During my quiet time tonight just before I went to bed I decided to read my bible for some encouragement. As I turned to my favorite scripture there was a devotion that include the scripture as the required reading. I read the Scriptures then turned my attention back to the devotion.
The first sentence struck a cord. It read, "There are times in the lives of all God's children when we are called on to suffer." The devotion then called my attention to Romans 5:3-4, "suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."
The reading had confirmed for me what I knew a few weeks back when I first discovered this lump. I knew that this journey was not about me or for me. It was an experience that would help others who are struggling or know someone struggling with life.
This morning a friend texted me a simple hello. As we began to exchange texts her responses took a turn. She began to share her fears of not being here to see her children grow up. I inquired why she was feeling that way. As she began to try to explain, I asked her if it was okay to call her. With 15 minutes to spare before a meeting I rushed outside and called. She explained her situation. I began to encourage her. I told her that she had to find her inner fighter and stand up to feelings of defeat, doubt, and fear. We must approach our situations with strength and determination. Giving up and giving in is not an option.
In the midst of the conversation I had managed to encourage myself. I know people know I'm an optimist. The truth is that I get sad. I cry. I need to be picked up and dusted off. I get weak. I don't like when people tell me not to feel. People think when you're a believer your not allowed to feel down or doubt. Truth is as a believer I'm still human.
During this time when I'm called to suffer, I will continue to trust in the Lord and encourage others to do the same. Reality is sometimes this cookie is not so tough.
2 comments:
Mark let me be the 1st to say it's okay to cry, to even fall. But know when you fall that you have THOUSANDS surrounding you ready to catch you and lift you back up! You are one of God's golden angel's and he will give you your wings to fly through this journey. I've learned that God sometimes uses his most delicate and precious flowers to be his voice. Mark you are faith, you are strength, you are God's voice, and most of all a child of God!
I say cry, cry out to God, because when he don't want to see no more tears roll down your face, he will wipe them ALL away. There will be no more tears to fall, but hundreds of smiles to shine.... God never said that our time here on this earth would be easy, but he did PROMISE to never leave nor for sake us.... I am with you, your husband is with you, your family is with you and most of all God's army is with you. Hugs, Kisses, and Luv! #onetoughcookie
Indeed Tasha! I will cry and cry out loud. I need God's strength. His word says that when we are weak, He is strong. I am definitely getting through this with Him. I wouldn't have it any other way. XOXO #teamtoughcookie
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