Category: Perseverance

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Pray and Push Through

I have noticed a theme in my life lately: God is calling me to pray and push through. Keep on keeping on.

Life is certainly crazy at times, but despite the ups and downs, I need to persevere. I may not always see what God is doing, but I need to hang on tight to Jesus!

Change can be a two-edged sword. Sometimes, it seems change will never come. Bored, I can’t stand to bide my time. Then, when abrupt change does happen, I want things to return to the way they were! (I can be so fickle!)

Similarly, perhaps you find yourself in an impossible situation that looks like it will never change. Perhaps what you were hoping for hasn’t come to pass. Or, perhaps life just looks so different… certainly not what you expected.

Maybe it feels like only an ‘act of God’ will bring what you desire! It’s easy to feel down when it seems He is not listening to your cries for help. But, there is hope. Don’t give up!

The good news is that God always hears us and answers each of our prayers. He just may not answer how we want. God answers our prayers in three ways: Yes, No, or Not Yet.

Instead of trying to figure out how to make what we want happen, we can choose to trust God and His timing. God won’t give us anything less than His best.

He already gave us Jesus, His greatest gift—everything else is just gravy!

It’s a relief knowing God hears me and has good plans for me.

Even if God says No—or makes me wait it out—I am grateful I don’t have to make the final decision. I just have to be faithful and do what He has asked me to do.

I can praise God while I am waiting (and still hoping) but also know if it is ultimately a No, then He has something even better in store. Waiting on God is a win-win!

What joy! I can’t go wrong!

“God always gives His best to those who leave the choice with him.” –Jim Elliot

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Father God, You are so good! Thanks for always giving me Your best. Help me trust You more as I wait. By Your grace and power, I won’t give up! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you holding onto a dream that seems beyond you? Are you tempted to walk away from it? Could it be that God wants you to press in closer to Him?

Tasks: Read The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson. Listen to “The Way” by Pat Barrett.

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom

Counting Every Blessing

It’s that time of year again! Lydia started school this week! She has been so excited for about a month. She could hardly sleep on Monday night… Tuesday, she started a new school and was happy to see her friends.

I’m proud of Lydia for all the ways she’s already grown. She’s been challenging herself to try new things and be more independent. Her dad, my late-husband, Dave, would also be so very proud.

I have been purposely relying on the Lord as we start this new season. As such, I haven’t really thought much about the bittersweet nature of our circumstances. Still, this week is one of those times when it is apparent: Dave’s not here.

Lydia’s teacher seems really sweet. She’s a first-year teacher and full of excitement, too. When we met her, I didn’t want to burst her bubble… so, I simply wrote her a short explanation about Dave on Lydia’s back to school papers.

Yesterday, after Lydia got off the bus, we went home and talked about her day over a scoop of ice cream. She had a fun day, of course, and I know she will have a great year.

To my surprise, Lydia said she was glad I didn’t mention Dave to her teacher in person. Specifically, she said, “I’m glad you didn’t cry like you did last year.”  (and the year before…) I might have embarrassed her previously!

Truthfully, I’m happy Lydia seems unaffected, but it makes me slightly sad. I have tried to ensure that she knows who Dave was and that he loved her very much. I want her to be able to talk about him whenever she feels the need. I want her to be okay with it.

But instead of feeling sorry for myself (and Lydia), I decided to count my blessings!

First, I’m grateful for Lydia! She’s always a bright spot and has kept me moving forward. I love to coach her and watch her grow. I don’t know where I’d be without her!

I’m grateful Lydia and I can have honest, heartfelt conversations about tough topics. We have had many ups and downs, which has made it interesting!

I’m also grateful Lydia is so much like Dave. She doesn’t overthink things like I do! She is pragmatic like Dave and has a good perspective. Though, she is like me in lots of other ways.

I’m grateful for how well Dave set us up. Because of his planning and God’s provision, Lydia and I are in a good position. I have no reason to complain!

I’m extremely grateful that each year, we’ve reached new levels of healing. We think of and talk about Dave often, but we are still living a full life in spite of our loss(es).

I’m grateful for so many things, actually. But most of all, I’m grateful that God’s still holding us together. He has brought us this far and we are doing well.

I can trust Him with confidence. He’s got this!

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Heavenly Father, You are so good! Thanks for taking such great care of us. Open our eyes to each of Your blessings and help us trust You more in this new season. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you find yourself in a new season of life? Have you been expecting it or did it take you by surprise?

Tasks: Listen to this song, “Counting Every Blessing,” by Rend Collective! It’s so good!

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

A Smoother Ride

Last week, Lydia and I took a short bike ride to a park in our neighborhood. Most of the time, I let her ride before me because I am faster and don’t want to leave her too far behind. Lydia set the pace, but I directed her and chose which path to take.

As we rode along, it was so peaceful. It was just me and Lydia in the evening heat. We chatted about our day and fun things we plan to do before school starts again next week. At times, we would stop and wait for cars to pass before continuing on our way.

During our ride, I decided to take Lydia to a smaller more secluded park than the one we originally planned. She hadn’t been to this park before and didn’t know the way.

So, I told her, “I’m going to come up on your left and when we get to the intersection, you follow me. We’re going to cross these two streets instead of staying on this path.”

As we got to the other side of the intersection, I stayed back in the street and let Lydia go ahead of me. She asked why I chose to do that, and I told her I was blocking her from any traffic that might come up.

I had noticed a car waiting for us at the stop sign and wanted to protect her. At least the driver could see me in the middle of the road…

Lydia did so well as she listened and followed. Our bike ride was a compelling picture of how God leads us and directs us through life. Everything goes so much better when we just trust Jesus!

That doesn’t mean it’s always an easy ride. For example, as we crossed through the intersection, Lydia had to speed up and go uphill. She had to work a bit to get where she needed to go.

Life is indeed challenging. Circumstances may turn out differently than expected and there will be some bumps along the way. But at the end of the day, it’s just me and Jesus.

He is the one constant in my life! Ultimately, He is in control. Did I stay close to Him? Did I wait for Him? Did I listen and obey Him?

Thankfully, with Jesus, all things are possible. He protects us, provides for us, and directs our path. When we follow Him, it’s a much smoother ride!

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God, thanks for all the ways You love us. Thanks for guiding us as we follow You. Help us listen and trust You more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you have anything left on your summer bucket list?

Task: Listen to “Control (Somehow You Want Me)” by Tenth Avenue North

Posted on in Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Worship

It’s Good to be Alive!

This past Sunday, I celebrated my birthday! I talked with my family and heard from several other people throughout the day. It was a fun day, which included church, lunch with friends, and chatting with neighbors. I also have a few other special things planned in the next couple weeks. (I like to take full advantage of birthday month!)

Since Lydia was sick on Saturday, I wasn’t sure we’d make it to church on Sunday. Thankfully, she woke up healthy and cheerful, so off to church we went.

For me, birthdays are always a time to reflect on the previous year and respond to new opportunities before me. Worshipping God with other believers on my birthday was extra special. Yet, as I took it all in, I understood that it wasn’t about me. Instead, celebrating God was my focus… I wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for Him!

During worship, I noticed that several songs mentioned the word “alive.” As we sang, I thought about how God knew the very moment I would be born. He planned each of my days before one of them came to pass. He formed every detail of my body according to the good work He has for me to do (Psalm 139, Ephesians 2:10).

And as I pondered being alive and living for God, something else occurred to me.
No matter who else has been or is currently in my life, it really has always been just me and God. He is the one constant person in my life. (Though my family is a close second!) He is faithful and reliable. He never leaves me nor lets me down.

There is comfort in God’s constancy. I can trust Him, knowing He is for me and not against me. He always has my good in mind (even if I don’t understand it). Regardless of how I feel or think, He always gives me His best!

Often, circumstances look differently than we expected. Life has a way of feeling upside-down about half the time! But, just because life may not make sense, that doesn’t mean God isn’t present working it all out behind the scenes.

Many times, I need a little personal pep-talk to remind me of all that is good in my life. It’s easy to lose hope if I just focus on what I see in front of me. On the other hand, if I keep my eyes on Jesus—and Who He is—I will have peace and joy in the midst of trials. He is above all the chaos, yet is right with me in it.

It is useless to put my hope or trust in anything or anyone other than Jesus! He sees the end from the beginning. He knows the way because He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Jesus is the first and the last and surrounds me like a shield. I am covered in grace!

God’s plans and promises for me will surely come to pass—He always keeps His word. Jesus will never stop loving me. His love never fails!

Life is short, but it is a gift. With Jesus, nothing is impossible. I can expect good things. Praise God, it’s good to be alive!!

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God, thanks for bringing me through another year! Thanks for all You have done for me and with me and through me. I’m excited for all You have in store for me this coming year! All glory to You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Question: Can you see God’s faithfulness over the last few months or year?

Task: Listen to this song: “Never Been A Moment” by Micah Tyler. Praise God!

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Book Review: Joni & Ken

This summer, I have been reading several memoirs, many of them related to faith or medical issues. Recently a friend loaned me a book called Joni & Ken: An Untold Love Story and I have finally gotten around to reading it.

I have a large ‘to be read’ pile, but I could barely put this book down!

I was somewhat familiar with Joni Eareckson Tada’s story, of how she broke her neck in a diving accident as a teen and has been a quadriplegic ever since. However, I had no idea all that she has been through or how she and her husband make their marriage work.

The book highlights each of their struggles—and how they haven’t given up. Joni has been dealing with intense chronic pain for many years even without true feeling in her limbs. Pain medication barely takes the edge off. She also has had broken bones, pressure ulcers, severe pneumonia, and even breast cancer.

Ken, as a caregiver, has his own challenges that require perseverance. He has also had to take a backseat to his wife’s fame. As a result, Joni and Ken’s marriage has been tested and refined… Yet, these experiences have grown their relationship. Furthermore, they have been able to advocate for other people with disabilities.

I really appreciate—and recommend—this book because it was very real with no pretense. Life is not peachy all the time. Yet, this story proves that suffering can serve to draw us closer to Jesus. Indeed, God has been faithful to see the Tadas through.

Each of us has our own troubles that can define us or refine us. We have the choice whether to give up or give it to God. We can choose to stop in our tracks when life gets tough, or we can choose to move forward even when we don’t see where we are going.

We can trust Jesus because He never lets us down!

Each time I read or hear a story documenting God’s grace, goodness, and faithfulness in the midst of uncertainty, it makes me trust Him more for the outcome of my story too. Whatever you are facing today, know God loves You—He is for you and with you!

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God, thanks for writing our stories with grace and love. You are so kind and good—the best is yet to come! Help us trust You with the details. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you familiar with Joni Eareckson Tada? Watch this video! What good books have you read lately?

Tasks: Consider how you can be a blessing to someone with ongoing needs—medical or otherwise. Even just a little encouragement can be a good start!

Posted on in Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Thankful for Answered Prayers

Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve been watching the international news—not for all the usual drama—but in regards to the Thai soccer team that was trapped in a cave two miles underground.

Like many people, I prayed for God to hold back the rain, for wisdom on how to save the boys, and for the rescue efforts to succeed. Yesterday, I saw an article which quoted the Thai Navy Seals site, “We are not sure if this is a miracle, or science, or what” that saved the boys.

My first thought after reading that quote was, why not both? God certainly answered my prayers and those of people all around the world…and science was one factor (not to mention the cooperation and bravery of each person on the rescue mission).

I’m not sure I want to go spelunking anytime soon… the total darkness alone would be horrifying. Having no sense of time would be disorienting. Also, the separation from loved ones, decreasing oxygen, and lack of food would be awful to endure

I’m glad a doctor and some Thai Navy Seals stayed in the cave for eight days with the team tending to them and preparing them for the journey out. What a picture of God’s love!

Jesus stays with us, teaches us, tends to our needs, provides for us, and leads us out of the darkness into His glorious light. What a Savior and Friend!

Yesterday, while I was praising God for answering our collective prayers and for rescuing the team and coach, I heard something on the radio that jived with what I was thinking.

Basically, the host mentioned how God works through prayer—and so (in some ways) we are a product of other people praying for us. How cool! The host went on to remind the listeners that each of us is called to pray for others, even if we never meet them in person.

I really enjoy learning about different cultures, which includes different religions. Of note, some of the Thai people involved may know Jesus personally, but many more likely do not. Still, Jesus died to save the Thai people just as much as He died for me.

I’m thankful God’s love extends to each of us , even when we is unaware of Him. He is mighty to save and draws us close with His never-ending grace!

A new friend came to my house to visit this week. We just happened to talk about intercessory prayer. She said that if she has a specific need, she starts praying for others with that same need. As she sees God working in other people’s lives, she notices more blessings and answered prayer in her life, too.

I’m so thankful that we can access God directly through prayer in Jesus’ Name. When we pray using the words of Scripture, we agree with God and pray according to His will.

Our prayers are always heard—even if they are answered differently than we’d like.

Whether through prayer, or science, or BOTH, God graciously saved that soccer team. But the Victory is extra special because people all over the world were united in heart and mind as they prayed. Praise God!

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God, thanks for saving the Thai soccer team and coach. Please bless them and bring them to full recovery. Thank You for rescuing us and leading us to Victory, too! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Did you follow this international news story? What answers to prayer have you seen lately?

Tasks: As you bring your own personal requests to the Lord, start praying for others with the same need. That’s a good place to start! 🙂

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Book Review: And Still She Laughs

I recently finished a book called, And Still She Laughs: Defiant Joy in the Depths of Suffering, by Kate Merrick. This book took me by surprise. (No affiliate links!) It is somewhat like a memoir in that the author explains some details of her story. Her 8 year old daughter died of cancer and she shares glimpses into that ordeal.

Even though this tragedy happened years before, the book was more ‘raw’ than I expected. Still, I enjoyed it! While anyone could benefit from this book, I’d highly recommend the book for someone in the early years of grief and loss.

I really appreciated how the author compared her story to three ladies in the Bible. Ms. Merrick and King David’s mistress, Bathsheba, both lost a child under very different circumstances. Yet, God used the ups and downs, shame and embarrassment of Bathsheba’s story to comfort the author. Ms. Merrick wrote how Bathsheba walked with her through this chapter of her life.

Next, Abraham’s wife, Sarah, longed for a child so much that she took matters into her own hands. This created so… many… other… problems. I have read this story in Genesis 18:9-15 countless times—but somehow I must’ve misinterpreted Sarah’s laugh. I always thought she laughed because she was nervous… Nope!

9 “Where is your wife Sarah?” they asked him. “There, in the tent,” he said.

10 Then one of them said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son.”

Now Sarah was listening at the entrance to the tent, which was behind him. 11 Abraham and Sarah were already very old, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, “After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?”

13 Then the Lord said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Will I really have a child, now that I am old?’ 14 Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son.”

15 Sarah was afraid, so she lied and said, “I did not laugh.” But he said, “Yes, you did laugh.”

Perhaps the biggest revelation to me in this entire book was that Sarah laughed out of bitterness. I imagine an eye roll with attitude, like, “Ha! Yeah right! I’ll believe that when it happens…” After years of waiting, she had let herself grow bitter with disappointment and unfulfilled dreams. Not only was I surprised by this, I was somewhat convicted too.

Because I realized… sometimes I act similarly. Whenever God shows me something good He wants to give me, but then makes me wait it out, I tend to doubt His goodness and plan. If I’m not careful, I can let that grow into bitterness and reject all the good God wants to do in me, for me, with me, and through me.

God is so gracious to heal and forgive! Sarah trusted God and then named her promised son, Isaac, which means laughter. What joy she must have felt after all those years! After this chapter, I decided to keep an open mind and not automatically laugh away things I don’t understand.

The last Biblical heroine to be discussed was Mary, the mother of Jesus. Again, this was rather enlightening because often, I read her story focused on the action surrounding Jesus…not on how she must’ve felt about all that happened.

It is interesting to compare and contrast these three ladies in Jesus’ genealogy. Where Bathsheba was comforting, and Sarah was convicting, Mary was challenging. Mary just had so much faith in what Jesus could/can do! Despite watching her beloved Son suffer and die on the Cross, she found joy in God’s promises to her.

The books ties up with a glimpse at the Proverbs 31 woman. Proverbs 31:25 says, “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” Regardless of our circumstances, we can choose joy—and even laugh—because of all Jesus has done (and continues to do) for us.

It’s safe to say, I gleaned more from this book than I thought I would.

There is freedom knowing Jesus carries us. We don’t have to solve all our problems; we just have to come to Him. We can laugh (or cry) in His presence and He will heal our hearts.

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God, thanks for the healing You bring. You are so good! Thanks for giving us joy and the ability to laugh despite our circumstances. May we stay in Your presence and soak up Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you read any good books lately? Do you have a recommendation for me?!

Tasks: If you are grieving or know someone who is, consider this book. <3

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

Keep On Kayaking

On Sunday afternoon, Lydia and I celebrated a fun accomplishment! We went kayaking! For me, it was a dream come true…something I have wanted to do with Lydia for quite some time.

Kayaking was a personal victory on several fronts. First, I simply managed to do it! Paddling on a river is one of my favorite things to do—I love the challenge and find it relaxing. Yet, I haven’t gone out in years.

It can be difficult to try new things or go to new places on my own, let alone with a child! Sometimes, I don’t give myself enough credit… In fact, I had previously talked myself out of canoeing or kayaking this month because it seemed overwhelming to coordinate our schedule with the rental facility hours, weather, the water conditions, etc.

Second, I wasn’t sure Lydia would be able to paddle much, and I didn’t know if I could handle everything on my own. Between paddling and safety, there’s a lot to consider! Besides, even if she could paddle, I thought for sure, she’d want to quit after two minutes…and/or start complaining.

Earlier in the week, I decided to scout out the area beforehand so we knew where to go. It was easy to find and there were several vessels available…check. I picked up a ton of brochures to read…check. Lydia seemed to enjoy it…check.

On Sunday, the forecasted rain looked like it might miss us. Then, I showed Lydia a couple YouTube videos on paddling so she knew the basics. (It was better than nothing, haha!!) And, with a leap of faith, we headed over to Moorhead, MN.

I had very low expectations and mostly just wanted to get Lydia some experience. At the dock, I decided to ask a few questions and let the workers give me feedback on if it was a good idea. If they advised against it, I told Lydia we’d go geocaching along the shore instead.

After explaining my concerns, the workers assured me that we could do it! The water was high and the current was fast due to recent rainfall, so they suggested a kayak instead of a canoe because it is lower to the water level. It would be more manageable in the fast water.

So, we put on our life jackets and got a quick lesson in paddling. Then, I helped carry the tandem kayak to the dock and we were off! We paddled up stream and then, later, coasted back. There were other families and individuals doing the same.

I’m happy to report, Lydia totally proved me wrong! She did so well, and went far beyond my expectations. She never complained, she paddled like a machine, AND she asked if we could go again soon. 🙂

We made it under two bridges and I bet next time we can go to the third! We both had a lot of fun and were proud of ourselves. It was very fulfilling. Win-win!

I’m glad I didn’t let fear stop me from taking Lydia on the water by myself. I now feel confident that we can have many more adventures together! We will definitely keep on kayaking… Thank You, Jesus!

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God, thanks for giving me courage and for protecting me! You fill my life with good things. Please direct my path and help me keep moving forward in faith. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What is on your summer bucket list? Is anything holding you back from accomplishing those adventures?

Tasks: Don’t let fear dictate your steps—choose to move forward in faith! Quite likely, you’ll find some blessings and surprises along the way!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom

The Difference Between Moving On and Moving Forward

Yesterday, we reached a big milestone in our grace journey. It was five years since Dave died…and five years of walking it out step-by-step.

Each moment has been drenched in God’s grace.

Five years ago, it felt like this milestone would never arrive. I had no plan and no clue what to do. (And for a planner, that’s kind of a big deal!) Suffice it to say, we faced a lot of challenges.

Yesterday felt noteworthy—yet at the same time felt just like any other day. The normalcy of it made me even more aware of God’s thorough healing. While it hasn’t been easy, I’m grateful.

I want Lydia to associate this day with goodness—instead of pain or sorrow—and identify the overwhelming Victory we have in Christ. So, each year I’ve given her a small token to mark the occasion.

Needless to say, Lydia was excited about yesterday. She woke up with such anticipation, “This is going to be a great day!” I loved her cheerful attitude; she loved the little cat ring I gave her before school.

So yesterday, we celebrated Dave’s memory and that he is safe and secure… By God’s grace, we are still standing strong! Thank You, Jesus. Every Victory is found in You!

Often, we pray for God to do big things, and then want to tell Him how to accomplish all our ideas. But His ways are bigger than our ways. Our small minds cannot comprehend all the good He has in store for us.

 As He promised in Romans 8:28, God has used this horrible tragedy for my good and His glory…so I can, in turn, help others and bless them. My goal is to then point people back to see God’s goodness in their own lives.

Honestly, I don’t need to understand the “why factor.” I am just grateful that God knows exactly what we need. His grace covers me and I can move forward in Victory.

Victory starts with Jesus at the Cross and His Resurrection but then carries over into everyday life. Each day brings opportunities to live victoriously. We have the choice to stand firm or move forward.

For me, standing firm means NOT running away from all the pain and sorrow—which is the exact opposite of what I sometimes want to do. Standing firm means not giving up even an inch of that holy ground. Moving forward is taking that first step and then another and another.

Some Victories are large and some are small. Some come easy and some are a struggle. Either way, slow and steady progress is still good.

It is strange to think that many of my friends now, never even met Dave… These days, I don’t share as much about him because sometimes the timing or mood isn’t right. Still, I appreciate anyone who will listen when I really need it. Thank you!!

After a big life change, people often get a ‘grace period’ to adjust. Though, after five years, perhaps some people would say it is time to move on. (I get it. Life goes on.) But, there is a difference between moving on and moving forward. And really, you can’t do both!

Moving on implies that we need to cut our losses and forget the past. Just get over it already! Moving on feels like an either/or option. You can either stay stuck or leave everything behind.

Moving forward, on the other hand, acknowledges the pain, grief, loss, or other wound but chooses to see beyond it. It is inclusive of one’s past and current experiences but allows for new options in the future. Moving forward may seem agonizing at first but is worth it in the long-run.

Moving on is the gut reaction—handling it on your own. Keep your head down and work hard to push through the pain. The problem is that approach is not sustainable. It uses up our energy so we have nothing left to give.

Moving forward, then, is the grace response—letting Jesus do the heavy work. Keep your head high—focused on Jesus—honor the past, and be brave. Surprisingly, we find more energy and power because the Holy Spirit covers our weakness and renews us with His strength.

Each person’s journey looks different. There is no one-size-fits-all ‘right’ way to deal with life’s pain and trials. But, for me, the greater Victory is found in moving forward with Jesus. He is faithful and can do far more than we could ever ask or imagine!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all Your grace and goodness toward us. All glory and praise to You, Lord. Help us continue to move forward in Victory as you bring freedom and wholeness. In Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen.

Questions: What are your thoughts on standing firm, moving forward, and moving on? Do you feel like you are living in Victory—or still struggling?

Tasks: Praising God is one way to keep moving forward and refocus on Jesus. Listen to this song: “Surrender” (Fight My Battles) by Michael W. Smith

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Book Review: When God Doesn’t Fix It

Recently, I finished another book that I’d highly recommend to anyone dealing with grief or trying to understand how life has turned out so differently than planned…

The book is called, When God Doesn’t Fix It, by Laura Story. Like the other memoir I reviewed, this book also was published two years ago, but I wasn’t ready for it then. I’m so grateful for God’s healing grace—and for how far He has brought me!

The author is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and worship leader. But twelve years ago, her husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent a ‘successful’ surgery. However, he now has several deficits including short-term memory problems and loss of peripheral vision. Parts of the story are very funny and other parts are very poignant.

The book has many parallels to my own story, yet both are still unique. Of course, I can relate to the ups and downs of dealing with health issues. When he was sick with cancer, my late-husband, Dave required more care as time went on, but didn’t improve. Life never returned to the way it was.

Ms. Story dispels several myths we believe about God and shows the Truth using Scripture. The Lord always keeps His promises (See 2 Corinthians 1:20)! But often, we place expectations on Him that He never agreed to do for us. Then, we tend to feel betrayed and blame God when He doesn’t come through like we think He should.

Take, for example, the subject of healing. Indeed, Jesus certainly did heal many people. However, as great as that was, physical healing was not His main goal. We see in Luke 19:10 that Jesus came “to seek and to save that which was lost.” Thus, He had a greater purpose in mind than just physical healing…

(The book gives more details and more examples, but I can trust the Lord for greater things in my life too!)

I appreciated that Ms. Story wrote honestly about her faith journey, one that has more questions than answers. She and her family have repeatedly prayed for healing but have had to learn to move forward without the resolution they desire. Her husband’s condition has not improved, but they have chosen to grow through the experience.

Ms. Story didn’t pretend to understand the “why factor.” Instead of demanding God to fix her family’s problems, they are embracing the present journey. They are choosing to praise Jesus and live for Him, becoming better, not bitter.

This book reminds me that we don’t have to have all the answers to walk by faith.

God is SO good!!

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Father God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for graciously guiding me and providing for me. Help me to praise You even when I don’t understand my circumstances. Help me to walk in faith! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are your God-sized questions that seem to have no answers? How can you trust Jesus and move forward?

Tasks: Listen to the song, “Blessings,” by Laura Story. If you read her book, When God Doesn’t Fix It, let me know what you think!