Motivation for Sharing

“They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples…” We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.” Acts 14:21,22

I was asked recently what my thinking and my motivation was in writing the prayer updates. It was helpful to think back through all that has happened. What a journey it’s been!

When Floyd suddenly became severely ill, I knew he and I both needed prayer. A friend here helped me send out prayer emails, and a friend in the U.S. offered to set up a Facebook prayer page—the unexpected journey began. Neither they nor I had any clue of what was ahead of us and how long it would be! I am so grateful for their help!

Initially I shared news of Floyd’s condition and prayer requests. But within a very short time, I felt the Lord prompting me to share things He was speaking to me along the way, things He was teaching me. Over time the prayer update included prayer requests…and also recorded the “journey” I was on. I found it helpful to share. It somehow sealed things in my heart as I shared how God was helping and meeting me on the roller coaster I was on. I also began to pray that by sharing my journey it would somehow help others on their difficult journeys.

None of us like hard times, sickness, suffering, sacrifice, financial pressures. I certainly haven’t liked the suffering of recent years. But when we offer up to the Lord what we’re going through, when we ask Him to somehow use it for His glory—then He redeems the experiences and brings good out of it. I’ve seen that happen over and over and over again on our long unexpected journey. I see it as His goodness and faithfulness in the midst of the suffering. It helps give grace to keep walking the difficult path.

Every once in a while, I ask the Lord if I’m to keep writing the updates. So far, I’ve felt He has said I should. Part of the difficult journey is over now that Floyd has passed away. But the journey of grief and my journey with battling cancer and facing various other pressures continues. I still feel in the midst of a battle many days.

The wonderful “benefit” of writing these updates has been your prayer support. I can’t begin to tell you what a blessing, strength, and comfort your prayers have been to me. I’m convinced I couldn’t have made it without your prayers. I am eternally grateful to you for lifting my weary arms. Thank you from the depths of my heart! You have shared my burden and I’m so grateful.

Lord, You draw us closer to You by the events of our lives. You bring forth the gold that is mined from the deep pits of suffering. Your daily presence and closeness are treasures to us. Thank You. Amen.