Shield and Glory

But You, O Lord, are a shield around me; You are my glory and the one who holds my head high. Psalm 3:3

Your Way

Make Your way plain for me to follow.

Psalm 5:8

Rides on the Clouds

Sing loud praises to Him who rides on the clouds.

Psalm 68:3-5

LOSS AND GAIN

That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. II Corinthians 4:16

As we get older, we find that we may not be able do certain activities any longer. Gardening, which used to be a delight, now becomes painful. Being on the go from morning to night is no longer enjoyable. Playing sports which we used to enjoy is no longer possible. We have to admit it - our bodies are causing some losses in our lives….

This past month I have been talking with various people who are experiencing frustration and grief over their personal losses in regard to health:

Whether it is macular degeneration, severe angina (chest pain), fibromyalgia, severe hearing loss, being wheelchair bound… there are losses. Yet each person I spoke with who is a follower of Jesus has not given up. According to God's Word, their spirits are being renewed every day and, in the process, God is giving them what they CAN do - resulting in great gain in their lives.

One, in a wheelchair, knows the importance of praying for others and does so.

One who is legally blind has a ministry in an assisted living facility and is a blessing to those there.

Another who is also legally blind plays a violin and brings people before the throne of God in worship.

One who cannot go to a foreign land is helping fund a medical work being done there.

One who is homebound sends encouraging notes and cards to others.

One who has severe hearing loss visits the hospitalized, sharing the Word and prayer. To my amazement, he also sings in the choir.

Yes, there is much that each of us cannot do because of health or just plain living situations, yet God will give each of us that which we CAN do in obedience to Him as He renews our spirits every day.

That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. II Corinthians 4:16

Heavenly Father, please let me not be hindered by the losses in my life. Please help me turn my eyes to You and see what I CAN do by the power of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name. Amen.