Strength for the Journey

“It is He who gives strength to the weary, and it is He who increases fortitude and strength in those who are failing.

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will take up wings like eagles. They will run and not struggle. They will walk and not tire.” Isaiah 40:29,31

I have been comforted, fortified and encouraged with all the prayers and messages. But I cannot accept it when it is said of me that my faith is strong, and that I am brave. That is so far from the truth. Ask my family. I cannot take a taxi alone. I have a phobia of butterflies and our helper has to wave away a butterfly before I can go out into the garden. I went to driving school three times and never was brave enough to conquer Manila traffic. I get scared just crossing a street! 

But today, I am amazed. I slept well last night and did not have any anxiety at all. At 6 am today, I will undergo a coronary bypass to be followed by a  pulmonary artery embolectomy under deep hypothermic circulatory arresst. Ordinarily  I would be fearsome, and fraught with anxiety. Instead I am at peace. God is in control, all is well with my word. I have seen how God can give me peace beyond understanding, and strength for this journey even under the most trying circumstance. 

My sister came to visit. She said while at work, she felt out of sorts, but when she came into my room at the hospital, she felt relieved. Such is the strength of God’s grace! I am now claiming the 2nd part of the verse which says I will run and not struggle, walk and not tire!!!

God is good all the time. But I believe we experience Him more deeply during times of trial, especially if one has many to unite in prayer with.