“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” Isaiah 46:4

Embracing Difficulty

Part 2

If you missed Part 1 yesterday, you might want to go back and read it now.

Growing through the hard times means not giving up. Not accepting problems, difficulties, and setbacks as irreversible. Failure and difficulties are often the back door to success. Whatever it is, we need to pick up the pieces and begin again. We serve a God of infinite new beginnings. There is nothing in our lives that hasn’t been filtered through the protective hands of God (Romans 8:31-39). If He has allowed something to come our way, He intends to use it for good in our lives.

So… my very teaching reminded me that my response to the new chemo was not the right one. While “dreading” it may be a normal, human instinct, I needed to “embrace” what is coming, and look to God for His grace and strength. I cried, thanked the Lord for reminding me of this important principle, and started all over in my heart attitude in regards to what is ahead.

Amazingly, wonderfully, the heaviness lifted when I did this. No, I’m not looking forward to it!! But I’ve “embraced” what God has allowed, and I am confident His faithfulness will continue with me as I walk through this new season.

Will you also please be praying for me as I enter this season? Pray that I can keep my focus on Him. Pray that He will smooth the rough places. Pray that the chemo will be effective in killing the microscopic bits of cancer that are left after the surgery. And pray that Floyd will be okay while I can’t give his care as much of my attention.

“As for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.” Micah 7:7

“The Lord gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”  Isaiah 40:29-31

I feel weak and weary, but as I embrace what is ahead, I’m also calling on the promises of His Word for my help and strength. He is good and faithful! And He hasn’t failed me yet!!

“Father, we pray You would heal Sally and give her the strength she needs for this next season of treatment. Show her Your loving kindness. Bless her for this encouraging word to us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”