Crisis = God's Glory

I can't believe this week has flown by already!  I haven't written anything in over a week ... please forgive me!  I love that my ReEngage leaders are always challenging us to share not only WHAT we are learning, but also HOW we are using the material in our everyday life.  I realized that I did a poor job this week surrendering my illness to the Lord and found myself in a little pity party this week. 

For those of you that do not know me, I have a condition called IGA deficiency.  Basically, my body doesn't produce enough of the IGA antibody, which is found in the mucous membrane of the body (this includes the ear, throat, sinus system, GI system, etc.).  Therefore, my body is unable to fight off disease it comes into contact with, such as the common cold, viruses, etc.  Nothing life threatening, but certainly a daily inconvenience.  I have to take antibiotics, along with several other medications on a daily basis, and most of the time, I feel run-down because my body is constantly fighting off illness.  I was diagnosed 2 1/2 years ago, but the doctors believe I have had it my whole life and will suffer with it for the rest of my life.  I don't want to continue my little pity party, but am trying to give you a little background. 

This past Sunday, our pastor, Todd Wagner, gave a sermon finishing up on John 4 with the healing of the official's son. 

Wagner talked about how the Lord can perform miracles, but this happens on very rare occasions.  Otherwise, they would be called regulars!  He spoke about how Jesus did not perform miracles to convert his followers, but instead to authenticate who he was--the Son of God. 

There is so much from this sermon that I could share, but here is the main point that spoke to me.  Wagner said that, "God introduces crisis in your life for one of two primary reasons:

1. You are far from Him and He wants to draw you close.
2. You are near to Him and He wants to use you."

Either way,  "be assured it is ALWAYS for His glory and your good."

TRUST HIM. 

For me, this convicted me about how I have faced my illness.  I have prayed and wished that I could be healed too.  How nice would it be to not have to think about filling all these medications and worry about scheduling all of these doctors appointments.  To be able to get up and exercise like I used to.  To not have to worry about being able to take care of my future children.  To not feel so fatigued everyday.  To wake up and feel 100%.  What would that be like? 

But that is not the path that the Lord chose for me, and I am learning to accept his plan for me.  Of course, it isn't always easy.  But think about how much I have to be thankful for!  I don't have a terminal illness!  I don't have cancer!  I can walk!  I am able to take care of myself!  I am able to have children!  There are so many horrible illnesses in this world and it could be so much worse!  I am thankful for each day that I can wake up and serve Him. 

Now, I have a new prayer.  I want to use this illness for the Lord's glory.  I want to remain faithful to Him and continue to serve Him even when I do not feel well.  I know that the Lord is good has a purpose for my life even though it is filled with some pain on this earth.    

Consider it pure joy, my brothers,

whenever you face trials of many kinds,

because you know that the testing of your faith

develops perseverence. 

Perseverence must finish its work so that

you may be mature and complete,

not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4

I recommend checking out Todd's sermon from this past Sunday (4/3/11) to get even more out of this sermon.  Here is the link to the Watermark media site: 

http://www.watermarkradio.com/