Sunday, March 3, 2013

Sunday Thoughts

"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,  through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us" - Romans 5:1-5

This Scripture has been my life Scripture since 2005 when I was diagnosed with cancer. I had two surgeries that year - one to remove the cancer, and one to remove my gallbladder. I had radiation and it was a long road to recovery. Since then I have had other physical problems with my back and my knees due to arthritis and it's ravaging affects on my body. 

The last two months have been very difficult because of my knee. It's in horrible pain, despite my bi-yearly shots and it can be hard not to get depressed because I can't walk far (or at all sometimes) because of the pain. However, I think of this Scripture and, immediately, my heart is lightened because I know I have peace with God through Jesus.

My heart and mind are at peace because I know that despite my physical body letting me down, Jesus never will. I can stand on His promises that through my tribulations, He is producing character and hope!  Part of hope for me is looking at how the Lord has blessed me and not focus on my complaints. As I have made it a habit to focus on my blessings, it's easier for me to have a spirit full of joy and contentment. 

I realize that my life on this earth is short (James 4:14b) and I try to focus on the Godly things and look forward to the day when I will be given a new body in the heavenly home that Jesus has gone to prepare for me (John 14:2-3). 

What do I do in the meantime? I do what I can. If I'm unable to go places, I accept that. Thankfully, most places have the motorized carts that I can use, but if not, I have a family who gladly goes and gets things for me that I need. I study my Bible and do my Bible studies. I work on my different ministries from my home. I write on my blog to, hopefully, encourage others. I do what I can do and accept what I cannot do. I keep my eyes on my blessings and my Lord who provides them. If I'm looking up, I less likely to feel down. This is one of the reasons I do my "Counting Our Blessings on Tuesday Link Up". It is the day I sit down and write down my blessings and encourage my readers to do the same. It's good for our soul and makes us look up to the One who provides those blessings.

This is a different season in my life. Do I have days I wish I could do all the physical things I use to do? Oh, yes! However, I know the Lord has a perfect plan for me and that He loves me so I accept His plan and His will. 

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." - Jeremiah 29:11

God bless you - Julie

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