“No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” I Thes. 5:18
It is easy to be thankful for the good that happens in our lives, but to be thankful for everything – even the bad, sorrow, pain and trials? God’s answer – YES!
God is a faithful God who knows that those things in our lives that we call ‘bad’ are there to help make our faith and dependence upon Him even stronger. In so doing, it will cause us to be closer to Him – for that I am truly thankful.
Last evening my mom called to give me some “bad” news. First, my Uncle Dick on my father’s side passed away suddenly. Although his health had been failing due to a disease he has had for over twenty years. The last time I saw my uncle was almost six years ago at my mother’s 80th birthday celebration. He was in good spirits and as always had a great big smile and a hug for me. Next, she told me that she and my step-father, Chris, will be seeing his kidney doctor to discuss going on dialysis. They were told before that when he goes on dialysis he may live about 18 months. So please keep them in your prayers. This is a big decision. I know it will be hard on both of them. Pray that I will be able to travel back to Pennsylvania this coming year to visit them along with the rest of my family. It is so hard for me to be so far away from extended family. I truly need to see my family this coming year.
Now, you may ask, where is the good in this? I have many fond memories of both my uncle and step-father. Last month when my sister, Marsha, visited my uncle, she said that he told her he was ready to go ‘home’. We can only pray that he truly was. My step-father has been a bright light in our family. He has been the best thing that has happened to my mother. Most importantly,he knows and loves his Lord and savior. For this I can rejoice in knowing that though I may not see them here on earth again, I will see them again forevermore in Heaven! I am thankful to have known these two special men in my life!
7 comments:
Hi Michele, I'm new to your blog and have become a follower because I like your style. I feel kind of like I know you. Your post on giving thanks is very touching - in more ways than I am at liberty even to share. I pray you will be able to go home. Lord Bless, You
This is why I love your blog. You truly love the Lord and let that love show through every post. We know that he works for good in all situtations! Thank you for this post!
It is wonderful to find the blessings in the middle of storms and loss...and if not simply to trust that God will work all things together for good. I am sorry for your loss and pray for healing for your step-father.
God is faithful and you are a blessing for sharing your walk with others. I, too, will pray that you make it to see your family this year!
You are such a beautiful blessing, I am sorry for your loss, and praying for your stepfather. Asking God to let you be able to go back home for a visit. I love you.
It's good to find the positive in hard situations.
I like your thankful graphic. Have a blessed weekend!
Big Sigh
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