our present day fears. He IS with us through every valley in life as our protector and comforter.
Psalm 23:4 - "Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect me and comfort me." (New Living Translation)
Saturday, September 25, 2010
So...How's Terri Doin?
My husband, Rob has grown to dislike the question, "So, how's Terri doin?" It's such a loaded question. You'd think it would be pretty easy to answer since it's been nearly 18 months since I finished my chemo therapy for breast cancer.
Well...part of my treatment plan includes a drug I take daily for five years. Because the breast cancer I had was estrogen fed, I have been prescribed an estrogen blocker called, tamoxifen.
Upon my return to Mayo Clinic in recent weeks, I shared with my oncologist the struggle I was having with fatigue and depression. Come to find out, some of the side effects from tamoxifen can be fatigue and depression. For a small percentage of women who have preexisting depression, it causes depression to worsen. I have discovered I am in that small percentage. This summer has been rough. The fatigue and depressive state I've been in has clouded my view of life.
Thankfully, my oncologist has allowed me to take a reprieve from this drug for a few weeks. In a matter of 10 days off tamoxifen my energy level has improved and my view of life is brighter. I am thankful to have an explanation for the way I was feeling. I was beginning to worry I had cancer lurking somewhere else in my body due to the fatigue & depression that was weighing me down.
Also, during my visit at Mayo Clinic on September 14th, I met with a surgeon about a second opinion for a hysterectomy. The surgeon put it this way, "You're a walking time bomb. Since you've had stage 1 breast cancer, you have family history of breast AND ovarian cancer, plus a BRAC gene mutation, you're at the highest risk factor for ovarian cancer. It's not a matter of IF you should have the surgery, but WHEN to have it done. The sooner the better." How's that for a clear direction?
My hysterectomy is scheduled for Tuesday, October 19th. It will be laproscopic surgery so my surgery recovery will be shorter, however it will throw me into menopause abruptly. My GYN warned my husband and I of the hormonal jolt that will occur. Please pray for my adjustment to this next phase of my treatment plan to reduce my risk factors for breast & ovarian cancer.
That's the long, honest answer to the question, "How's Terri doin?"
Breast cancer treatment doesn't end with chemo or radiation for many women. The road can be long. The road can be steep, but there is hope because of the progress that has been made in the treatment of this disease. Early detection, is a key. I'm a living example of that. October is breast cancer awareness month, it's around the corner. Schedule your annual mammogram, ladies. It could save your life, it did mine.
Well...part of my treatment plan includes a drug I take daily for five years. Because the breast cancer I had was estrogen fed, I have been prescribed an estrogen blocker called, tamoxifen.
Upon my return to Mayo Clinic in recent weeks, I shared with my oncologist the struggle I was having with fatigue and depression. Come to find out, some of the side effects from tamoxifen can be fatigue and depression. For a small percentage of women who have preexisting depression, it causes depression to worsen. I have discovered I am in that small percentage. This summer has been rough. The fatigue and depressive state I've been in has clouded my view of life.
Thankfully, my oncologist has allowed me to take a reprieve from this drug for a few weeks. In a matter of 10 days off tamoxifen my energy level has improved and my view of life is brighter. I am thankful to have an explanation for the way I was feeling. I was beginning to worry I had cancer lurking somewhere else in my body due to the fatigue & depression that was weighing me down.
Also, during my visit at Mayo Clinic on September 14th, I met with a surgeon about a second opinion for a hysterectomy. The surgeon put it this way, "You're a walking time bomb. Since you've had stage 1 breast cancer, you have family history of breast AND ovarian cancer, plus a BRAC gene mutation, you're at the highest risk factor for ovarian cancer. It's not a matter of IF you should have the surgery, but WHEN to have it done. The sooner the better." How's that for a clear direction?
My hysterectomy is scheduled for Tuesday, October 19th. It will be laproscopic surgery so my surgery recovery will be shorter, however it will throw me into menopause abruptly. My GYN warned my husband and I of the hormonal jolt that will occur. Please pray for my adjustment to this next phase of my treatment plan to reduce my risk factors for breast & ovarian cancer.
That's the long, honest answer to the question, "How's Terri doin?"
Breast cancer treatment doesn't end with chemo or radiation for many women. The road can be long. The road can be steep, but there is hope because of the progress that has been made in the treatment of this disease. Early detection, is a key. I'm a living example of that. October is breast cancer awareness month, it's around the corner. Schedule your annual mammogram, ladies. It could save your life, it did mine.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Rest
This morning, I read this quote by Kay Arthur that I could identify with. It said, "Even when I've been weak, to the place of tears, I've found rest. Rest in the promises of our Father. Rest in the assurance that nothing depends on me. It all depends on Him. I'm simply to trust and obey, to be still and know He is God.
In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for you souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Pastor John Miller, once gave a sermon on this topic of rest, using the text above. He defined rest as a relationship with God, established by a lifting of a burden. He added, "Rest results in love for Christ which entices us to listen and respond to God's commands and faithfully live them out."
I take that to mean, resting is a releasing of my burdens to the One who is able to carry them all. Resting requires the desire to know God, to listen to His Word, then respond and live out His promises so that the world may know Him through us.
Psalm 46:10 - Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for you souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Pastor John Miller, once gave a sermon on this topic of rest, using the text above. He defined rest as a relationship with God, established by a lifting of a burden. He added, "Rest results in love for Christ which entices us to listen and respond to God's commands and faithfully live them out."
I take that to mean, resting is a releasing of my burdens to the One who is able to carry them all. Resting requires the desire to know God, to listen to His Word, then respond and live out His promises so that the world may know Him through us.
Psalm 46:10 - Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Waiting Time Is Not Wasted Time
This morning, I read a poem titled, 'Waiting,' from the book, Satisfy My Thirsty Soul by Linda Dillow that reinforced a comment a friend of mine made to me in recent weeks, "Waiting time is not wasted time."
Waiting by Linda Dillow
Desparately, helplessly, longingly I cried
Quietly, patiently, lovingly God replied.
I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate.
And the Master so gently said, "Child you must wait!"
"Wait? You say, wait!" my indignant reply.
"Lord, I need answers. I need to know why!
Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heart?
By faith I have asked, and am claiming your Word."
"My future and all to which I can relate
Hangs in the balance and you tell me to wait?
I'm needing a yes, a go-ahead sign,
Or even a no to which I can resign."
"And Lord, you promised that if we believe
We need but to ask, and we shall receive
And Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry,
I'm weary of asking! I need a reply."
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate
As my Master replied once again, "You must wait."
So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut
And grumbled to God, "So I'm waiting ....for what?"
He seemed then to kneel and His eyes wept with mine,
And he tenderly said, "I could give you a sign.
I could shake the heavens and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.
All you seek, I could give and pleased you would be
You would have what you want,
but you wouldn't know Me.
You'd not know the depth of my love for each saint.
You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.
You'd not learn to see through the clouds of despair.
You'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there.
You'd not know the joy of resting in me
When darkness and silence were all you could see.
You'd never experience that fullness of love
As the peace of my Spirit descends like a dove.
You'd know that I give and I save...(for a start).
But you'd not know the depth of the beat of my heart.
The glow of my comfort late into the night
The faith that I give when you walk without sight.
The depth that's beyond getting just what you asked
Of an infinite God who makes what you have last.
You'd never know should your pain quickly flee,
What it means that 'My grace is sufficient for thee.'
Yes, your dreams for your loved ones overnight would come true,
But, oh the loss! If I lost what I'm doing in you!
So be silent, my child and in time you will see
that the greatest of gifts is to get to know me
And though oft may my answers seem terribly late.
My wisest of answers is still but to wait."
Micah 7:7 - But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
Waiting by Linda Dillow
Desparately, helplessly, longingly I cried
Quietly, patiently, lovingly God replied.
I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate.
And the Master so gently said, "Child you must wait!"
"Wait? You say, wait!" my indignant reply.
"Lord, I need answers. I need to know why!
Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heart?
By faith I have asked, and am claiming your Word."
"My future and all to which I can relate
Hangs in the balance and you tell me to wait?
I'm needing a yes, a go-ahead sign,
Or even a no to which I can resign."
"And Lord, you promised that if we believe
We need but to ask, and we shall receive
And Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry,
I'm weary of asking! I need a reply."
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate
As my Master replied once again, "You must wait."
So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut
And grumbled to God, "So I'm waiting ....for what?"
He seemed then to kneel and His eyes wept with mine,
And he tenderly said, "I could give you a sign.
I could shake the heavens and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.
All you seek, I could give and pleased you would be
You would have what you want,
but you wouldn't know Me.
You'd not know the depth of my love for each saint.
You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.
You'd not learn to see through the clouds of despair.
You'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there.
You'd not know the joy of resting in me
When darkness and silence were all you could see.
You'd never experience that fullness of love
As the peace of my Spirit descends like a dove.
You'd know that I give and I save...(for a start).
But you'd not know the depth of the beat of my heart.
The glow of my comfort late into the night
The faith that I give when you walk without sight.
The depth that's beyond getting just what you asked
Of an infinite God who makes what you have last.
You'd never know should your pain quickly flee,
What it means that 'My grace is sufficient for thee.'
Yes, your dreams for your loved ones overnight would come true,
But, oh the loss! If I lost what I'm doing in you!
So be silent, my child and in time you will see
that the greatest of gifts is to get to know me
And though oft may my answers seem terribly late.
My wisest of answers is still but to wait."
Micah 7:7 - But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
Friday, August 20, 2010
What's So Good About Suffering - Part 5
This week I've had interactions with two young women (both in their 20's), one is battling hodgkins lymphoma, while the other is dealing with crohn's disease. They both are struggling with the limitations from their illnesses and the "new normal" of their lives. They are learning how to live life with the rude reality that comes from these diseases. I can empathize to a degree, given my recent battle with breast cancer, but not entirely. Each of our experiences with suffering is unique. Yet, we share one thing in common - our diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and future are in the hands of Someone greater than us. Our hope is in Jesus. We have a guaranteed promise that when we put our hope in Him, we will not be disappointed, as it is written in Isaiah 49:23 - Then you will know that I am the LORD; those who hope in me will not be disappointed.
Suffering has a way of causing a person to look beyond the pain to a time and place where there is no more suffering. No matter the impact these dreadful diseases have on our mortal bodies, we can cast out fear of death because of our eternal hope through Christ. None of us may have yearned for heaven as readily or frequently if we had escaped the pain of these diseases. Yet, we can set our hearts, minds and souls on Heaven with this confident assurance:
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." - Revelation 12:4
Until that day comes, Lord Jesus, I pray each of us will grow in our yearning for You, the Creator of life, who has intimate knowledge of every cell in our bodies. May we trust You with our medical treatments. Guide us and help us to make wise choices that feed our bodies, minds and spirits for Your glory. Keep us from putting our trust and hope in anything but You, the Giver & Sustainer of our lives. May we yearn for You more and more, as we await the day when we join you in heaven. In Jesus Name I ask this. AMEN.
Suffering has a way of causing a person to look beyond the pain to a time and place where there is no more suffering. No matter the impact these dreadful diseases have on our mortal bodies, we can cast out fear of death because of our eternal hope through Christ. None of us may have yearned for heaven as readily or frequently if we had escaped the pain of these diseases. Yet, we can set our hearts, minds and souls on Heaven with this confident assurance:
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." - Revelation 12:4
Until that day comes, Lord Jesus, I pray each of us will grow in our yearning for You, the Creator of life, who has intimate knowledge of every cell in our bodies. May we trust You with our medical treatments. Guide us and help us to make wise choices that feed our bodies, minds and spirits for Your glory. Keep us from putting our trust and hope in anything but You, the Giver & Sustainer of our lives. May we yearn for You more and more, as we await the day when we join you in heaven. In Jesus Name I ask this. AMEN.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
What's So Good About Suffering? - Part 4
In recent weeks, I have struggled with accepting the physical limitations I am experiencing since receiving treatment for breast cancer, that included chemotherapy and multiple surgeries. I've been frustrated with the rate in which my energy and stamina is building. I didn't anticipate feeling fatigue, brain fog and depression, 18 months after my initial diagnosis.
I'm having to learn to say "no" to certain activities that I really don't want to, but my body is telling me otherwise. As I've wrestled with God about my discontentment, the phrase 'My grace is sufficient,' keeps coming to mind. This phrase is found in II Corinthians 12:7-10. As I read it from The Message version this week, I was comforted. It says:
"...I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan's angel did his best to get me down, what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty! At first, I didn't think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, then he told me, 'My grace is enough; it's all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness. Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size - abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks, I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get the stronger I become."
After reading this passage, I realized some of the benefits of my limitations. First of all, I have been brought to my knees. I may not be able to do as much physically, but I can always pray. I may pray to God in my need and for the needs of others.
These limitations I am experiencing are humbling me. They are causing me to constantly turn to God for strength vs. my own energy or effort.
In admitting my weakness and need for God's strength, it deepens my worship and affirms God's strength.
Please pray with me and for me that I will quit focusing on the limitations, and accept these changes as a gift. A gift that draws me closer to Christ so that His strength may shine through me, not my own energy or efforts.
Romans 12:12 - Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer.
I'm having to learn to say "no" to certain activities that I really don't want to, but my body is telling me otherwise. As I've wrestled with God about my discontentment, the phrase 'My grace is sufficient,' keeps coming to mind. This phrase is found in II Corinthians 12:7-10. As I read it from The Message version this week, I was comforted. It says:
"...I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan's angel did his best to get me down, what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty! At first, I didn't think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, then he told me, 'My grace is enough; it's all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness. Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size - abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks, I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get the stronger I become."
After reading this passage, I realized some of the benefits of my limitations. First of all, I have been brought to my knees. I may not be able to do as much physically, but I can always pray. I may pray to God in my need and for the needs of others.
These limitations I am experiencing are humbling me. They are causing me to constantly turn to God for strength vs. my own energy or effort.
In admitting my weakness and need for God's strength, it deepens my worship and affirms God's strength.
Please pray with me and for me that I will quit focusing on the limitations, and accept these changes as a gift. A gift that draws me closer to Christ so that His strength may shine through me, not my own energy or efforts.
Romans 12:12 - Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer.
If I Hadn't
I've been thinking about the "story" of my life and how God has ordained each and every day of my life. I've been wrestling with the Lord about the numerous trials I've had in my life. I know they are part of the refining process that the Lord has and is using to shape me into the likeness of His Son, Jesus, but some days it is hard to accept them as a gift. Some days I wish my "story" was written differently than it is.
The phrase "If I hadn't" came to my mind this evening. If I hadn't experienced a certain trial then what? What would I have missed or not learned without that pain.
Below I've written a short phrase of some of the trials I've experienced and contrasted it with a benefit that came from it.
If I hadn't been abandoned
I may not have discovered One who will never leave me or forsake me
If I hadn't experienced shame
I may not have turned from my sin and received forgiveness
If I hadn't been spat on
I may not have learned to turn the other cheek
If I hadn't experienced unfaithfulness,
I may not have experienced His great faithfulness
If I hadn't experienced divorce
I may not have met the perfect Bridegroom
If I hadn't been a single mother
I may not have learned to depend on my Father in heaven
If I hadn't experienced bankruptcy
I may not have found my Greatest Treasure
If I hadn't been desperately alone
I may not have found my Sweetest Companion
If I hadn't experienced rejection
I may not have learned humility
If I hadn't experienced depression
I may not have turned to His marvelous Light
If I hadn't grieved the loss of a loved one
I may not have have experienced the fullness of joy,
knowing they are in heaven
If I hadn't experienced the rejection of man
I may not have admitted the idol of my heart, acceptance of man
If I hadn't grieved the loss of a dream
I may not have put my hope on eternity
If I hadn't had breast cancer
I may not have have shared in physical suffering
or discovered new mercies every day
If I hadn't experienced these trials
I may not have realized my deep need for Christ
nor experienced the most profound love of my life
The phrase "If I hadn't" came to my mind this evening. If I hadn't experienced a certain trial then what? What would I have missed or not learned without that pain.
Below I've written a short phrase of some of the trials I've experienced and contrasted it with a benefit that came from it.
If I hadn't been abandoned
I may not have discovered One who will never leave me or forsake me
If I hadn't experienced shame
I may not have turned from my sin and received forgiveness
If I hadn't been spat on
I may not have learned to turn the other cheek
If I hadn't experienced unfaithfulness,
I may not have experienced His great faithfulness
If I hadn't experienced divorce
I may not have met the perfect Bridegroom
If I hadn't been a single mother
I may not have learned to depend on my Father in heaven
If I hadn't experienced bankruptcy
I may not have found my Greatest Treasure
If I hadn't been desperately alone
I may not have found my Sweetest Companion
If I hadn't experienced rejection
I may not have learned humility
If I hadn't experienced depression
I may not have turned to His marvelous Light
If I hadn't grieved the loss of a loved one
I may not have have experienced the fullness of joy,
knowing they are in heaven
If I hadn't experienced the rejection of man
I may not have admitted the idol of my heart, acceptance of man
If I hadn't grieved the loss of a dream
I may not have put my hope on eternity
If I hadn't had breast cancer
I may not have have shared in physical suffering
or discovered new mercies every day
If I hadn't experienced these trials
I may not have realized my deep need for Christ
nor experienced the most profound love of my life
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
The message behind 'Healing Begins'
James 5:16 - Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other SO THAT you may be healed.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Someday by Michael W. Smith
I KNOW
THERE'S A PRAYER FLOWING FROM
THE LONGING
FOR THE HEALING TO COME
SOMEDAY
NO MORE DARK, ACHING NIGHTS
SOMEDAY
I WILL OPEN MY EYES
THE LIGHT WILL COME
AND I WILL SET YOU FREE
SOMETIMES
THERE’S A JOY IN THE PAIN
SOMETIMES
PEACE THAT CAN’T BE EXPLAINED
SOME FIND
A LONGING THERE IN THEIR SOUL
SOMEDAY
I WILL MAKE ALL THINGS WHOLE
I PROMISE TO
SET THE CHILDREN FREE
SOMEDAY
YOU’LL FIND A PLACE IN THE SUN
SOMEDAY
WHEN ALL HEARTS BEAT AS ONE
YOU’LL SING
WITH THE HEART OF A CHILD
SOMEDAY
WHEN THE RIVER RUNS WILD
MY FATHER COMES
TO SET HIS CHILDREN FREE
SOME SAY IT’S A VISION
SOME SAY IT’S JUST A DREAM
I SAY IT’S A PROMISE
A COVENANT, A DESTINY
I WILL COME TO SET MY CHILDREN FREE
SOMEDAY
WHAT THE YOUNG ONES HAVE DREAMED
SOMEDAY
ALL YOU’VE HOPED AND BELIEVED
WILL BE
YOU WILL ALL UNDERSTAND
THE LONGING
PLACED INSIDE EVERY MAN
OVERCOMES THE WORLD
AND SETS THE CHILDREN FREE
AND I WILL COME
TO SET MY CHILDREN FREE
SOMEDAY
WE WILL SEE
WE WILL SEE YOU
SOMEDAY
In loving memory of my daddy, Allan Jorth.
THERE'S A PRAYER FLOWING FROM
THE LONGING
FOR THE HEALING TO COME
SOMEDAY
NO MORE DARK, ACHING NIGHTS
SOMEDAY
I WILL OPEN MY EYES
THE LIGHT WILL COME
AND I WILL SET YOU FREE
SOMETIMES
THERE’S A JOY IN THE PAIN
SOMETIMES
PEACE THAT CAN’T BE EXPLAINED
SOME FIND
A LONGING THERE IN THEIR SOUL
SOMEDAY
I WILL MAKE ALL THINGS WHOLE
I PROMISE TO
SET THE CHILDREN FREE
SOMEDAY
YOU’LL FIND A PLACE IN THE SUN
SOMEDAY
WHEN ALL HEARTS BEAT AS ONE
YOU’LL SING
WITH THE HEART OF A CHILD
SOMEDAY
WHEN THE RIVER RUNS WILD
MY FATHER COMES
TO SET HIS CHILDREN FREE
SOME SAY IT’S A VISION
SOME SAY IT’S JUST A DREAM
I SAY IT’S A PROMISE
A COVENANT, A DESTINY
I WILL COME TO SET MY CHILDREN FREE
SOMEDAY
WHAT THE YOUNG ONES HAVE DREAMED
SOMEDAY
ALL YOU’VE HOPED AND BELIEVED
WILL BE
YOU WILL ALL UNDERSTAND
THE LONGING
PLACED INSIDE EVERY MAN
OVERCOMES THE WORLD
AND SETS THE CHILDREN FREE
AND I WILL COME
TO SET MY CHILDREN FREE
SOMEDAY
WE WILL SEE
WE WILL SEE YOU
SOMEDAY
In loving memory of my daddy, Allan Jorth.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Amazing Love by A.W. Tozer
Jesus felt the Cross. He felt it long before he reached it. Its shadow stretched far ahead and wrapped Him in its black, clinging folds. He shrank from it, though He never flinched. The thorns tore, and the nails cut His heart, long before His body was touched by them. The shame of it stung to the quivering quick. But love held Him steady. If it only might grip us, how Jesus loved us! -S.D. Gordon
Titus quickly identifies Jesus Christ as the Savior "who gave himself for us," and we can quickly learn the value of any object by the price which people are willing to pay for it. Perhaps I should qualify that—you may not learn the true value, for it is my private opinion that a diamond or other jewelry has no intrinsic value at all.
You may remember the story about the rooster scratching around in the barnyard for kernels of corn. Suddenly he scratched up a beautiful pearl of fabulous price which had been lost years before, but he just pushed it aside and kept on looking for corn. The pearl had no value for the rooster, although it had a great value for those who had set a price upon it.
There are various kinds of markets in the world, and something which has no value for a disinterested person may be considered of great value by the person desiring it and purchasing it.
It is in this sense, then, that we learn how dear and precious we are to Christ by what He was willing to give for us
I believe many Christians are tempted to downgrade themselves too much. I am not arguing against true humility and my word to you is this: Think as little of yourself as you want to, but always remember that our Lord Jesus Christ thought very highly of you—enough to give Himself for you in death and sacrifice.
If the devil does come to you and whispers that you are no good, don't argue with him. In fact, you may as well admit it, but then remind the devil: "Regardless of what you say about me, I must tell you how the Lord feels about me. He tells me that I am so valuable to Him that He gave Himself for me on the cross!"
So, the value is set by the price paid—and, in our case, the price paid was our Lord Himself!
— A.W. Tozer
Titus quickly identifies Jesus Christ as the Savior "who gave himself for us," and we can quickly learn the value of any object by the price which people are willing to pay for it. Perhaps I should qualify that—you may not learn the true value, for it is my private opinion that a diamond or other jewelry has no intrinsic value at all.
You may remember the story about the rooster scratching around in the barnyard for kernels of corn. Suddenly he scratched up a beautiful pearl of fabulous price which had been lost years before, but he just pushed it aside and kept on looking for corn. The pearl had no value for the rooster, although it had a great value for those who had set a price upon it.
There are various kinds of markets in the world, and something which has no value for a disinterested person may be considered of great value by the person desiring it and purchasing it.
It is in this sense, then, that we learn how dear and precious we are to Christ by what He was willing to give for us
I believe many Christians are tempted to downgrade themselves too much. I am not arguing against true humility and my word to you is this: Think as little of yourself as you want to, but always remember that our Lord Jesus Christ thought very highly of you—enough to give Himself for you in death and sacrifice.
If the devil does come to you and whispers that you are no good, don't argue with him. In fact, you may as well admit it, but then remind the devil: "Regardless of what you say about me, I must tell you how the Lord feels about me. He tells me that I am so valuable to Him that He gave Himself for me on the cross!"
So, the value is set by the price paid—and, in our case, the price paid was our Lord Himself!
— A.W. Tozer
Think About the Greatest Affliction
"In order to suffer without dwelling on our own affliction," Thomas Merton once contemplated, "we must think about a greater affliction, and turn to Christ on the cross. In order to suffer without hate, we must drive out bitterness from our heart by loving Jesus. In order to suffer without hope of compensation, we should find all our peace in the conviction of our union with Jesus. These things are no a matter of ascetic technique but of simple faith."
Excerpt from, 'When God Weeps,' by Joni Eareckson Tada
Excerpt from, 'When God Weeps,' by Joni Eareckson Tada
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
What's So Good About Suffering? - Part 3
In recent weeks, I have wondered why God decided I should be healed of cancer while others I know and love were not. Some may define this as survivor's guilt.
For those of you who have been diagnosed with cancer or a life threatening situation, understand what it's like to have death stare you in the face. Your knees buckle and you're placed in a position of humility to feel the hand of God resting on your life.
When death glared at me, I wasn't frightened of death itself, but of the pain that may lead to it. I was sad, not because of what was to come, but what I'd leave behind and the joys I'd miss with my loved ones.
I certainly wouldn't have chosen cancer, but it has caused me to think about life and death. As a believer in Jesus, I have the hope of eternity. I didn't fear death, but discovered at a much deeper level that death will be the better thing. I'd be removed from the pain of this world and be face to face with Jesus forever.
I've come to a deeper understanding of Paul's statement in Philippians 1:21where he says, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." For those who do not believe in Jesus, life on this earth is all there is. It's natural to strive for the world's values - money, popularity, pleasure, status. I, too, have done that and found emptiness. For Paul, to live meant to develop eternal values and to tell others about Christ, who alone could help them see life from an eternal perspective.
Paul goes onto share the struggle of choosing life or death in verses 22-24 where it says, "If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body."
In verses 25-26, Paul continues, "Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.
Paul's purpose for living went beyond providing for physical needs. His life was to be an example to others, for the benefit of other believers (the Body of Christ, the church).
In Colossians 1:24, Paul reiterates this concept. "Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church." Joni Eareckson Tada explains this passage, in her book, When God Weeps, ' Nothing is lacking when it comes to what Christ did on the cross. It is finished, just as he said, But something IS lacking when it comes to showcasing the salvation story to others. Jesus isn't around in the flesh, but you and I are. When we suffer and handle it with grace, we're like walking billboards advertising the positive way God works in the life of someone who suffers. It's for the benefit of believers. But it's more than a matter of example or even inspirations. It's you. Because we are one in the body of Christ, we are linked together. Your victories become mine.'
As believers, others learn something powerful about God from observing us in our suffering. Christ gave us this example, it's one we should mimic for the benefit of others. That's a purpose worth living for!
For those of you who have been diagnosed with cancer or a life threatening situation, understand what it's like to have death stare you in the face. Your knees buckle and you're placed in a position of humility to feel the hand of God resting on your life.
When death glared at me, I wasn't frightened of death itself, but of the pain that may lead to it. I was sad, not because of what was to come, but what I'd leave behind and the joys I'd miss with my loved ones.
I certainly wouldn't have chosen cancer, but it has caused me to think about life and death. As a believer in Jesus, I have the hope of eternity. I didn't fear death, but discovered at a much deeper level that death will be the better thing. I'd be removed from the pain of this world and be face to face with Jesus forever.
I've come to a deeper understanding of Paul's statement in Philippians 1:21where he says, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." For those who do not believe in Jesus, life on this earth is all there is. It's natural to strive for the world's values - money, popularity, pleasure, status. I, too, have done that and found emptiness. For Paul, to live meant to develop eternal values and to tell others about Christ, who alone could help them see life from an eternal perspective.
Paul goes onto share the struggle of choosing life or death in verses 22-24 where it says, "If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body."
In verses 25-26, Paul continues, "Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.
Paul's purpose for living went beyond providing for physical needs. His life was to be an example to others, for the benefit of other believers (the Body of Christ, the church).
In Colossians 1:24, Paul reiterates this concept. "Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church." Joni Eareckson Tada explains this passage, in her book, When God Weeps, ' Nothing is lacking when it comes to what Christ did on the cross. It is finished, just as he said, But something IS lacking when it comes to showcasing the salvation story to others. Jesus isn't around in the flesh, but you and I are. When we suffer and handle it with grace, we're like walking billboards advertising the positive way God works in the life of someone who suffers. It's for the benefit of believers. But it's more than a matter of example or even inspirations. It's you. Because we are one in the body of Christ, we are linked together. Your victories become mine.'
As believers, others learn something powerful about God from observing us in our suffering. Christ gave us this example, it's one we should mimic for the benefit of others. That's a purpose worth living for!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Blessed Be The Name
Job 1:21 NIV: "...the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.
"Love found. Love lost. A goal reached. A broken dream. Both good and bad are in our lives. Each thing we experience helps to shape who we become. Each thing that happens to us should be looked upon as purposeful; allowed by the Sovereign Hand of God. Our circumstances are not always pleasing; yet, we can always take pleasure within them in knowing that God´s perfect will is being accomplished. It´s not easy; yet, the benefits are tremendous. With each and everything we face, God has a perfect purpose. To say otherwise would be to say that some of what shapes us is beyond His control. He sees in us the potential of who we can be. His will is to see that we meet that potential, and He will only allow us to experience those things that can be used in doing so.
by Faithwriters, May 28th, 2010
"Love found. Love lost. A goal reached. A broken dream. Both good and bad are in our lives. Each thing we experience helps to shape who we become. Each thing that happens to us should be looked upon as purposeful; allowed by the Sovereign Hand of God. Our circumstances are not always pleasing; yet, we can always take pleasure within them in knowing that God´s perfect will is being accomplished. It´s not easy; yet, the benefits are tremendous. With each and everything we face, God has a perfect purpose. To say otherwise would be to say that some of what shapes us is beyond His control. He sees in us the potential of who we can be. His will is to see that we meet that potential, and He will only allow us to experience those things that can be used in doing so.
by Faithwriters, May 28th, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
What's So Good About Suffering - Part 2
In the past few days, I have been deeply touched by the testimony of a family in Cedar Falls, Iowa who have glorified God through an incredibly tragic accident that affected their 22 month old son. Thousands of people have banded together along side them to pray for their son & this family. They have sung praises to God, not knowing whether or not their son would live or die. The message of God's only Son, Jesus, who came to die for all mankind so that people may have eternal life, has spread because of this terrible accident. Some have accepted Christ as their Lord & Savior through the sharing of this suffering.
During tragedy and suffering, people are brought together who may have never known one another before. Suffering has a way of leveling the ground before the Cross. Suffering doesn't discriminate. Every race and social economic status, every person will experience some type of suffering, some how, some way, some day. It is inevitable. it just looks different for each one of us. Jesus promises it in John 16:33 when He says, "In this world you WILL have trouble."
Since we know suffering will happen, what will we do when it does?
In Philippians 1:12-14, Paul wrote of his imprisonment, 'Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the world palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. Because my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.'
Randy Alcorn writes in 'If God is Good,' Paul clearly saw God at work through his suffering. Just as boldness in imprisonment advances the gospel, so does boldness in disability, disease or disaster.
In our suffering, the door is opened for the gospel to be shared, when it may not have been otherwise.
In Galatians 4:13-14, Paul also wrote about his experience when he visited the Galatian churches, 'As you know, it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you. Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel (messenger) of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself.'
Even while Paul was imprisoned and seriously ill, he shared the message of hope in Christ. Suffering changes and expands our sphere of influence for Christ. Whatever our trial or suffering may be, lets turn it into a testimony for His name sake, just like this faithful couple from Cedar Falls, Iowa has done in recent days.
Ephesians 6:19-20 - Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
During tragedy and suffering, people are brought together who may have never known one another before. Suffering has a way of leveling the ground before the Cross. Suffering doesn't discriminate. Every race and social economic status, every person will experience some type of suffering, some how, some way, some day. It is inevitable. it just looks different for each one of us. Jesus promises it in John 16:33 when He says, "In this world you WILL have trouble."
Since we know suffering will happen, what will we do when it does?
In Philippians 1:12-14, Paul wrote of his imprisonment, 'Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the world palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. Because my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.'
Randy Alcorn writes in 'If God is Good,' Paul clearly saw God at work through his suffering. Just as boldness in imprisonment advances the gospel, so does boldness in disability, disease or disaster.
In our suffering, the door is opened for the gospel to be shared, when it may not have been otherwise.
In Galatians 4:13-14, Paul also wrote about his experience when he visited the Galatian churches, 'As you know, it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you. Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel (messenger) of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself.'
Even while Paul was imprisoned and seriously ill, he shared the message of hope in Christ. Suffering changes and expands our sphere of influence for Christ. Whatever our trial or suffering may be, lets turn it into a testimony for His name sake, just like this faithful couple from Cedar Falls, Iowa has done in recent days.
Ephesians 6:19-20 - Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
What's So Good About Suffering - Part I
I've come to realize with increasing age and life experiences that God's definition of "good" and mine are drastically different. My "good" would never include adultery, abuse, divorce, sudden loss of a loved one or cancer, to name a few. Instead, my definition of "good" would include health, wealth and comfort.
Yet, Christ warned us in Mark 4:19,"but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the Word, making it unfruitful." The things we believe may be "good" for us, may actually make us ineffective for His Kingdom.
When we are uncomfortable, unhealthy and lack wealth we become less self-reliant. It teaches us to trust God. He loves dependent people. In hardship, we are more inclined to press up against Him. More likely to lean upon Him. It's a truth we learned in Sunday school, when we sang the song, 'Jesus Loves Me.' Remember the lyric, 'I am weak, but He is strong?'
In II Corinthians 1:8-9, Paul doesn't go into detail about their hardships in Asia, he does say that he felt they were going to die and realized they could do nothing to help themselves - they simply had to rely on God. Paul writes,'We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves, but on God, who raises the dead.'
In our suffering, we are placed in a position of weakness, dependence, surrender. In II Corinthians 12:9-10, Paul pleads to God, begging him to remove his 'thorn in the flesh,' three times. We don't know exactly what it was, but it was a chronic, debilitating problem that hindered him from working at times.
Jesus' response to Paul's pleading was this, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Then Paul responded, 'Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weakness, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.'
Even though God did not remove Paul's physical affliction, he promised to demonstrate his power in Paul. He placed him in a position of reliance on God for his effectiveness rather than his own energy, effort or talent. This thorn kept Paul humble, reminding him of his constant need for Christ. This benefited others who knew Paul because they saw Christ's work in his life.
Joni Eareckson Tada wrote in her book, 'When God Weeps,' God always seems bigger to those who need Him the most. And suffering is the tool He uses to help us need Him more.
Admitting our weakness and dependence upon God, affirms God's strength and deepens our worship of Him. When we are weak, allowing God to fill us with his power, then we are stronger than we could ever be on our own.
Yet, Christ warned us in Mark 4:19,"but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the Word, making it unfruitful." The things we believe may be "good" for us, may actually make us ineffective for His Kingdom.
When we are uncomfortable, unhealthy and lack wealth we become less self-reliant. It teaches us to trust God. He loves dependent people. In hardship, we are more inclined to press up against Him. More likely to lean upon Him. It's a truth we learned in Sunday school, when we sang the song, 'Jesus Loves Me.' Remember the lyric, 'I am weak, but He is strong?'
In II Corinthians 1:8-9, Paul doesn't go into detail about their hardships in Asia, he does say that he felt they were going to die and realized they could do nothing to help themselves - they simply had to rely on God. Paul writes,'We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves, but on God, who raises the dead.'
In our suffering, we are placed in a position of weakness, dependence, surrender. In II Corinthians 12:9-10, Paul pleads to God, begging him to remove his 'thorn in the flesh,' three times. We don't know exactly what it was, but it was a chronic, debilitating problem that hindered him from working at times.
Jesus' response to Paul's pleading was this, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Then Paul responded, 'Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weakness, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.'
Even though God did not remove Paul's physical affliction, he promised to demonstrate his power in Paul. He placed him in a position of reliance on God for his effectiveness rather than his own energy, effort or talent. This thorn kept Paul humble, reminding him of his constant need for Christ. This benefited others who knew Paul because they saw Christ's work in his life.
Joni Eareckson Tada wrote in her book, 'When God Weeps,' God always seems bigger to those who need Him the most. And suffering is the tool He uses to help us need Him more.
Admitting our weakness and dependence upon God, affirms God's strength and deepens our worship of Him. When we are weak, allowing God to fill us with his power, then we are stronger than we could ever be on our own.
Monday, May 17, 2010
What's So Good About Suffering?
I crossed the final hurdle in my race against breast cancer on May 3rd, 2010, fifteen months after my diagnosis. Since that time, I've pondered these questions, "What are the long-term 'side effects' or benefits of suffering? AND What's so good about suffering?" As a follower of Christ, I'm asking these questions. I'm seeking a Biblical perspective on this subject. In the next several weeks, months, maybe years I will share insights gleaned on this topic and post them here.
Does this question interest you? If so, join me in this journey of discovery. As I seek answers to these questions, I confidently, anticipate a fresh encounter with Jesus.
I pray this journey will expand my faith in God and His purposes, while encouraging others in their walk with Christ as they face trials and suffering on this earth.
Trusting Him on the journey.
Romans 8:28 - "And we know in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purposes."
Does this question interest you? If so, join me in this journey of discovery. As I seek answers to these questions, I confidently, anticipate a fresh encounter with Jesus.
I pray this journey will expand my faith in God and His purposes, while encouraging others in their walk with Christ as they face trials and suffering on this earth.
Trusting Him on the journey.
Romans 8:28 - "And we know in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purposes."
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Finding Faith to Carry You Through Disaster
The Survivors Club: Finding Faith to Carry You Through Disaster
by: Sarah Jennings, Crosswalk.com Family Editor
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4
In the past month, we've watched the international community endure one calamity after another. First, a devastating earthquake in Haiti. Now earthquakes in Japan and Chile. We've seen images of great suffering and heard stories of great faith and triumph. With each heart wrenching update, we wonder how we would cope if the places were switched. Could we endure the shock of having everything - and everyone - we loved gone in a matter of moments? Would we maintain hope and faith? Would we be generous to others?
Award-winning journalist Ben Sherwood, author of The Survivors Club, began asking these questions long before recent quakes crumbled the infrastructure of countries across the globe. After years of interviewing people who survived incredible catastrophes for human interest stories, he began to wonder: What enables these ordinary people to endure what most could not? Are there certain characteristics that set survivors apart from victims? And if so, can we learn how to become survivors?
Sherwood set out on a quest to find answers. He interviewed countless members of "the survivors club." He met with Brian Udell, the only pilot to live through an emergency ejection from a jet going faster than the speed of sound (Mach 1) at sea level. He interviewed Stan Praimnath, the only survivor from the 81st floor of the World Trade Center's South Tower. He spoke with petite Anne Hjelle, a mountain biker who survived a vicious mountain lion attack on the trail. He interviewed survivors of shipwrecks, plane crashes, the Holocaust, and those who beat difficult medical diagnoses.
Sherwood didn't just interview these remarkable men and women. He put himself through the wringer. He visited the Aviation Survival Training Center at the U.S. Marine Corp air station where he allowed trainers to subject him to military survival tests, including a frightening simulation of a helicopter crashing underwater (to his teachers' surprise, he passed all the tests). He also underwent emergency FAA training with airline professionals. Along the way, he spoke with the experts. Experts in medicine, military training, aviation, and psychology.
His findings? There's actually quite a bit you and I can do to join the survivors club when life gets rough.
So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled (1 Thess 5: 6). The first factor in becoming a survivor is acknowledging a very biblical truth: At some point life's going to go wrong. As much as we don't want to admit it, the brokenness of this world will seep into our tranquil lives. In his introduction, Sherwood writes, "Almost everyone I know has faced - or is coping with - some kind of serious challenge or adversity." Part of what differentiates the victims from the survivors is a person's willingness to accept adversity and prepare before it ever becomes a reality.
Did you know that 96% of passengers in airplane accidents survive? Sherwood shares that the survivors who might otherwise have perished in plane crashes were passengers who kept their shoes on during flight, made note of the exits before take-off, and abstained from the alcoholic beverages on the food cart. In other words - these passengers were prepared.
Other survival factors read like a litany of statistics (including the reality that young, thin, strong men tend to have the best survival rates). But amid all the scientific insights and eye-opening stats, Sherwood identifies one profound characteristic of those who belong to "the survivors club." When he asked survival guru Ray Smith at the Naval Survival Training Institute for the secret of survival, Smith gave a startlingly simple answer: "Faith in God… it's a major factor in all survival scenarios."
Brian Udell couldn't agree more. He believes it was divine intervention that pushed him up onto the life-saving raft after he miraculously survived his high-speed ejection. Stan Praimnath never misses his morning prayers after September 11, 2001. And Anne Hjelle feels like a walking example of 2 Tim 4: 17 ("I was delivered from the lion's mouth").
Sherwood was skeptical of the "divine factor" at first, but expert after expert confirmed the powerful role faith plays in those who beat all odds. In fact, not only does faith carry survivors through extraordinary crises but studies reveal it helps with ordinary crises too. Those who attend church at least once a week live an average of 7 years longer than those who don't.
But what kind of faith is this? Is this a naive, blind optimism that carries survivors through unbelievable circumstances?
No, quite the opposite. Famously dubbed "The Stockdale Paradox," Sherwood explains that Admiral James Stockdale, the highest ranking POW in Vietnam, responded to the question, "Which American prisoners perished?" with this surprising declaration: "Oh that's easy. The optimists."
Why? Hope is vital, but optimism often drains emotional resources by fueling unrealistic expectations. "We'll be out by Christmas!" a cheery POW might exclaim. When Christmas comes and goes, depression ensues. In fact, naïve believers who erroneously think God will shield them from all adversity tend to lose their vital faith when crisis hits. It's the mature, hopeful realist who believes God uses his adversity for a greater good that comes out the other side of a crisis thriving. Furthermore, studies show the more integrated a person's faith is in his day-to-day life, the more likely he is to weather life's most violent storms.
Where does this leave us? I definitely recommend The Survivors Club. You'll learn some potentially life-saving information and read some fascinating stories. But for me, this information does more than impress the importance of hitting the gym and booking airplane seats within five rows of an exit. It leaves me in awe.
Awe that a journalist's quest for scientific answers to survival led him and his readers straight to God and the power of prayer. Awe that even in the worst of catastrophes, faith is sustained. Awe that God not only answers prayers (how many times have I questioned his silence?) -- but we depend on it.
It also leaves me with a dose of reality: earth isn't heaven. While we can't expect to dodge the bad stuff in life, we can have faith that God never leaves us. He walks with us through the valleys, using every experience for the good of those who love him. Just ask Brian Udell, Stan Praimnath, and Anne Hjelle.
How would you describe your faith? Is it more immature or mature? Do you pray daily and lean into God's grace or rely on your own strengths? Do you think God will shield you from adversity or guide you through it? Take inventory and make the necessary changes.
Original Crosswalk publication date: March 1, 2010
by: Sarah Jennings, Crosswalk.com Family Editor
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4
In the past month, we've watched the international community endure one calamity after another. First, a devastating earthquake in Haiti. Now earthquakes in Japan and Chile. We've seen images of great suffering and heard stories of great faith and triumph. With each heart wrenching update, we wonder how we would cope if the places were switched. Could we endure the shock of having everything - and everyone - we loved gone in a matter of moments? Would we maintain hope and faith? Would we be generous to others?
Award-winning journalist Ben Sherwood, author of The Survivors Club, began asking these questions long before recent quakes crumbled the infrastructure of countries across the globe. After years of interviewing people who survived incredible catastrophes for human interest stories, he began to wonder: What enables these ordinary people to endure what most could not? Are there certain characteristics that set survivors apart from victims? And if so, can we learn how to become survivors?
Sherwood set out on a quest to find answers. He interviewed countless members of "the survivors club." He met with Brian Udell, the only pilot to live through an emergency ejection from a jet going faster than the speed of sound (Mach 1) at sea level. He interviewed Stan Praimnath, the only survivor from the 81st floor of the World Trade Center's South Tower. He spoke with petite Anne Hjelle, a mountain biker who survived a vicious mountain lion attack on the trail. He interviewed survivors of shipwrecks, plane crashes, the Holocaust, and those who beat difficult medical diagnoses.
Sherwood didn't just interview these remarkable men and women. He put himself through the wringer. He visited the Aviation Survival Training Center at the U.S. Marine Corp air station where he allowed trainers to subject him to military survival tests, including a frightening simulation of a helicopter crashing underwater (to his teachers' surprise, he passed all the tests). He also underwent emergency FAA training with airline professionals. Along the way, he spoke with the experts. Experts in medicine, military training, aviation, and psychology.
His findings? There's actually quite a bit you and I can do to join the survivors club when life gets rough.
So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled (1 Thess 5: 6). The first factor in becoming a survivor is acknowledging a very biblical truth: At some point life's going to go wrong. As much as we don't want to admit it, the brokenness of this world will seep into our tranquil lives. In his introduction, Sherwood writes, "Almost everyone I know has faced - or is coping with - some kind of serious challenge or adversity." Part of what differentiates the victims from the survivors is a person's willingness to accept adversity and prepare before it ever becomes a reality.
Did you know that 96% of passengers in airplane accidents survive? Sherwood shares that the survivors who might otherwise have perished in plane crashes were passengers who kept their shoes on during flight, made note of the exits before take-off, and abstained from the alcoholic beverages on the food cart. In other words - these passengers were prepared.
Other survival factors read like a litany of statistics (including the reality that young, thin, strong men tend to have the best survival rates). But amid all the scientific insights and eye-opening stats, Sherwood identifies one profound characteristic of those who belong to "the survivors club." When he asked survival guru Ray Smith at the Naval Survival Training Institute for the secret of survival, Smith gave a startlingly simple answer: "Faith in God… it's a major factor in all survival scenarios."
Brian Udell couldn't agree more. He believes it was divine intervention that pushed him up onto the life-saving raft after he miraculously survived his high-speed ejection. Stan Praimnath never misses his morning prayers after September 11, 2001. And Anne Hjelle feels like a walking example of 2 Tim 4: 17 ("I was delivered from the lion's mouth").
Sherwood was skeptical of the "divine factor" at first, but expert after expert confirmed the powerful role faith plays in those who beat all odds. In fact, not only does faith carry survivors through extraordinary crises but studies reveal it helps with ordinary crises too. Those who attend church at least once a week live an average of 7 years longer than those who don't.
But what kind of faith is this? Is this a naive, blind optimism that carries survivors through unbelievable circumstances?
No, quite the opposite. Famously dubbed "The Stockdale Paradox," Sherwood explains that Admiral James Stockdale, the highest ranking POW in Vietnam, responded to the question, "Which American prisoners perished?" with this surprising declaration: "Oh that's easy. The optimists."
Why? Hope is vital, but optimism often drains emotional resources by fueling unrealistic expectations. "We'll be out by Christmas!" a cheery POW might exclaim. When Christmas comes and goes, depression ensues. In fact, naïve believers who erroneously think God will shield them from all adversity tend to lose their vital faith when crisis hits. It's the mature, hopeful realist who believes God uses his adversity for a greater good that comes out the other side of a crisis thriving. Furthermore, studies show the more integrated a person's faith is in his day-to-day life, the more likely he is to weather life's most violent storms.
Where does this leave us? I definitely recommend The Survivors Club. You'll learn some potentially life-saving information and read some fascinating stories. But for me, this information does more than impress the importance of hitting the gym and booking airplane seats within five rows of an exit. It leaves me in awe.
Awe that a journalist's quest for scientific answers to survival led him and his readers straight to God and the power of prayer. Awe that even in the worst of catastrophes, faith is sustained. Awe that God not only answers prayers (how many times have I questioned his silence?) -- but we depend on it.
It also leaves me with a dose of reality: earth isn't heaven. While we can't expect to dodge the bad stuff in life, we can have faith that God never leaves us. He walks with us through the valleys, using every experience for the good of those who love him. Just ask Brian Udell, Stan Praimnath, and Anne Hjelle.
How would you describe your faith? Is it more immature or mature? Do you pray daily and lean into God's grace or rely on your own strengths? Do you think God will shield you from adversity or guide you through it? Take inventory and make the necessary changes.
Original Crosswalk publication date: March 1, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
The Spiritual Discipline of Perservance - Oswald Chambers
Be still, and know that I am God . . . — Psalm 46:10
Perseverance is more than endurance. It is endurance combined with absolute assurance and certainty that what we are looking for is going to happen. Perseverance means more than just hanging on, which may be only exposing our fear of letting go and falling. Perseverance is our supreme effort of refusing to believe that our hero is going to be conquered. Our greatest fear is not that we will be damned, but that somehow Jesus Christ will be defeated. Also, our fear is that the very things our Lord stood for— love, justice, forgiveness, and kindness among men— will not win out in the end and will represent an unattainable goal for us. Then there is the call to spiritual perseverance. A call not to hang on and do nothing, but to work deliberately, knowing with certainty that God will never be defeated.
If our hopes seem to be experiencing disappointment right now, it simply means that they are being purified. Every hope or dream of the human mind will be fulfilled if it is noble and of God. But one of the greatest stresses in life is the stress of waiting for God. He brings fulfillment, "because you have kept My command to persevere . . ." ( Revelation 3:10 ).
Continue to persevere spiritually.
Perseverance is more than endurance. It is endurance combined with absolute assurance and certainty that what we are looking for is going to happen. Perseverance means more than just hanging on, which may be only exposing our fear of letting go and falling. Perseverance is our supreme effort of refusing to believe that our hero is going to be conquered. Our greatest fear is not that we will be damned, but that somehow Jesus Christ will be defeated. Also, our fear is that the very things our Lord stood for— love, justice, forgiveness, and kindness among men— will not win out in the end and will represent an unattainable goal for us. Then there is the call to spiritual perseverance. A call not to hang on and do nothing, but to work deliberately, knowing with certainty that God will never be defeated.
If our hopes seem to be experiencing disappointment right now, it simply means that they are being purified. Every hope or dream of the human mind will be fulfilled if it is noble and of God. But one of the greatest stresses in life is the stress of waiting for God. He brings fulfillment, "because you have kept My command to persevere . . ." ( Revelation 3:10 ).
Continue to persevere spiritually.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Get Back Up
I love the lyric in this song where it says, "May be knocked down, but not out forever!" It encourages me to persevere in Christ because of His love calling out to me to "get back up again."
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
The Hand of God by Randy Alcorn
When we lock our eyes on our cancer, arthritis, fibromyalgia, diabetes, or disability, self-pity and bitterness can creep in. When we spend our days rehearsing the tragic death of a loved one, we will interpret all life through the darkness of our suffering. How much better when we focus upon Jesus!
“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus... who for the joy set before him endured the cross.” The following verse commands us, “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:2–3).
However great our suffering, his was far greater. If you feel angry at God, what price would you have him pay for his failure to do more for people facing suffering and evil? Would you inflict capital punishment on him? You’re too late. No matter how bitter we feel toward God, could any of us come up with a punishment worse than what God chose to inflict upon himself?
Tim Keller writes,
If we again ask the question: “Why does God allow evil and suffering to continue?” and we look at the cross of Jesus, we still do not know what the answer is. However, we know what the answer isn’t. It can’t be that he doesn’t love us. It can’t be that he is indifferent or detached from our condition. God takes our misery and suffering so seriously that he was willing to take it on himself.... So, if we embrace the Christian teaching that Jesus is God and that he went to the Cross, then we have deep consolation and strength to face the brutal realities of life on earth.
If you know Jesus, then the hand holding yours bears the calluses of a carpenter who worked with wood and carried a cross for you. When he opens his hand, you see the gnarled flesh of the nail scars on his wrists. And when you think he doesn’t understand your pain, realize that you don’t understand the extent of his pain. Love him or not, he has proven he loves you.
If you hate suffering, does it make sense to choose eternal suffering when God has already suffered so much to deliver you from it?
In your most troubled moments, when you cry out to God, “Why have you let this happen?” picture the outstretched hands of Christ, forever scarred... for you.
Do those look like the hands of a God who does not care?
(Excerpted from Randy Alcorn's book, 'If God Is Good.')
“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus... who for the joy set before him endured the cross.” The following verse commands us, “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:2–3).
However great our suffering, his was far greater. If you feel angry at God, what price would you have him pay for his failure to do more for people facing suffering and evil? Would you inflict capital punishment on him? You’re too late. No matter how bitter we feel toward God, could any of us come up with a punishment worse than what God chose to inflict upon himself?
Tim Keller writes,
If we again ask the question: “Why does God allow evil and suffering to continue?” and we look at the cross of Jesus, we still do not know what the answer is. However, we know what the answer isn’t. It can’t be that he doesn’t love us. It can’t be that he is indifferent or detached from our condition. God takes our misery and suffering so seriously that he was willing to take it on himself.... So, if we embrace the Christian teaching that Jesus is God and that he went to the Cross, then we have deep consolation and strength to face the brutal realities of life on earth.
If you know Jesus, then the hand holding yours bears the calluses of a carpenter who worked with wood and carried a cross for you. When he opens his hand, you see the gnarled flesh of the nail scars on his wrists. And when you think he doesn’t understand your pain, realize that you don’t understand the extent of his pain. Love him or not, he has proven he loves you.
If you hate suffering, does it make sense to choose eternal suffering when God has already suffered so much to deliver you from it?
In your most troubled moments, when you cry out to God, “Why have you let this happen?” picture the outstretched hands of Christ, forever scarred... for you.
Do those look like the hands of a God who does not care?
(Excerpted from Randy Alcorn's book, 'If God Is Good.')
Friday, February 5, 2010
Less Like Scars
It's been a hard year
But I'm climbing out of the rubble
These lessons are hard
Healing changes are subtle
But every day it's
Less like tearing, more like building
Less like captive, more like willing
Less like breakdown, more like surrender
Less like haunting, more like remember
And I feel You here
And You're picking up the pieces
Forever faithful
It seemed out of my hands, a bad situation
But You are able
And in Your hands the pain and hurt
Look less like scars and more like
Character
Less like a prison, more like my room
It's less like a casket, more like a womb
Less like dying, more like transcending
Less like fear, less like an ending
And I feel you here
And you're picking up the pieces
Forever faithful
It seemed out of my hands, a bad situation
But you are able
And in your hands the pain and hurt
Look less like scars
Just a little while ago
I couldn't feel the power or the hope
I couldn't cope, I couldn't feel a thing
Just a little while back
I was desperate, broken, laid out, hoping
You would come
And I need You
And I want You here
And I feel You
And I know You're here
And you're picking up the pieces
Forever faithful
It seemed out of my hands, a bad, bad situation
But You are able
And in Your hands the pain and hurt
Look less like scars (x3)
And more like
Character
Song by Sara Groves
But I'm climbing out of the rubble
These lessons are hard
Healing changes are subtle
But every day it's
Less like tearing, more like building
Less like captive, more like willing
Less like breakdown, more like surrender
Less like haunting, more like remember
And I feel You here
And You're picking up the pieces
Forever faithful
It seemed out of my hands, a bad situation
But You are able
And in Your hands the pain and hurt
Look less like scars and more like
Character
Less like a prison, more like my room
It's less like a casket, more like a womb
Less like dying, more like transcending
Less like fear, less like an ending
And I feel you here
And you're picking up the pieces
Forever faithful
It seemed out of my hands, a bad situation
But you are able
And in your hands the pain and hurt
Look less like scars
Just a little while ago
I couldn't feel the power or the hope
I couldn't cope, I couldn't feel a thing
Just a little while back
I was desperate, broken, laid out, hoping
You would come
And I need You
And I want You here
And I feel You
And I know You're here
And you're picking up the pieces
Forever faithful
It seemed out of my hands, a bad, bad situation
But You are able
And in Your hands the pain and hurt
Look less like scars (x3)
And more like
Character
Song by Sara Groves
Sunday, January 31, 2010
To Know Him More
As a member of Trinity Bible Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa, I've had the privilege of learning from Pastor, John Miller for several weeks as he's preached a sermon series titled 'Finding Joy in the Journey,' using the Book of Philippians as his text.
This Sunday, he focused on Chapter 3 of Philippians, verses 1-11. The subtitle of his sermon was 'Pattern Your Life after People Who Set Their Sights on Knowing Christ.'
He said, "Gospel living is not just what we "do," but what we "prize" or value."
Pastor John, challenged the congregation with these introductory questions:
What is it you think you must have for satisfaction?
What do you cherish the most? Is it pride, family, health, a secure retirement, respect, friendship...?
What is it you're clinging to that may be hindering you from advancing the Gospel or knowing Christ more deeply?
Is that one thing really necessary for the task of knowing Christ or advancing the Gospel?
In the context of Philippians 3:8 - where Paul talks about knowing Christ, it means a vibrant, personal, passionate relationship. It's not knowing about Him (head knowledge/factual information) - it's knowing Him intimately as you would your closest friend. A person you can bear all things without fear of rejection.
Paul gave up everything - family, friendship, comfort and freedom in order to know Christ and his resurrection power. We, too have access to this power, but we may have to make sacrifices to enjoy it fully.
As I sat there listening to this message, emotions were welling up in me and I was about to "break" - weep uncontrollably. I nudged my husband and said, "I need to leave soon because I'm going to "crack." In other words, I was going to start crying, not the quiet, silent type - but the wailing type.
I began to bawl the minute I stepped out of the church, with sounds of agony. I wailed the entire drive home, and continued to as I walked into our home. My husband asked me if I could verbalize what I was feeling. I flopped myself down on the couch and said, "I'm not sure I can yet."
Then slowly, through the sobbing, I was able to gain enough composure to put some thoughts together. I replied, "It was as though the Lord was saying to me - "Terri, I needed you to surrender your work, your health, your financial security and even a loved one - all in one year SO THAT you'd KNOW ME more intimately. Terri, you don't need to "do" anything special to serve me, I want you to KNOW me." It's enough. I just want you to know Me."
A year ago, just days before the first surgery related to my cancer diagnosis, I prayed with two women. I remember praying, "Lord, You've drawn me closer to Yourself in the past through some very deep valleys. I pray with expectation that You will draw me closer to Yourself through this trial as well." I can answer that with a resounding, "Yes!" I do know Him much more intimately from these compounded trials in 2009, but it's been painful. It still is painful. There is much grieving that goes along with each of these losses.
What are you willing to give up in order to know Christ? A crowded schedule in order to set aside a few minutes each day to read the Bible and pray - to know Him? Your friend's approval - to know Him? Some of your plans or pleasures - to know Him? Whatever it is, knowing Christ, is more than worth the sacrifice. Seek no greater honor than just to know Him more.
Philippians 3:8 - What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I might gain Christ.
If you're interested in listening to Pastor John Miller's sermon it can be found at http://www.cedarfallstrinity.org/ Click on sermons - select the one given on Sunday, January 31st.
I've also attached one of my favorite songs titled, 'In Christ Alone,' by Brian Littrell that relates to this subject.
This Sunday, he focused on Chapter 3 of Philippians, verses 1-11. The subtitle of his sermon was 'Pattern Your Life after People Who Set Their Sights on Knowing Christ.'
He said, "Gospel living is not just what we "do," but what we "prize" or value."
Pastor John, challenged the congregation with these introductory questions:
What is it you think you must have for satisfaction?
What do you cherish the most? Is it pride, family, health, a secure retirement, respect, friendship...?
What is it you're clinging to that may be hindering you from advancing the Gospel or knowing Christ more deeply?
Is that one thing really necessary for the task of knowing Christ or advancing the Gospel?
In the context of Philippians 3:8 - where Paul talks about knowing Christ, it means a vibrant, personal, passionate relationship. It's not knowing about Him (head knowledge/factual information) - it's knowing Him intimately as you would your closest friend. A person you can bear all things without fear of rejection.
Paul gave up everything - family, friendship, comfort and freedom in order to know Christ and his resurrection power. We, too have access to this power, but we may have to make sacrifices to enjoy it fully.
As I sat there listening to this message, emotions were welling up in me and I was about to "break" - weep uncontrollably. I nudged my husband and said, "I need to leave soon because I'm going to "crack." In other words, I was going to start crying, not the quiet, silent type - but the wailing type.
I began to bawl the minute I stepped out of the church, with sounds of agony. I wailed the entire drive home, and continued to as I walked into our home. My husband asked me if I could verbalize what I was feeling. I flopped myself down on the couch and said, "I'm not sure I can yet."
Then slowly, through the sobbing, I was able to gain enough composure to put some thoughts together. I replied, "It was as though the Lord was saying to me - "Terri, I needed you to surrender your work, your health, your financial security and even a loved one - all in one year SO THAT you'd KNOW ME more intimately. Terri, you don't need to "do" anything special to serve me, I want you to KNOW me." It's enough. I just want you to know Me."
A year ago, just days before the first surgery related to my cancer diagnosis, I prayed with two women. I remember praying, "Lord, You've drawn me closer to Yourself in the past through some very deep valleys. I pray with expectation that You will draw me closer to Yourself through this trial as well." I can answer that with a resounding, "Yes!" I do know Him much more intimately from these compounded trials in 2009, but it's been painful. It still is painful. There is much grieving that goes along with each of these losses.
What are you willing to give up in order to know Christ? A crowded schedule in order to set aside a few minutes each day to read the Bible and pray - to know Him? Your friend's approval - to know Him? Some of your plans or pleasures - to know Him? Whatever it is, knowing Christ, is more than worth the sacrifice. Seek no greater honor than just to know Him more.
Philippians 3:8 - What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I might gain Christ.
If you're interested in listening to Pastor John Miller's sermon it can be found at http://www.cedarfallstrinity.org/ Click on sermons - select the one given on Sunday, January 31st.
I've also attached one of my favorite songs titled, 'In Christ Alone,' by Brian Littrell that relates to this subject.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Holding On To What's Being Held Out
I heard this song, 'Healing Hand of God,' by Jeremy Camp today for the first time. It's just what I needed to hear. I have experienced the healing hand of God this past year at multiple levels. Walking forward, I must choose to continue to hold onto His healing hand, that's always held out.
I've attached Jeremy Camp's story behind this song, for those who don't know it. In 2004, just two months after he was married, his wife died of cancer. That tragedy pierced his life and heart, yet he cried out for God's grace to bear the pain of that soul-wrenching loss. God has faithfully turned his pain into spiritual might that he shares with others through his music.
I've attached Jeremy Camp's story behind this song, for those who don't know it. In 2004, just two months after he was married, his wife died of cancer. That tragedy pierced his life and heart, yet he cried out for God's grace to bear the pain of that soul-wrenching loss. God has faithfully turned his pain into spiritual might that he shares with others through his music.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Aftershock
Recently we have been inundated with news about the earthquake in Haiti. The devastation to this land and the people who live there is heart wrenching. Having lived in Iowa all my life I have never experienced an earthquake, however I have experienced aftershock.
Webster's dictionary defines aftershock as an aftereffect of a distressing or traumatic event(s).
A year ago (this week), after my annual physical, I was asked to return for an ultra sound due to an abnormal mammogram. I knew in my gut after the ultra sound that I had breast cancer. Within hours after the visit, I received a call from my OB/GYN who referred me to a surgeon. A week later, I had a biopsy and the results were positive.
2009 began with numerous medical procedures that led to several surgeries and months of chemotherapy related to my cancer diagnosis. In May, came the loss of employment, followed by financial stress due to loss of my income, then in August, my father-in-law passed away suddenly. (His 77th birthday would have been this week.) Multiple unexpected, traumatic "events" compounded one after the other.
I thought after one year, I'd feel differently than I do. The worst is behind us. I didn't expect to feel angry, irritable, fatigued, lacking energy. I thought I'd feel more "normal," by now, as some would say. Instead, today, I wept uncontrollably, unexpectedly. A surprising response? No, an aftershock, an aftereffect from the distressing year of 2009.
So why am I sharing this? It's not for pity. I know many others who have suffered in much greater ways than I have. I share this as a reminder to those of you who are enduring a difficult time - whether that be health issues, loss of employment, financial hardship or grieving the loss of a loved one. Give yourself time to heal and to mourn the loss. Don't try to force the healing process. Be patient with the pace of your recovery. It's your own personal journey - it'll be different for everyone. Give yourself permission to feel without judgment or guilt. Speaking from a "queen of suppression," that's a hard one for me.
I'm certain there will be more unexpected aftershocks down the road, similar to what I experienced today. In preparation, I turn to the restoration promise from Jeremiah 30:17 that I wrote on an index card a year ago. It's posted near my kitchen window, as a physical reminder of His promise to restore and heal me - even the wounds the surgeons didn't make, hidden deep inside of me.
Jeremiah 30:17 - "I WILL restore you to health and heal your wounds."
Although the earth quakes, God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. (Psalm 46:1-2) God is our refuge in the face of total destruction like we've seen in Haiti and during personal aftershocks like I experienced first hand today. Cry out to Him. He is the ever-present help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16 - Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Webster's dictionary defines aftershock as an aftereffect of a distressing or traumatic event(s).
A year ago (this week), after my annual physical, I was asked to return for an ultra sound due to an abnormal mammogram. I knew in my gut after the ultra sound that I had breast cancer. Within hours after the visit, I received a call from my OB/GYN who referred me to a surgeon. A week later, I had a biopsy and the results were positive.
2009 began with numerous medical procedures that led to several surgeries and months of chemotherapy related to my cancer diagnosis. In May, came the loss of employment, followed by financial stress due to loss of my income, then in August, my father-in-law passed away suddenly. (His 77th birthday would have been this week.) Multiple unexpected, traumatic "events" compounded one after the other.
I thought after one year, I'd feel differently than I do. The worst is behind us. I didn't expect to feel angry, irritable, fatigued, lacking energy. I thought I'd feel more "normal," by now, as some would say. Instead, today, I wept uncontrollably, unexpectedly. A surprising response? No, an aftershock, an aftereffect from the distressing year of 2009.
So why am I sharing this? It's not for pity. I know many others who have suffered in much greater ways than I have. I share this as a reminder to those of you who are enduring a difficult time - whether that be health issues, loss of employment, financial hardship or grieving the loss of a loved one. Give yourself time to heal and to mourn the loss. Don't try to force the healing process. Be patient with the pace of your recovery. It's your own personal journey - it'll be different for everyone. Give yourself permission to feel without judgment or guilt. Speaking from a "queen of suppression," that's a hard one for me.
I'm certain there will be more unexpected aftershocks down the road, similar to what I experienced today. In preparation, I turn to the restoration promise from Jeremiah 30:17 that I wrote on an index card a year ago. It's posted near my kitchen window, as a physical reminder of His promise to restore and heal me - even the wounds the surgeons didn't make, hidden deep inside of me.
Jeremiah 30:17 - "I WILL restore you to health and heal your wounds."
Although the earth quakes, God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. (Psalm 46:1-2) God is our refuge in the face of total destruction like we've seen in Haiti and during personal aftershocks like I experienced first hand today. Cry out to Him. He is the ever-present help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16 - Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
A Resolution Worth Keeping
Paraphrased from 'Pearls of Great Price,' by Joni Eareckson Tada
The first week of the New Year is nearly behind us. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of New Year's resolutions, probably because in my experience they are short lived. I blow it before I know it. However, there is one resolution worth considering for Twenty-Ten.
II Corinthians 4:16 says, Therefore, do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
Our inner man/inner being/new creation in Christ, must be renewed daily. It must be nourished daily - every day, month & season of the year. Our fellowship with God must be renewed day to day, not just on Sunday mornings when we listen to a good sermon. Our fellowship with Jesus must be renewed on a daily basis, nourishing our souls through the Word of God. It's necessary. Quickly, we can become spiritually malnourished. It's one resolution we can't afford not to keep.
I pray "that He would grant you & I, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man." (Ephesians 3:16) May we invite His Spirit to replenish us as we spend time in His Word and in prayer. Lord Jesus, show us fresh insights every day in Your Word. Reveal Your heart to us in prayer and in so doing, renew our inner being day by day. In Jesus Name I pray. AMEN.
A quote on this theme by Elyse Fitzpatrick, author of 'Idols of the Heart' - "Pursue the happiness of knowing and loving Christ, and you will find your holiness and worship will grow."
The first week of the New Year is nearly behind us. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of New Year's resolutions, probably because in my experience they are short lived. I blow it before I know it. However, there is one resolution worth considering for Twenty-Ten.
II Corinthians 4:16 says, Therefore, do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
Our inner man/inner being/new creation in Christ, must be renewed daily. It must be nourished daily - every day, month & season of the year. Our fellowship with God must be renewed day to day, not just on Sunday mornings when we listen to a good sermon. Our fellowship with Jesus must be renewed on a daily basis, nourishing our souls through the Word of God. It's necessary. Quickly, we can become spiritually malnourished. It's one resolution we can't afford not to keep.
I pray "that He would grant you & I, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man." (Ephesians 3:16) May we invite His Spirit to replenish us as we spend time in His Word and in prayer. Lord Jesus, show us fresh insights every day in Your Word. Reveal Your heart to us in prayer and in so doing, renew our inner being day by day. In Jesus Name I pray. AMEN.
A quote on this theme by Elyse Fitzpatrick, author of 'Idols of the Heart' - "Pursue the happiness of knowing and loving Christ, and you will find your holiness and worship will grow."
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