Overshadowed by the Goodness of God

I love nostalgia - remembering special times, events, and memories.  I'm kinda sentimental in that regard.  There's a nostalgia trend at the moment going around about remembering things from 10 years ago.  I'm having a hard time embracing this one.

This coming Monday, 10 years ago, my life was turned upside down.  Floyd woke up with pain in his left leg - surely it was nothing serious.  24 hours later he was in ICU battling for his life!  He spent the next 5 years, 3 months, and 5 days in the hospital.  In the beginning I was with him all day, every day.  Over time as my battle with cancer heated up, I could only go several times a week to be with him.  Thankfully there was a team of people who supported me in going to be with him.  Several times I was battling for my own life.  I'm so grateful to be alive!  My heart is still tender as I think back to these years.

So, no, I'm not filled with nostalgia for what started 10 years ago - but I am filled with gratitude!  Lots of it!  I would never choose for someone to go through the same thing - but I can say with confidence that there will be good things in the midst of the hard season.  When I look back, I remember the sorrow and pain......but, honestly it's over shadowed by the goodness of God.  As much as I wouldn't want to go through it all again, I also wouldn't want to miss the closeness, comfort, sweet grace, and daily strength from the Lord that I experienced!!

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance."  James 1:2,3

"Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."  2 Corinthians 4:17

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."  Lamentations 3:22,23

"Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job.  Instead, be glad that you are in the thick of what Christ experienced.  This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner."  1 Peter 4:12,13  The Message

We live in a time when there's a spiritual battle going on for the hearts and lives of men and women.  I hear of "testings" that God's children are walking in.  It's not easy, but, rest assured, God is at work.  He's for us.  He's with us.  He will help us with everything we face.  Don't despair - keep looking to Him.  I can testify to His goodness and faithfulness!