My wife's health had been getting better and better. Life seemed normal. Last colonoscopy (4 years ago), the doctor said there was no evidence for IBD (ulcerative colitis or Crohns). Unfortunately, new symptoms have developed. Symptoms very compatible with IBD. She got initiated on Asacol, hasn't made much progress. She has a colonoscopy planned soon.
Did this shake our faith? Yes and no. It definitely put it to the test. The last time the IBD symptoms were there, they were profound and she was hospitalized for 2 weeks. Unable to eat. On TPN. Getting weaker every day. So, this return of symptoms has definitely the potential to provoke fear. Fear of the unknown.
We are in a better place spiritually. Stronger faith. God wasn't surprised by her symptoms, he saw them coming. He already had a plan in place to take care of my wife. Just as he took care of her and helped us get through the health difficulties last time. He accomplished much good out of that painful ordeal. I pray that he sustains, provides, heals, and words good this time around as well.
I was reading "The Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson. He was talking about when he prays and fasts. During the current health struggles, I had been feeling quite anxious. I had been preaching to myself all the things I say I believe in an effort to have my feelings to fall in line with my beliefs. When I spent one day fasting, I found myself praying very frequently. Several times an hour. I found myself feeling more peaceful and faith filled. It was like my spirit was strengthened. It was really a great day, even in the midst of trial.
This was really the first time that I felt a personal change within myself while fasting. It won't be the last time I fast. It is a mystery to me... But I don't think God intends us to fully understand everything.
Ezra 8:23 - So we fasted and implored our God for this, and he listened to our entreaty.
David
P.S. I am also reminded of what Vanessa and I felt so convicted about... that God had spoken to us and promised us that Vanessa was to be completely healed. That means, not just controlled IBD... but NO IBD. I believe he can heal this. When, I do not exactly know. He has already brought so much healing to her body with regards to the abdominal migraines. I praise his name for that! But I will continue to stand on his promise to us. Pray for it expectantly.
Did this shake our faith? Yes and no. It definitely put it to the test. The last time the IBD symptoms were there, they were profound and she was hospitalized for 2 weeks. Unable to eat. On TPN. Getting weaker every day. So, this return of symptoms has definitely the potential to provoke fear. Fear of the unknown.
We are in a better place spiritually. Stronger faith. God wasn't surprised by her symptoms, he saw them coming. He already had a plan in place to take care of my wife. Just as he took care of her and helped us get through the health difficulties last time. He accomplished much good out of that painful ordeal. I pray that he sustains, provides, heals, and words good this time around as well.
I was reading "The Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson. He was talking about when he prays and fasts. During the current health struggles, I had been feeling quite anxious. I had been preaching to myself all the things I say I believe in an effort to have my feelings to fall in line with my beliefs. When I spent one day fasting, I found myself praying very frequently. Several times an hour. I found myself feeling more peaceful and faith filled. It was like my spirit was strengthened. It was really a great day, even in the midst of trial.
This was really the first time that I felt a personal change within myself while fasting. It won't be the last time I fast. It is a mystery to me... But I don't think God intends us to fully understand everything.
Ezra 8:23 - So we fasted and implored our God for this, and he listened to our entreaty.
David
P.S. I am also reminded of what Vanessa and I felt so convicted about... that God had spoken to us and promised us that Vanessa was to be completely healed. That means, not just controlled IBD... but NO IBD. I believe he can heal this. When, I do not exactly know. He has already brought so much healing to her body with regards to the abdominal migraines. I praise his name for that! But I will continue to stand on his promise to us. Pray for it expectantly.
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