Sunday, April 21, 2013

"they go from strength to strength"

Well hello!

My surgery went off so smoothly that my surgeon could scarce believe it.  He still talks about it every time I see him!  We both give God the glory as each of my doctors were expecting at least a small amount of complications.  I'm grateful to the anesthesiology team for their skill in avoiding certain drugs (muscle relaxants etc) that would have weakened my respiratory system, but are most always used in general anesthesia when putting somebody on a ventilator.  My surgeon did a wonderful job as always and encountered no problems.  Also, GI was able to come in after and give me a G-tube which has proven to be invaluable in symptom control, as well as releasing air so I can use my biPAP.

My Bible's bookmark has seemingly been permanently set between the pages of Psalms, the 85th.  The last six months have been particularly challenging, but as always reading passages brings me comfort knowing the truth they contain.  I love John, James, and Psalms in particular.  (John 15 has been my 'read' this week on repeat!)  

I just wanted to share this with you: One of my favorite doctors made a note about going from "strength to strength" as an encouragement to me.  I found it in my favorite Psalm 85, which I found to be very ironic.
Vs 5-7: "Blessed is the man whose strength is in You whose heart is set on pilgrimage as they pass through the Valley of Baca.  They make it a spring; the rain also covers it with pools.  They go from strength to strength.  Each one appears before God in Zion."
I think it's such a beautiful thought.  Even when nothing is going right, and it feels like there is nothing to keep me going-nothing to distract me or give me any purpose-I can rest assured that His strength is enough to carry me.  Often though, I do have little things throughout the day that make me smile, little "strengths" as I now think of them that keep me going.  Whether it's a bit of time studying, a message from a friend, or a bit of Scripture.

I hope everyone has a beautiful week, and a blessed day.
Love, Milly