Absorbing God’s Word
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
Applying God’s Word
My late wife Joanne died August 5, 2014. This weekend, I took some time to read what I wrote in my prayer journal prior to and after her death. I was not feeling very strong or courageous.
7/20/14 – Lord: I am not experiencing the Kingdom of Heaven today. I am begging Your healing mercy for Joanne, Master. Help comes to us, but usually too late. Please intercede.
7/23/14 – Lord: I know the day will come when I can look back at this season to see where seed was sown and fruit was produced. It is difficult to see right now, because my vision is blurred with doubt.
8-5-14 – Lord: Others surrounded me today and yet I felt all alone. It was as if a huge vacuum sucked all the life from me.
8/22/14 – Lord: I can’t hear anything right now. I don’t want to. The slightest noise disturbs me. It’s as if the enemy enjoys aggravating me with sadness and loneliness. It is difficult to spend time with You, but I’m not giving up.
Recovery from my deep sadness begins in December of 2014 and write:
12/22/14 – Lord: Things are still a bit flat for me, but all the more reason to find joy in the fact that you are with me no matter what. Thank You.
I still miss and think about Joanne, but have found strength and courage in knowing that God never leaves or forsakes us. You are not forgotten, Joanne.
Accounting of God’s Word
Have I given up? Have I thrown in the towel? Do I believe God is with me in both the good and the bad times?