The Blessings Jar

“For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, ‘Do not fear; I will help you.'” Isaiah 41:13 NIV

I’ve had a good week. What joy it brings me to say that! I’m feeling good, and my strength is steadily returning. I’ve even been able to do one of the tasks on my list, little by little, until it was done. That brings me joy, too! I’m sure all this is an answer to prayer. Thank you for your prayers!

I spoke with my oncologist yesterday. A recent medical test I had done showed a slight growth in my tumor, but overall things have been better than anticipated. The team of specialists that are following my progress had thought I would need to begin some treatment (which I wasn’t sure I’d agree to do!), but after seeing my results they changed their minds. The plan at the moment is to hold steady and not rock the boat. And, of course, I keep praying for healing.

A friend of mine told me something special that she did. She has a friend who is battling stage 4 cancer. I’m sure it’s been hard for her.  To encourage her, my friend printed and cut out over a month’s worth of encouraging scriptures. She put them all in a “blessings” jar (I’ve attached a photo below). Her friend can pull out one each day to be reminded of God’s goodness, faithfulness, and love for her. I loved that idea!

In the midst of difficulty, it’s easy to see the hard things—but we sometimes forget the blessings that God has for us. During Floyd’s illness, I kept a file of songs, scriptures, and thoughts that encouraged me. I would go to that file often and let the Lord minister those things to me. I guess it was my “blessings file.” It was such a help to me.

God is with us each step of the way when we go through trials, sickness, and hard times. I’m so grateful I’m not alone.

“I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34:4).

Lord, help us not to focus on our difficulties, but on You and Your promises. Bear our burdens and bring encouragement to our hearts. Protect us from falling into the despair that our enemy tries to bring. You are a good God, and a loving and faithful Father! Amen.