Sunday Thoughts

I've been thinking about how things have been for me over the past few years - especially the past 2 1/2 years. I can't explain how really down I was when I was going through all my surgeries, hospitalization, and infections. It's a lonely time that I'm sure many of you can relate to that have been through a long term illness or pain of any kind. It was an isolating time of just me and Jesus.

I didn't understand what was happening to me a lot of the time. I had to put myself in the hands of doctors and nurses - some of whom were kind and knowledgeable and some who weren't. It was definitely a time of trusting in God to get me to the right person or place and He always did. Yes, there were bumps along the way, but He sent such loving, caring medical people that really were His hands and feet.

I'm seeing the fruits of that time now. I have grown so much in my faith and my reliance on Him. You hear that all the time when you're going through something but I'm here to tell you, it's true. When you're slowly climbing back on that mountain top and you look down at your past turbulence, you see where God was working and how much strength you have as you're getting back up to the top again. I can see all the things working together, for my good, just as God promised in Romans 8:28.

I'm slowly getting back up that mountain top to look out over my valley. I have been seeing progress in my climb - little things like being able to go to the movies or going to the store on my own. I couldn't have done that at all a year ago. These are things I took for granted before but I don't now. To be housebound for a year - with very little contact from anyone - makes you evaluate what really means a lot to you and who means a lot to you. It's the little things that end up being the biggest blessings for me.

Some people say God is a crutch for weak people. Yep - that's me! I am a weak person who needs the love and strength from Jesus. Life is way too difficult to navigate alone. Knowing that the supreme God - who created me - is in control gives me a peace that no one else can give me. Other people may or may not be there for you in the hard times but God always is. That's exactly what I'm seeing with more clarity as I climb up out of the pit, into the valley, and back onto the mountain top for a new season with my God.

Have a very blessed Sunday - Julie