July 15, 2009 ~ God Has Sent Encouragement Today
Well, I’m still here in the hospital, but oh what a difference a day can make! From the first step of this journey more than a year ago, it was my heart’s desire to walk this perilous road in a way that minimized the rollercoaster ride of emotions and only, ONLY, depend upon what I knew was true – what I knew through the scripture and through my years of knowing Him. I confess that I have stepped aboard the rollercoaster a few times in the past couple weeks and been discouraged with the circumstances and the much heavier nature of this battle. I’m flawed, and human, and not always strong enough to carry the battle garments with grace. Sometimes, this past week especially, they have felt too heavy.
Without going into all the details, there were numerous setbacks. Almost overwhelming in number. I believe that spiritual warfare is real, and it became clear that the war was on in a big way. There was a surge of strong forces against me. Still, there were times – many, many times – when His love and comfort were so real to me it was as if I could literally feel Him physically with me. And what a comfort it was! What a joy to know He is there. I’ve always known that He was mindful of my situation; He is walking each step with me. And John, always there for me, read each encouraging email or text message He received, read scripture to me and reminded me of how many people are praying. Friends and family members did the same. The encouragement during this rough patch has been constant and I know that these people are carrying out the commandment to “Bear ye one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Gal. 6:2)
Today the light broke through. Many of the complications are turning around and the doctors, for once, seem truly encouraged. I even heard the word “happy” today! One of the doctors said he was happy with everything he is seeing turn around today! Each team of doctors today have had nothing but good news to share when all along this long hospital stay it has been just the opposite. I am truly encouraged because I am seeing answers to prayer come through. Overnight it turned from the darkest storm to the sun overpowering that darkness. I choose to see His hand at work on my behalf. I choose to believe that things are improving and that prayers are being answered.
This post may seem rambling, but I hope you will know that God walks with us through whatever pounding storm we find ourselves in – if we just trust Him. He’s promised to “never leave thee nor forsake thee.” (Heb. 13:5) And He won’t. His promises are true and everlasting. He loves you, and I’m so happy to testify that He loves me too! He’s proven Himself faithful and though I don’t understand everything (and may never), here is what I’ve come to know beyond any shadow of doubt: He loves me. And He loves you too! You can count on that, I assure you. You can trust Him with your life, with your battle, with all that is precious to you.
Lori – we are storming the gates of heaven and claiming that miracle for you and rejoicing with you today – happy is a good word especially when used by doctors!! I thought of this children’s song while reading your blog. May it bring a smile to your face today:
I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart.
Where? Down in my heart!
Where? Down in my heart!
I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart,
down in my heart
down in my heart to stay.
And if the Devil doesn’t like it he can sit on a tack.
OUCH
Sit on a tack.
OUCH
Sit on a tack.
And if the Devil doesn’t like it he can sit on a tack
Sit on a tack today.
I’ve got the peace that passes understanding,
Down in my heart,
Where? Down in my heart!
Where? Down in my heart!
I’ve got the peace that passes understanding,
down in my heart
down in my heart to stay.
I’ve the got love of Jesus, love of Jesus
Down in my heart,
Where? Down in my heart!
Where? Down in my heart!
I’ve the got love of Jesus, love of Jesus
down in my heart,
down in my heart to stay.
I’ve got the wonderful love of my precious redeemer way down in the depths of my heart,
Where? Down in the depths of my heart,
Where? Down in the depths of my heart.
I’ve got the wonderful love of my precious redeemer way down in the depths of my heart;
down in the depths of my heart to stay!
And He cont. to send that same encouragement through you as you remain lifted through your every trial, faithful to give Him glory. I will pray for both you and your doctors as you recover. Yes, He’s on that roller coaster with you and is still moving!
Ginger
Just when I think you have hit the high bar I see you have raised it another notch and gone over the top. You are truly one of the most remarkable and lovely women I have ever known. Love, Rose
So good to hear positive news! We are praying for you continually and believing God to completely heal you so hang in there. You bless and uplift so many so much, especially me. God bless you and we love you so much. We like John Jr. too. We really do and are praying for him and the boys as well.
Lori!
You are an amazing woman of faith! Your love and passion for God exceed the war that you are waging! We love you and we are standing with you, believing for a complete physical healing. We are praying everyday and believe that our God is faithful! Thank you for your faith and love for Jesus.
We love you!
Pastor Todd and Cyndy
Lori, we love you and had wonderful prayer for you tonight …… Your Blog was so beautiful and faith filled. Love Callie
I suspect the old adage has proved true once again that “it is always darkest before the dawn.” I really enjoyed this post, although I am sorry things are so difficult for you. It is awesome that you chose in advance to trust Jesus and His word to you in it all. You are a great blessing.
Dear Lori,the COL prayer team is continually praying for you, and I know you are receiving encouragment from so many sources but I have to tell you I have never been so encouraged by anyone. When someone as yourself is going through what you are and you minister the way you do on a daily basis, it can only be the supernatural flowing straight thorough you from the portals of heaven. I was talking to Rose at church and we were saying, how amazing it is going to be when you are comletely healed and testifing of the GREATNESS of God. But I realize that your testimony right now while you are going through this, is one of the most encouraging tools to people I can imagine. Just know there are so many live you are ministering to through this trial and lives are being changed. I love you and will always hold you up in prayer. Anita
Hi Lori. Your post is wonderful! I’m taking all your words to heart. Great encouragement! I’m happy things are turning. Yes, what a faithful God. I’ve learned…so, so many times…we can’t rely on our fickle feelings. We can only rely on His Word – The Voice of Truth! Thanks for sharing this.
Much love and blessings!
You have encouraged our hearts by your testimony as we quietly get updates. We are praying for you and so glad your day is better.
You are such a blessing to everyone and we continue to pray for full recovery.
Much love and prayer.
Paul