In 4 days it will be the 1 year anniversary of my hospitalization and battle with “flesh eating bacteria!” As I look back on 2013 I have to say, that experience is one of the best I have had. I know it’s not the common thing that most would say, to some it may sound “extreme” or “crazy,” but let me explain. I have personally witnessed more change for the good since that one event than any other event with the exception of my salvation experience. Here are some highlights:
Above is my arm today, just under 1 year from infection.
1) My miraculous healing has been an encouragement to others with aggressive diseases
2) I have learned to “let go, and let God” fully reign in my life, we are not in control; it’s time to fully surrender! “But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:24
3) To be one among many who witnessed the amazing power of prayer and for me personally to know how the prayers of many covered me and brought strength in a way I had never experienced; therefore, my own prayer life was brought to a “new level” of depth and purpose. ”Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.…” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
4) To know what it feels like to be the recipient of the love of the “church” and be taken care of with meals for many weeks from my spiritual family in Christ.
5) To witness the impact the experience has had on my family
6) Facing death and having absolutely no fear, but the hope of eternal life through Jesus. These verses from Paul in Philippians 1:18-21 say it all: “Yes, and I will rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain…”
7) Seeing this verse come to life: “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12. I am more mindful than ever that our days are numbered and to live each one with purpose and intention with our eternal destination in mind.
I believed it before but have experienced the following verse in a new way through my illness and recovery.
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
So now, what about you? Are you facing difficultly in your life in some area right now? Do you expect to see good things from the experience? God is so amazing! He can use messed up people, poor choices, illnesses, etc. and work it together for good! Look at Romans 8:28 again, He says “all things” He can work together for good! Look for the good, expect the good, watch for good, wait on the good, God is faithful, He will do what He promises to do! He can work all things for good. No counselor, doctor, advisor, or friend can make this sort of promise. I’m so grateful that God is the promise maker and the promise keeper! Do you love Him my friend? Do you know Him? If you don’t love Him, maybe you just “like” God, ask Him to help you love Him. It will change your life in so many positive ways. I can’t wait to see what God wants to do in and through your life. Living for Christ is an adventure into the many facets of true love.