“’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
Open Doors
It was a bit nerve racking as I waited at my last checkup to see what the verdict was for my condition. I have a tumor that couldn’t be removed in the big surgery in November 2020. To do so would have irreparably damaged several nearby organs. So I know I’ll always have cancer unless there’s a healing miracle. I would love to hear the words “cancer free”—but I was grateful when I heard the words “the tumor hasn’t grown.” That is wonderful news!
After being so frail when I came home from the six weeks in the hospital after my surgery, I worked all last year to try and rebuild my health and strength. The doctor feels I’m doing very well. When I had my original diagnosis, the doctor didn’t think I’d make it for even two years. This coming June will be eight years. I know God’s hand has been upon me. I am so thankful. I will continue with my current treatments, and continue praying for full healing.
Two prayer requests: I am dealing with a small infection. Please pray for it to be fully cleared up. Also, I am struggling with sleep again. I’d appreciate your prayers for that.
Some have asked about my plans for the future. Unless God were to speak in some dramatic way, I am staying in South Africa. This is home. When Floyd and I moved here, we felt we would live out our years here. That certainly proved true for Floyd. I will continue being part of All Nations and ministering in various ways. I am so grateful for our wonderful All Nations family that has loved and supported me on our unexpected journey.
I was recently praying about something and this phrase came so clearly to mind: “When one door closes, God opens another.” I guess I’ve had a number of closed doors in recent years, but I know God has plans and purposes for my future. My own strength is limited, but God’s grace and strength is abundant. I will walk through the open doors He has for me.
It’s so important for us to remember this in whatever we are walking through. Until the day He takes us home to heaven, He will always have “open doors” for us. He has good things in store for us always—even in the midst of a pandemic, in unusual weather events, in uncertain things all around us, in sickness, in loss, and in any difficult situation we are facing. He is our firm Rock and foundation! His hand is upon us. In whatever we face, our hard time isn’t meant to break us but to bend us ever more closely into our loving God who has good things in store for us!
If I had to figure out everything in my life on my own, I’d be so overwhelmed and lost in knowing what to do. I’m so grateful for God’s wisdom in showing me the “doors” I’m to walk through. He is a wonderful guide. My heart is full of love and thankfulness.
Lord, thank You for Your assurance of a good plan for us. Open the doors according to Your wisdom, and open our eyes to see them. Amen.
Prayers for healing and may you feel God’s peace as you rest at night Sally 🙏
Your words so speak to my heart. So often as I have read your devotionals, I have felt this way. Today’s verse is even the verse our family claimed as we began what has been a long journey full of unexpected twists and turns. I have idea at present what the next step is but but like you I am trusting He will direct my path.