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TRUST JESUS TODAY

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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Thanksgiving (04/18/05)
"I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.
I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." (Psalm 9:1-2)

Even though pain is my daily companion, I will still proclaim your glory, for you are my strength.

When I remember all you have done for me: you created me; you sent your son to die for me; you have poured your love on me, what else can I do? When I reflect on all the blessings you have shared with me: my family; my friends; my provisions, I marvel at your grace.

The miles driven out of town to doctors and specialists gave me time with you in song, prayer and restoration. Hours spent with medicine bags and needles have given me quiet moments in your Word.

While I pray for healing, I thank you for the health I have. I can see, hear, taste and feel. I can run, walk and work.

Though in pain, I will sing your praises. Though in agony, I will teach your Word. If there comes a day when I can no longer sing and my speech fails me, then I will write of your glory, your honor, your mercy and your grace.

Because of your great love, I am not consumed, for your compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23)

There are times, I confess, that I want to give up and cry out in agony, "I'm too young for this! I want to follow your will. I want to teach and encourage others, but the pain is too great, the burden is too heavy." Forgive me for my doubt. Who am I to question your wisdom? Help me to remember that we are to "rejoice in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Romans 5:3-4)

I wonder what you are teaching me in this trial. How will my character strengthen? Will I be more compassionate toward others? Am I learning to rely more fully on you? What victory can you bring forth from this affliction? I am anxious to see how your hand will work in my life.

Today, I stand before you, humbled by your presence. I enter your gates with thanksgiving, and your courts with praise; I give thanks to you and praise your name. For you are good and your love endures forever; your faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 100:4-5)

In Christ's name,
Amen
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This article has been read 1059 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Mary Nellum
04/25/05
You're written my hearts cry.

Thank you

Mary N
Dixie Phillips
04/25/05
Beautifully written from the heart! I know our HEAVENLY FATHER is very near to you! Excellent way of showing how to offer a sacrifice of praise!
Delores Baber
04/25/05
This piece was so personal. I could have written it myself. Pain seems to prevent us from doing things FOR Him, but your wisdom reminds everyone that nothing touches our lives that has no meaning. I will pray for you. Pray for me as well? For God loves us and there is a reason. Your piece has blessed me.
Val Clark
04/27/05
I felt truly humbled reading this piece. God bless you for sharing it.
Maxx .
04/27/05
Modern day Psalms. Very moving. Thank you
Lori Othouse 
04/27/05
What a beautiful testimony! And one that will speak to the hearts of many who read it. God bless you!
Phyllis Inniss 
04/28/05
This piece is surely a lesson for the more fortunate. Your songs and hymns of praise must touch the Most High and bring relief. We pray for you and praise God for your thankfulness.