Today's VerseIn everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
~1 Thessalonians 5:18
Thoughts on today's verse...
Now that's a tall order! In everything... give thanks? What about marital difficulties or divorce? What about illness and cancer? What about the death of a child? What about infertility? What about an innocent person being sentenced to prison? What about a guilty person not having to serve prison time? So many injustices... and yet the Word tells us to give thanks? Wouldn't God know we were just giving Him 'lip service' and not meaning it from the depths of our soul?
I may not be able to give thanks for some of the above issues if they haven't affected me personally, but I can cultivate an attitude of thankfulness for God's work in me as I try to glean the lessons of loss. And some of those trials I've experienced have made me the person I am today.
Today is the two month point since I had the 'heart attack'. It was quite the wake up call. Merely two weeks before it, I had asked our Women's Group to pray for me, as I wanted to quit smoking. I told them I just wanted the Lord to remove it. Little did I know His plans to remove it! And you need to understand, smoking was my 'best friend' for a number of years. It was always there when everyone else walked out or away, comforted me when no one else would or could. But my 'friend' demanded a great price - financially, physically, emotionally and socially.
Well, it's been two months now and my 'friend' and I have parted ways. There are times I miss my 'friend' and desire to have that relationship reinstated... but all I have to do is recall the first two weeks without cigarettes and I don't want to go through that again! I praise and thank God that He brought me face-to-face with my addiction. I am healthier now, walking two - three miles intentionally six days a week. I can breathe without effort. And now, I can even ride a bike around the block and run for about 500 feet! What a vast improvement. I'm still waiting to be 'released' by my cardiologist so I can return to work. I miss my work and the service I provide in my specialized library.
My prayer...
Lord God, there are so many things in this world that we believe are injustices. Help me to not get caught up in them and be brought down by them. When I see these things in a person's life, I can bring it before Your throne of grace. But as for the trials I've experienced... thank you! They are being used to mold me and shape me into a new and improved version that will hopefully reflect You! ~Amen!
Yours, because we're His,
Tamara
P.S. There was no posting over the weekend. It was quite busy with both grandbabies here. A two year old and three year old take a lot more energy than I remember. We usually have only one, so I'm thinking of just posting a "weekend edition". Hugz to you all!
Just glad you are back today! There will never be any penalties for not posting! Of course there may be lots of prayers if no reason is given and some days go by.
ReplyDeleteWhen trials or problems beseige us, I feel that our thanks are not expected for the problem itself but for the ability to turn it over to Him and to use the wisdom and blessings we do have to resolve it.
It seems God directs us to be a thankful people knowing it will make us better and more compassionate and loving people. For example the good that came out of losing my beloved Husband Mario is that I can be ever so compassionate with others in similar situations and so I minister in the Consolation group at our church here.
As for the many medical procedures I have endured, I can be empathetic with others and maybe even offer suggestions when asked. This is what I feel we are called to do in time of distress and trauma, just as you have so beautifully shared here, Tamara.
blessings and hugs,
marcy
Congrats! I know how hard it is to quit.
ReplyDeleteI saw on ExpoTV that they are looking for women like you to share their success stories and tips on how they kicked the habit. We would love for you to contribute your story on video and in return you’ll receive a $25 Amazon.com gift card.
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What a nice post Tamara and I feel happiness for you! Quitting smoking is very difficult, I've done it three times.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on getting healthier and keeping to a good routine! And congratulations for kicking your 'friend' to the curb!
ReplyDeleteI guess that's one thing you can be thankful for in having your heart attack! It answered a prayer!
I'll be keeping you in my prayers!
And I think watching the grandbabies was a workout itself!
Nice post.
Very nice prayer.
All the best,
Eileen
Tamara...I am so happy that you are healthier and are keeping yourself energized (grandbabies!!)....walking, riding your bike...and even running. I do hope that you get a good report from your cardiologist. You are a sweet inspiration to me...and many others. Take care of you, and know that I love you as your Sister in Christ.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Jackie
So glad I haven't missed a post, have been having a bit of a health problem myself. So glad you have managed to quit smoking. Tamara I think God has brought you into our lives for a reason, I know that to me your post and your prayers are a real inspiration...Thank You
ReplyDeleteTake care, .......:-) Hugs