Well, the last few days have been a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, and a test of faith. My daughter had a seizure on the 24th and is having tests and Dr. visits to determine the reason. As this is her second one, it is being treated seriously.
This is one of those tough times that we all face at some point. A time when the rubber meets the road, when our faith is tested; a time when the depth of God’s Word in us rises up and strengthens us.
I guess you could say, how we handle the tough times is a direct reflection of how much time we have spent with the Lord in prayer and fellowship. It is as though we draw on the depth of those moments with Him to bring us through in a way that is pleasing to Him.
In the first couple days - particularly as I was beginning to dose in sleep and just awakening in the morning - I found my mind racing with negative thoughts. At those moments, some of my favourite verses came to me:
Philippians 4:6-9
6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Wow, what would we do without God’s promises? As I began praying - even anticipating His peace that would enfold me - I felt my faith build. I remembered how He had come through so many times before and what awesome things He accomplished during some terrible situations. I remembered how He had blessed me with my daughter.
At times I found myself clinging to verses 8 and 9, piece-by-piece, testing my thoughts and bringing them in line with His Word.
But more than anything, I was reminded of His great love for me and my family and how He is in control of everything.
So, despite the “not-knowing” or understanding, my faith is strong and I am at peace…just as His Word promises!