Times of Testing

During times of trial and testing, it is normal to feel like life is "out of control". Other emotions race through the mind as you wonder: "Why is this happening to me?" "What is going to happen to me and my family?" "Will I make it through this, and if so, at what cost?" Your emotions might turn to anger or helplessness. Later you might resign yourself to acceptance. I have felt all of these emotions and more during times of trial. One thought that always rings out to me is this "Nothing can happen to me that God hasn't allowed to pass through His hands. And... even though I don't understand what is going on, God does and it is for His purpose and glory." This is easier said than done. It may not be until many years later (if ever) that God reveals a glimpse of His plan. I know that trials strengthen our faith and provides a great witness for others of God's grace and His glory.

Right now, my family is going through a time of trial and testing with my sisters illness. Not only is she dealing with MS, but her medication has caused her to have a brain disease. Talk about stress and uncertainty. She is a Christian so she has the assurance that this is not the end for her.
A while back I did a Beth Moore study on the book of Daniel. One of the sessions talked about when people of God face a fiery trial. She said that we will have one of three scenarios:
"1. We can be delivered from the fire, which will build our faith.
2. We can be delivered through the fire, which will refine our faith.
3. We can be delivered by the fire into His arms, which will perfect our faith."

I know that God has a reason why He has allowed these health issues to afflict my sister. We just don't know what it is. I hold to the fact that He will strengthen our faith through this and we will be stronger in the end. Will it all be roses? No. Will it be hard? Yes, painful at times. I just have to rest in the Lord and He will help me (and my family) through this.

Please be in prayer for my sister, her husband, and her 3 precious daughters.