God Room

I shared this past Tuesday about the "miracle of the rain" in 1985 in Randers, Denmark.  Being reminded of that stirred my faith to trust God for new miracles.

A few days ago, a friend reminded me of a message of Floyd's - "Trusting God for the Impossible."  I decided to listen to it.  It stirred my faith once again - and it touched my heart as Floyd shared some sweet affirmations about me.  It was a precious birthday gift to me.

One of the things Floyd talked about is "God Room."  It's when we do everything possible, and then we step into the area where things are impossible.....God Room.  We have to leave things in His hands - trusting Him to do what we can't.  I feel like there are several things in my life in the area of God Room.  I need to stir my faith to trust God for things I can't do - things that are impossible.

"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."  Matthew 19:26

"Is anything too hard for the Lord?"  Genesis 18:14

"Almighty Lord, you made heaven and earth by your great strength and powerful arm.  Nothing is too hard for you."  Jeremiah 32:17

"I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted."  Job 42:2

"With man it is impossible, but not with God.  For all things are possible with God."  Mark 10:27

"All things are possible for one who believes."  Mark 19:23

"If God is for us, who can be against us?"  Romans 8:31

"Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."  Ephesians 3:20

I've seen many miracles in my life, and I long to see more.  I have fresh faith stirred in my heart to believe God for them.  I'm waiting.  God is so awesome!

Floyd's message - and many others - are on the All Nations International website in the Founders Library.  There are audio and video teachings, books, and news.  It's a work in progress with more and more things being continually added to it. 

To find Floyd’s message click on All Nations in the menu bar where you will find the drop down link for Founders' Library. 

Miracle Working God

A relative was recently in Randers, Denmark where we had a GO Festival in 1985.  Many initiatives and callings came out of that time.  While visiting there people were recalling the "miracle" during the Festival.  Luis Palau was scheduled to speak in an outdoor setting to 9000 people in attendance.  A pouring rain fell over the city - but not over the outdoor stadium.  Someone showed our relative a newspaper clipping from 1985 with a photo of the dry stadium and the rain coming down around it.  I had totally forgotten about this until our relative reminded me.  All these years later, it encouraged me again....and I thanked the Lord for the miracle.  It was such a wonderful testimony!  It increased my faith to pray for new miracles.

I'm learning that grief is an unpredictable thing....and it seemingly never goes away.  It's been over 3 years since Floyd passed away - and it was 5+ years before that when I "lost" him to the sickness that enveloped him.  I've grieved for a long time.  And yet, sometimes grief hits my heart so hard that it seems like it all just happened.

Special days (like his recent birthday), an unexpected memory, a lonely moment, just about anything.....can cause the grief to well up.  I've known Floyd since I was 16 years old.  He's been the love of my life and my best friend.  I still feel like part of me is missing.  I thought I would "get over" grief after a while, but I think it will be with me for a long time - maybe for the rest of my life.

In the midst of these recent tender days, there was a photo of Floyd in an All Nations International newsletter.  I love the photo and the quote.  I've posted it above.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."  Psalm 34:18

"Jesus wept."  John 11:35

When Lazarus died, Jesus wept.  He grieved over His friend - before He raised him from the dead.  Jesus understands our grief.  I find that a comfort.  He faced everything we face, and comforts us when we go through life's difficulties.  I'm so grateful for that!

Partaking in Christ's Suffering

I've been thinking recently about the verses that tell us to partake in Christ's sufferings.  We think immediately of the cross and wonder how that could possibly pertain to us.  But Christ suffered in so many other ways.  

He suffered loneliness because of not being understood.  He suffered criticism.  He gave up home and comforts to travel and minister to people.  He poured out Himself in teaching and healing people to the point of exhaustion.  He had to deal with a "team" of difficult men in order to train and disciple them.  He spent 40 days alone in the wilderness - and had to resist the temptations and taunting of the enemy.  He suffered in countless ways.

When we go through difficult things, we tend to get frustrated and upset.  We don't see any of it as partaking in Christ's sufferings - but what if we changed our perspective?  Maybe it would help us get through the hard times - and help us press into the Lord for grace and strength.  

None of us like going through difficulty, but we tell the Lord we want to be more like Him.  I think it would be good to remind myself of that when hard things come my way!  Being more like Christ requires dying daily to self.  I need to keep that in my focus during hard times.  

"Do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy."  1 Peter 4:12-16

"Since we are His children, we are his heirs.  In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory.  But if we are to share His glory, we must also share His sufferings.  Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory He will reveal to us later."  Romans 8:17,18

"I want to know Christ - yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings."  Philippians 3:10

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross."  Hebrews 12:2

"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."  Philippians 4:13

The Lord has promised to always be with us.  So if we go through hard things as partaking in Christ's sufferings - He will be with us to get through them.  I am so grateful for His grace and help.  He is always faithful!

He's in the Simple Things

I've had a couple things happen recently that have reminded me that we serve a God who is involved in the practical details of life.  He's with us in the simple every day things.  A few days ago we noticed that the wires to one of my outdoor security alarm sensors had been cut.  We wondered if someone had jumped over the gate to cut it during the day with the intent of returning at night for robbery.  It was unsettling.

I immediately prayed - speaking out the Lord's protection over me....especially without Floyd.  And then I spent the next 2 1/2 hours following through on this.  I called the security company and asked them to do extra patrols during the night.  I alerted my neighbors.  I looked on my camera footage to check if I could see anything.  And I called the technician who works on the security system.  He was awesome.  In spite of it being Friday afternoon, and the end of his work day - he came from the other side of the valley to help sort this out "so I could sleep better."  I was so grateful!  He got everything fixed and back to normal.

The wonderful thing, too, was that during this whole process I felt such peace.  I was busy working to take care of everything.....but I wasn't fearful.  My heart was at rest.  It definitely was a "peace that passes understanding" that could only come from the Lord!  I knew the Lord had been with me in a special way.

When we came to South Africa we were given a "bakkie" (a truck to Americans).  It was such a special gift!  Before long we realized that I also needed a vehicle.  Floyd and I were often going separate ways to meetings and appointments.  We prayed and were given a gift to buy me a car.  We found a 2001 Toyota Rav that was perfect.  It had been driven by a lady to just run her errands - low mileage and in immaculate condition and with an unbelievably low price.  I'm sure the Lord saved it for me because it should have sold!

It is now 23 years old.  It has been a faithful, reliable car.  I've maintained regular service for it.  It recently went in for a check up, and a number of things needed to be repaired and replaced.  I was a bit shocked when I learned what it would all cost - but, again, as I prayed I had such peace that all was well.  The Lord reminded me that He had saved that car for me, and it would continue to serve me for a long time.  I felt carried by the Lord in the process.

Both of these things made me miss Floyd.  He would normally be helping me with the "details" of life.  In his absence, the Lord has truly undergirded me and been with me.  It's been a "blessed assurance" to see how He has covered and protected me.  I'm so thankful!

"Come near to God and He will come near to you."  James 4:8

"Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it."  Psalm 37:5

"He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is firmly fixed, trusting in the Lord."  Psalm 112:7

"Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord.  They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness."  Psalm 89:15, 16

I have truly been blessed as the Lord has helped me with the practical things of daily life.  I'm so very grateful for His loving care.  I can bring every detail to Him.  He listens, He cares, and He helps me.  I feel safe and secure "under His wings."

We Need Jesus More Than Ever

There are so many things happening in our world these days that "shake" us.  Things that undermine our security and sense of well being.  Things that bring fear to our hearts.  Things that rob us of peace.  Things that make us concerned for the future.  Just listening to or reading the news each day requires a lot of courage.  We live in a world that needs the love of Jesus more than ever.

In times like these, we need to hold onto the Rock, our Lord Jesus, more than ever.  We need to trust Him, knowing that He is at work and has a plan for our world.  No matter how bad things look or how shaken we are, we can rest in Him.  He is watching over us.  He is near to us, and He is working in our lives.

I have several friends going through really difficult things.  This is the reassurance for them and for all of us.  He loves us, He is mindful of every situation we're facing, and He is at work to help us.  His love and care for us is unfailing - even if we can't see it clearly in our hard situation.

" 'Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,' says the Lord, who has compassion on you."  Isaiah 54:10

He is unshakeable!!!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:6,7

"Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary."  Isaiah 40:30, 31 NASB

"My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."  Psalm 63:8

"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms."  Deuteronomy 33:27

"Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."  Psalm 62:8

I can't make it through even one day without the Lord's grace, strength, and help.  He is available 24/7 to hear my cry for help.  He is with me, even carrying me, in each thing I'm facing.  I'm so grateful to Him!

We are Not Alone

I know there are many who are going through difficult times.  Thank goodness we are not alone.  God is with us - our refuge, our help in times of trouble.  How faithful He is.

"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms."  Deuteronomy 33:27

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.  Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul."  Psalm 143:8

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."  Psalm 46:1

"The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms."  Deuteronomy 33:27

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe."  Proverbs 18:10

"The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my Rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."  Psalm 18:2

On hard days, it helps me to speak out the promises from the Word of how God is there to help me.  There are so many.  I quote them, sing them, pray them.  They become alive in my heart as I do that.  He is with me, always there to help me.  And He even "carries" me when my strength lags.  I'm so grateful.

Reminded of His Goodness

In the midst of some recent difficult days, the Lord spoke three specific, encouraging words to my heart.

The first is that I'm not able to cope with the difficult things with my physical strength.  When hardships come, it's the inner strength that He gives me that helps me get through the outside pressures.  He empowers me from within!  He helps me not to falter when life's storms hit me.  "The power of Christ within you is greater than the pressure of troubles around you."  (anonymous)

"I pray that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man."  Ephesians 3:16

The second thing is the Lord reminding me that He cares.  He is mindful of everything I'm facing, and He cares for me.  He loves me as His precious daughter, and He's working to help me.

"Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."  1 Peter 5:7

And the third thing is that He's carrying me.  I may feel alone, but He's right with me and even carrying me when I'm weary.  I may be weak from the various circumstances I'm facing, but I can relax into His arms and let Him carry me.  So precious!

"I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."  Isaiah 46:4

I'm grateful for your encouraging messages - thank you!  And I'm grateful for the sweet reminders from the Lord!  He is so faithful.

Our Times are in His Hands

As I was going through some things recently, I came across an email to a friend from several years ago.  It reminded me of some things from these last years.  I felt impressed to share them here.

When we go through difficult times - trials, sickness, suffering, etc. - we tend to spiritualize those times.  We may feel it's an attack of the enemy - and sometimes it is!  We may feel lonely, isolated, discouraged even.  One of the things I've learned is that these difficult times may be allowed by the Lord.  He uses them to draw us closer to Him.  

I've been keenly aware of these recent years being a time of "isolation."  I've had friends around, but I was the one going through the hard things.  I've HAD to press into the Lord to survive.  Because of that, it's been a rich and precious time.  My walk with the Lord has gone to new depths because of this.  It's a treasure and gift that I'm so grateful for!

When I reflected back, I could see several times when the Lord allowed similar seasons in my life.  Each one of those times has been a rich time of pressing into the Lord.  There's been growth that I wouldn't have expected.  I haven't particularly "liked" those seasons, but I can see the fruit that the Lord brought into my life each time.  I've learned to trust the Lord's goodness and wisdom in allowing me to go through these times - knowing He sees what is best for me, even if it's hard.

"Oh taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him."  Psalm 34:8

"Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord."  Psalm 89:15

"O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water."  Psalm 63:1

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."  Deuteronomy 31:8

"I said to the Lord, 'You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.' "  Psalm 19:2

Our days, our times, our seasons are in God's hands.  He will be with us in whatever we walk through, and will use it for good in our lives.  Nothing is "wasted" in God's eyes.

Laughter is a Gift

I was having a hard day recently.  Several things had happened that pulled me down.  My heart was heavy, and I wasn't sure what to do about some things.  I felt alone, too, as I didn't have Floyd to talk to.

Then something happened that made me laugh - one of those deep, belly jiggling laughs.  I laughed for a couple minutes - and then felt so much better.  It reminded me of the Bible verses that talk about this.  "A merry heart does good, like medicine."  Proverbs 17:22

Many years ago when our daughter was quite ill, one of her doctors suggested watching funny movies.  He thought laughter would help her!  There are many known physical benefits from laughter.  Laughter, it seems, is a very healthy thing!!

I came across the cartoon attached at the bottom.  I don't know the source, but I agree with the statement!  Laughter is definitely good exercise.  It made me laugh too!

"Our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, 'The Lord has done great things for them.' "  Psalm 126:2

"A time to cry and a time to laugh."  Ecclesiastes 3:4

"He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy."  Job 8:21

"Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh."  Luke 6:21

"The cheerful heart has a continual feast."  Proverbs 15:15

There are long lists of the benefits of laughter to us physically.  Do a google search if you're interested.  It's really quite amazing.  I just know it really helps me.

"Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face."  - Victor Hugo

Laughter is a gift to us from the Lord!!

The Life Blood of Gratitude

I shared last week that hope has been like a kind of oxygen that helped my heart to survive these last 10 difficult years.  In the midst of a difficult day recently, the Lord reminded me of another key thing that has gotten me through these things.  Gratitude and thankfulness have been life giving to my soul.

On the hardest day, in the darkest night, when feeling so alone that I could hardly catch my breath - the Lord has encouraged me to be thankful.  It might be for the smallest thing, but gratitude lifts despair and helps me keep things in perspective.  For a while I kept a daily list of things to be thankful for just so I could train my thoughts to think that way.  From small things like the ocean beauty I look at to big things like being alive......there is so much to be thankful for.

Hope is like the oxygen I breath, and gratitude is like the blood coursing through my veins.  Both are vital.  Both protect us from sinking in the stormy trials.  Both keep us focused on the Lord.  He is our lifeline!

"Give thanks in all circumstances."  1 Thessalonians 5:18

"Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."  Colossians 3:17

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good."  1 Chronicles 16:34

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts...and be thankful."  Colossians 3:15

"His praise shall continually be in my mouth."  Psalm 34:1

I have sat down several times to write this update today.  Each time I have been interrupted by something.  It's been a busy day - a couple things have been frustrating.  So, I started with being thankful - and then wrote the update.  Thankfulness puts everything in perspective.

The Oxygen of Hope

A very big key ingredient of my journey for the last 10 years has been hope.  I remember the day I was diagnosed with the big C word (cancer).  It was devastating!  Floyd and I sat in the car and cried together - and then we prayed.  We gave the burden of it to the Lord.   We asked for healing.   We asked for grace for the path ahead.  And we asked for hope to be planted in our hearts.  I believe it was - a kernel of hope was deposited deeply and securely in our hearts.

Through the ups and downs.  Through the good days and bad days.  In the day, and especially in the nights - hope was there.  It cried out to the Lord for healing relief and for strength to carry on. We breath oxygen to live.  Hope became a kind of oxygen that helped my heart survive.  

My oncologist says that hope is a key ingredient in her patients that make it through cancer treatment.  She said some of her patients just give up as soon as they hear the word cancer.  And others gear up for the battle and cling to hope in their hearts.  She says without hope, they don't make it. 

I picture that kernel of hope growing into a tree in my heart.  It's been fed by the Lord as its grown.  I continue to cling to it as my journey goes on.  I couldn't have made it without hope.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."  Romans 15:13

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."  Jeremiah 29:11

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."  Romans 12:12

"For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from Him.  He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken."  Psalm 62:5,6

During this month as I've thanked the Lord that I'm still alive after 10 years of living with and battling cancer, I am so aware of the hope that God put in my heart all those years ago sitting in that car.  Thank you, Lord, for the oxygen of hope in my heart!   It's been a lifesaver.

I Have the Lord

I was watching a movie a couple days ago.  One of the characters said - "I can't concentrate on the 'what ifs.' I have to look at the 'what do I have.' "  I stopped and thought about that.  I've said similar things in past posts, but I pondered the truth of these words again.

It doesn't matter how many times I've had to choose not to look at the "what ifs."  There are always new situations when I have to make the choice again.  We face new challenges, new hardships, new things that we have no control over......and we can't get stuck in the "what ifs."  We'll drown in the sea of thinking "what if,"  "if only," or "why."

In each situation, stopping to think "what do I have" is a fruitful exercise......because we always have the Lord to help us!!!  It's not only what we may have physically, it's also what we have in knowing God is continually with us, holding our right hand, and guiding us.  I "have" the Lord - that's more than enough.  

So much of the battle in getting through a hard time is in the mind.  What we choose to think about will impact us in so many ways.  As we focus on what we "have" in the Lord, it strengthens us to get through the trial.  We "have" so much!

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."  2 Timothy 1:7

"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."  Colossians 3:2

"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you."  Isaiah 26:3

"Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."  Proverbs 4:23

"A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."  Proverbs 17:22

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:6,7

I've been coming to the conclusion that it's a daily exercise to think about "what I have."  If I start each day that way, it lifts the burden from my heart of whatever I'm facing.  I "have" the Lord, and He will help me get through whatever I face.  He's always faithful to do that!

Mountain Tops and Valleys

I was looking at a magazine this week.  A well known author and filmmaker was talking about his success.  He said the big secret to success is that you have to persevere.  I immediately thought that the Christian life is just like that.  We have ups and downs, mountain tops and valleys, good times and hard times, sickness and health, times of plenty and times of need - and through it all we have to persevere!  We can't give up!  We have to keep going and lean into God to get us through whatever time or season we're in.

I think I've experienced all the "times" I listed above in recent years.  I could not have made it without God's grace and strength.  But over and over I had to commit my heart to persevere.  I think that was key to making it.  

It's important to differentiate between striving and persevering.  Striving is done in our own strength - persevering is trusting the Lord to come along beside us and help us make it through.  His grace truly is sufficient when we need it in the tough times.

When it's hard, and I feel like I'm not quite measuring up - perhaps even feeling like I'm a failure - it's important to bring those feelings to the Lord.  He is there to show me the way - to correct me if needed - to encourage me - and to affirm me of His love and care for me in the hard situation.  I couldn't have made it without His loving help.

"Deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love."  Psalm 6:4

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."  Proverbs 3:5

"What shall we say to these things?  If God is for us, who can be against us?"  Romans 8:31

"Thanks be to God!  He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."  1 Corinthians 15:57

"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."  Deuteronomy 31:8

"Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."  Psalm 62:8

Someone said to me recently that they were surprised at all the difficult things they were facing.  Things had been good for so long that they never anticipated the hardships that suddenly seemed to engulf them.  Perhaps we can all relate to that in some way.  The "hard things" often surprise us.  But God is with us.  As we choose to persevere, He'll help us in every way that we need.  He's so faithful!

An Undeserved Miracle

Last week I posted about my two special days recently - the "anniversary" of Floyd's passing and our wedding anniversary.  Both days were special.  One was tender and one was sweet.  On both days I sensed the Lord's comfort and presence in a precious way.

Now - the month of June is special to me!  Ten years ago this month I was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer.  It's been a rough journey - 8 surgeries, 4 types of chemo treatment, radiation therapy, various physical therapies, and multiple homeopathic/natural treatments/supplements (and all while making sure Floyd was well cared for during his 5+ years in the hospital).  I constantly research different treatments.  I've found several things very helpful - especially in treating symptoms - and have shared with my doctors things that they have been able to recommend to other patients.

My first oncologist had a somewhat negative viewpoint.  She "only believed in medicine" and wasn't open to any supplementary treatments.  She said in her experience some patients survived a few months, some a year/maybe two, and the longest one survived 5 years.  I felt like she had already given up on me.  I was praying and doing my best to survive - especially so that I could care for Floyd.  I finally realized I needed to find another oncologist.

The doctor I've been with now for about 7 years is wonderful!  She is "open" to anything that I find helpful.  She is supportive, she listens, she's available to me anytime, and she's very kind.  She says she thinks the most important things are for her cancer patients to have hope - and to be involved in their own care.....so my researching and finding things that have helped me is, in her mind, very important!!  I love her attitude.  She calls me a "miracle" with having survived so many years.  I agree with her - it's only by God's grace that I'm still alive.  I'm so grateful.

I realize that every day is a precious gift from the Lord.  I celebrate each day - and have no idea how many more I'll have......I hope it's a lot!  I have things I still want to do.

"I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!"  Psalm 27:13

"The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; He knows those who take refuge in Him."  Nahum 1:7

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life."  Psalm 23:6

"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him."  Romans 8:28

"I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11

I share that verse from Jeremiah often because it means so much to me.  The truth of it is powerful.  Even when we don't fully understand - His plans for us are good.....they give hope and a future.

These are just a very few of the verses that have meant a lot to me on this ten year journey.  The Word is full of God's promises, comfort, love, and care for us.

As I walk through this 10 year anniversary month, I find myself spontaneously thanking the Lord for His goodness to me!  I don't deserve this "miracle," but I'm very grateful. 

God Has Been With Us

Sunday was a special day for me - it was a sweet day.  57 years ago, Floyd and I said our "I do" to each other.  I don't think either of us could have imagined what the future had in store for us.  We've had a life of adventure - good times and hard times - ups and downs - victories and defeats.  We've been together in sickness and in health as we pledged......both richer and poorer.  

Those vows we say to each other are important - and they're tested!  I promised to go where Floyd went.....and I did!  To traveling and living out of a suitcase for 4+ years.  To Afghanistan.  To living on a houseboat, while pregnant, with a toddler and a puppy.  To living in the red light district.  To moving - lots and lots and lots of moving.

The one constant thing through it all is that God has been with us......faithfully, always, abundantly - with us!  Day by day.  Night by night.  Never leaving us.  Whatever we were going through, we knew He'd help us.

Last week as the "anniversary" of Floyd's passing came, someone sent me the photo above.  My friend pointed out that in the photo (taken at an All Nations gathering in Taiwan) everyone was looking out to the ocean - except Floyd.....who was turned to me.  I always knew I was loved and cherished by Floyd.  That was so special to be reminded of that.

"The steps of the God-pursuing ones follow firmly in the footsteps of the Lord, and God delights in every step they take to follow Him.  If they stumble badly they will still survive, for the Lord lifts them up with His hands.  I was once young, but now I'm old.  Not once have I found a lover of God forsaken by Him, not have any of their children gone hungry.  Instead, I've found the Godly ones to be generous ones who give freely to others.  Their children are blessed and become a blessing."  Psalm 37:23-26  TPT

These special days mean so much to me.  It's a good opportunity to reflect and remember - and thank the Lord for His faithfulness.   I have so much to be thankful for.

Now What?

After sharing in my last post about not dwelling on the "whys" when something happens in our life - a friend wrote me about something special she heard in a speech recently.  Instead of saying "why?/or why me?" - say "now what?"  I love that!  Because God always has a new plan in store for us when something doesn't go the way we planned.

When plans change, when someone passes away, when we get sick, when any trial comes our way - God doesn't scratch His head and wonder what to do now.  No!!  He has a new plan ready - a good plan, often a better plan.  He's ready to move on in continuing to see His plans and purposes fulfilled.  Many times it's in a better plan than the original one.

I've watched this happen in various ways in our lives - and in the lives of others.  It gives me such comfort to know that God is watching over us, and always has a wonderful plan for us - come what may!  He never leaves us to try and figure it out alone.  He's with us.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11

"The plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations."  Psalm 33:11

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."  Proverbs 3:5,6

"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."  Romans 8:28

In everything I've walked through, I have clung to the promise that God would give me "hope and a future."  He has proved faithful!

Trust in God

Tomorrow (May 29th) is a special day in a couple ways.  Firstly, it's a tender day for me as it marks 3 years since Floyd went to be with Jesus.  The time has flown by - it doesn't seem that long.  In some ways, it just feels like a few weeks ago.  And, on the other hand, it feels like it was ages ago.  Time is a strange thing.

The second thing is that it's our national elections here in South Africa.  I'm a permanent resident, but not a natural born South African - so I'm not allowed to vote.  But I sure am praying!!  There are a lot of things at stake in the elections.  Some are saying it's the most important election since 1994 when apartheid came to an end.  Please pray that God's sovereign hand will be on these elections.

There are a number of countries facing big elections this year - the US and UK among them.  It feels like so much is happening.  I've been thinking that in times of change, in times of unsettledness, and in any time of trial - trust in God's rule overall is such an important foundation.  Trust has been a key element for everything in my life in the past decade!  If I don't have my trust firmly and securely in the Lord then other things can feel so vulnerable.

Asking questions of why/why not - or what if - can undermine that trust.  Honestly, I have lots of questions about things in my life, in our family, and in our ministry.  But dwelling on those questions won't do any good.  I don't think I'll have answers until I stand before the Lord in heaven - and my questions probably won't even matter then.  But I'll have eternity - so maybe I'll get a chance to chat with God about it all!  But, for now, I just need to keep my trust in the Lord firm and secure.  He is absolutely trustworthy.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding."  Proverbs 3:5

"Those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you."  Psalm 9:10

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."  Isaiah 26:3

"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe."  Proverbs 29:25

"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God."  Psalm 20:7

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me.  My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him."  Psalm 28:7

When my trust is firm and secure in the Lord - everything else falls into place.....even if I have questions about it all.  Trust keeps my heart at peace, and allows me to receive all I need from the Lord to make it through whatever I'm facing.

I completely trust my wonderful, faithful Father!

Friendship

I've been thinking a lot the last few days about friendship.  I had a long visit with a friend just "catching up."  We covered the world in our chat!  It was so good to talk together.

I also celebrated the birthday of a dear friend - someone I've known for close to 40 years.  That makes us both sound old. :)  But what a gift the friend has been through all those years.

And I've thought of friends all over the world - long time friends, new friends, close friends, and friends I'm just getting to know.  Each friend is a sweet, precious gift to me.  

I also have a lot of "prayer friends."  So many have prayed for me and for our family these last years as we went through some really difficult times.  I don't know each one of them personally, but I'm very grateful to them - and I don't think I'd have made it without their loving, faithful prayers!  Each one is definitely a gift to me!

I spoke once on the "Gift of People."  We are truly a gift to each other from the Lord!  God puts us in each other's lives to support and strengthen each other.  I am so grateful for each friend, known and unknown, in my life - for the love, prayers, encouragement, support......every one of them is such a beautiful gift to me!!

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."  Proverbs 17:17

"There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."  Proverbs 18:24

"The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense."  Proverbs 27:9

"Encourage one another and build each other up."  1 Thessalonians 5:11

"If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.  But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up."  Ecclesiastes 4:10

There are so many beautiful verses about friendship.  We are created to love and help one another.  Take a moment to think of the friends God has given you.  And thank Him!  

And over and above it all - I'm so grateful for the precious friendship of the Lord!!  He is my everything.

Be on Guard

I've been pondering over the stressful season I've just walked through in order to glean all the lessons God has for me in it.  Something that I know of from the past has "jumped" out at me again in such clarity.  I want to share it.

When we go through a stressful time - physically, emotionally, or spiritually.....or all three - there is a period of time when we are "low."  During this time we are vulnerable.  The enemy loves to exploit that low time.  He may whisper lies in our ears.  He may put pressure in various areas of our lives to make the season harder.  He will do just about anything he can to pull us down and draw us away from our wonderful Father.  We have to be on guard!

When I was so weary, I knew I needed to have my "shield of faith" up for protection from the wily ways of the enemy - and yet my heart felt heavy with discouragement just from being so tired.  I had to spiritually battle against the enemy.  God heard my cries - protected me - and the heaviness lifted.  If we're not on guard, the enemy can have a heyday.

I was reminded of Elijah.  He had witnessed amazing answers to prayer.  He stopped the rain for years before starting it once again.  He multiplied the widow's small supply of food and raised her son from the dead.  He called down fire from heaven, and slayed the false prophets of Baal.  I would say those were some pretty amazing answers to prayer!!!  

And yet, when Jezebel threatened him - he became so depressed and discouraged that he wanted to die.  At the height of all those victories, the enemy used Jezebel to speak lies to Elijah.  All I did was organize a bunch of house repairs - but I was so weary from it all that I knew I was vulnerable.  I remembered Elijah and the lessons from his situation.  I chose to focus on listening to God's gentle whisper and still small voice!  It was there.

During the years of Floyd's illness and my ongoing cancer battle, I daily asked the Lord to protect me - in fact, I usually asked him many times each day.  Whatever stressful time we're in, we need to keep our eyes on the Lord and our ears tuned to His words.  We need to stand against the voice of the enemy.  I'm so grateful the Lord helped me learn this lesson again.

A favorite verse of mine is Philippians 4:8:  "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."

When we think about all the good things - it puts everything else into perspective!  There is power in what we set our minds to focus on.

"Why, my soul, are you downcast?  Why so disturbed within me?  Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God."  Psalm 42:5

"Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord."  Psalm 31:24

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  Matthew 11:28

"God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear."  1 Corinthians 10:13

"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."  Deuteronomy 31:8

There are soooo many verses of promise that God will be with us when we go through stressful seasons.  We just  need to stay close to Him.  He will carry us through.

Hope for Each New Day

During the last four weeks I have been dealing with urgent house repairs.  One repair exposed another that needed work, and another, and another.  It ended up being very intense and stressful for me.  I constantly needed to answer questions and make sure things were being done the right way.  I pushed my way through it, and was exhausted by the time it was all done.  

There are many times that I miss Floyd, and this was certainly one of them.  Every day I pressed into the Lord and asked for His help, grace, wisdom, and strength.  He met me!  I'm still thanking Him for getting me through everything.

After those intense, stressful weeks a friend sent me a verse that is familiar to me and such an awesome promise, "As your days, so shall your strength be."  Deuteronomy 33:25  What a wonderful promise to hang onto in difficult times.  God knows what each day holds for us - and He'll give us enough strength for that day.  Thank you Lord!

As I thought about this verse I realised that in the midst of the difficult days, there was a constant under lying peace and even joy.  I think I didn't even realize it so much at the time, but in looking back it's so clear.  At the end of each day I was so tired I could hardly eat dinner and then go right to bed.  But my heart was at peace - and there was joy in the process because of God's presence with me.  I am sure that is a big part of what carried me through.

The best way to find that joy is to thank the Lord all through the day as He helps me.  With each decision - thank Him for giving me wisdom.  With each new problem - thank Him in advance for helping me.

Yesterday morning I woke up to 3 problems.  It was overwhelming and discouraging.  I wasn't sure how to deal with them......so I started talking to the Lord.  I thanked Him for answers in advance.  I spoke out my trust in His faithfulness.  I asked Him to guide me.  And before the end of the day - all 3 problems were solved.  It's not empty words when I say I can't make it on my own.  It's the truth of what I'm facing in my life and God is so good to me.

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.  Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul."  Psalm 143:8

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."  Romans 12:12

"A man's mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps and makes them sure."  Proverbs 16:9

"A man's steps are directed by the Lord.  How then can anyone understand his own way?"  Proverbs 20:24

"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."  Deuteronomy 31:8

Knowing He goes before me, I can sleep in peace and awaken with hope for each new day.  How good the Lord is.