So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10 NIV)
I had intended to write seven consecutive blogs about “Our Father: A Personal Journey of Discovery into the Lord’s Prayer.” However, there has been so much taking place in my life over recent months that I’ve been sharing a little about this part of my journey instead. I will share some thoughts about Chapter Five of “Our Father” soon, which takes a look at “Give us today our daily bread.” (Matthew 6:11 NIV)
Recently, I’ve experienced some circumstances that have caused me many emotions – fear being one of the biggest. My husband has faced two major surgeries, and he has dealt with some serious health problems aside from those requiring surgery. Less than two months ago, my mother went to her eternal Home in heaven.
I have known for a long time that I could trust my heavenly Father. These aforementioned situations, required me to totally rely on that trust in Him. I’ve seen and experienced God’s faithfulness all throughout my life, but in these days, my need for Him has been deeper than when everything is going relatively smoothly.
I was born with Spina Bifida and Arnold Chiari Malformation (which didn’t become symptomatic until I was an adult). I developed Hydrocephalus as an infant, and have had various other health issues over the years.
My special needs have resulted in a lifetime of depending on others for a lot of help along the way. I’m thankful to God for every person that He has brought into my life. From the day I was born, the person that I depended on most heavily was my mother. Then, twenty four years ago, I met the man that God chose to be my partner in life – my husband, Bruce. Since Bruce and I have been together, there has never been a need that I have had that he hasn’t either filled, or made a valiant effort at doing so.
I’ve had to face the reality of living without Mom, and whereas Bruce has always been there for me to “depend on,” now – he is needing my help more than normal, as he recovers from surgery.
I can’t ever recall feeling as inadequate, or as weak, as I have during these circumstances.
My daily prayer has been, “Lord, this feels like too much for me, but Your word says that You will never allow more trials in my life than I can bear. (see 1 Cor. 10:13) I trust You, and I know that I can do all things because You give me the strength I need. (see Phil. 4:13). I need YOU.”
Friends, He has answered those prayers. I’ve known His faithfulness in my time of need.
My heavenly Father has been there for me. He’s been guiding me, comforting me, strengthening me and encouraging me. This has been one of those times in life when I have truly felt that the Lord has carried me. He has provided for every need that I have had, often through my family and my friend’s loving support.
The difficulties are ongoing, but I am profoundly aware of God’s love and His faithfulness. Even when the people that I have counted on the most are not able to be there for me as they always have been…God is my reliable, unshakable, ultimate source of strength.
For years, I have known that I could trust God, but through this season of life, I am learning a deeper dependence on Him than I knew. He is dependable in every situation, and He will never change.
Do you really ‘know’ that you can trust God, even when your worst fears take place?
My prayer is, “Lord, Please show me any area of my life where I need to develop deeper trust in You. Please help me to trust you more. In Jesus’ Name, AMEN.
