This past week was full of doctor's appointments. On Monday I had an MRI. I have had one on my back and I just closed my eyes so I didn't think of how close the tube was to my face. This time I was face down. I had only been in the tube for about 30 seconds when I felt this wave of nausea and panic sweep over me. I thought about pushing the panic button to get out but I knew they would need to sedate me and put me back in and that would take even longer. I desperately began to pray for God to comfort me, to stop the fear and to give me peace. I sang every worship song I knew for the next 25 minutes. The Bible says He inhabits the praises of His people. If you want to bring God into your circumstances begin to praise Him. Remind yourself that there is nothing,no circumstance, no trouble, no testing that can ever touch you until, first of all, it has come past God and past Christ, right through to you. If it has come that far, it has come with great purpose. (Alan Redpath).
The rest of the week contained 5 more appointments. By Thursday the reality of the journey was beginning to hit me. I was sitting in the waiting room of my radiologist and I thought I was going to fall apart. I always carry something encouraging to read and today it was Stories of Hope by David Jeremiah. These are some of the words that jumped off the pages. "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9
"Life's ups and downs are only yard markers on the playing field of circumstances. Joy and sadness are only temporary conditions, but praise and thanksgiving are permanent expressions."
I began to thank God for His presence in my circumstance and for His comfort. As I sat there I felt God just bathe my troubled and anxious heart with His peace
I was called in to see my doctor. He was a very sweet man named Dr. Lin. He began to look at my paper work and asked if I was Protestant or Catholic because there was a place to put your religious affiliation. I told him I was a Christian. He asked if I wanted him to pray for me. I said yes. He held my hand and prayed the most comforting prayer I could have received. For the next 30 minutes we talked about all my treatment options and what is ahead. He told me He has seen many, many miracles while treating his patients. He encouraged me to let God use it for His glory. I know God sent this man to care for me during my 7 weeks of radiation. I was overwhelmed by my Father's love for me.
He will overwhelm you with His love in your journey through life. Run to His arms and you will find rest for your soul as you face the giants of life.