Facing the Giants
I remember a movie with that title from many years past. I can't remember what it was about but I realize that the title parallels the lives of many people in the summer of 2007.
Two of my good friends were diagnosed with cancer and have spent these summer months fighting the good fight. They has been through difficult times, through radiation and chemo, but have kept the faith.
My daughter has been suffering with severe back pain for 9 months. With 3 small children she cannot rest her back and therefore suffers each day. She continues to be a good mom and wife to her family. Her outlook is positive. She inspires me.
On June 3rd, the day of the celebration of my in-laws 60th anniversary, my father-in-law fell and broke his arm. A few weeks later my mother-in-law had to have surgery. The surgery was successful but her recovery has been slowed by several unexpected events.
Today, Becky is sick in bed with her with a virus. It has lasted for over 3 weeks. She has been very ill. We are going back to the doctor this afternoon. My 4 year old grandaughter had this same virus for 19 days and lost 5 of her total 29 pound weight.
Why do I write about these situations? First of all I would like for you to remember these loved ones in prayer. But there is also another reason......an observation that
I would like to share. In each particular illness/injury I've seen no one questioning God. No one has said "Why me?"
Why do I write about these situations? First of all I would like for you to remember these loved ones in prayer. But there is also another reason......an observation that
I would like to share. In each particular illness/injury I've seen no one questioning God. No one has said "Why me?"
I've heard no one whining, seen no shaking of the fist. No one has lost their faith.
Indeed, what I have observed is increased faith, deeper understanding of the Father, and a desire to share the Gospel. For instance, when my mother-in-law was in the hospital, everyone who came into her room heard the name of Jesus. Her Bible was constantly on her bed as open testimony to her faith. My friends with cancer continue to send messages of trust in God and love of Jesus. They know their strength comes from the Father.
When I first began my career, one of my older business mentors shared his philosophy: "Life is hard and then you die." I know that's a brutal outlook on life but there is some truth in it. As Christians we are guaranteed trials and hardships. However we face these trials, these "temporary afflictions," whether they be health, financial, family, children, career, etc., our focus should remain on Jesus.
Each hardship we face during our time on this earth provides an opportunity for
Christian growth, for strengthened character, for increased faith, for sharing of the Gospel, for enjoying a closer walk with Jesus. Indeed, faith in our loving God and trust in His Son is, I believe, our only hope for the "long hot summers" of life.
"Suddenly a terrible storm came up, with waves higher than the boat.....The
Disciples shouted, 'Lord, save us.' Then He stood up and rebuked the wind and waves, and the storm subsided and all was calm." Matt. 8:26
Charlie
posted by jkballentine @ 7:24 PM
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