Lessons Learned on the Farm

• Nov. 11, 2009 - Strength

Sometimes I struggle with feeling weak. Physically I just can't do all that I want or sometimes even need to do. When people look at me, they can't see anything wrong. To them, I “look” healthy, but there can be quite a war going on within my body and mind even as I smile.; There are times when I've been in so much pain, that I've really thought about using one of the motorized carts at a store. But I haven't been able to do it. Deep down the idea of needing help just to get around is still too much for me. As silly as it may sound, the thought of going to the grocery store or a field trip with my kids can have me clinging to Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.; I have to remind myself that even though I may not be physically strong, I can still be mentally tough. I can be strong in the Lord, even when my body fails me.; Being strong is a choice, not a condition. God tells us to be strong in the Lord, not by our own power. Our strength comes from our union with Him, from his all-mighty power. Zechariah 4:6 says “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty.”; Being strong means remembering to walk by faith and not by sight, releasing the fears, and clinging to Truth. It means putting on the armor of God each and every day.; And that much I CAN do.; Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6: 14 – 17

Comments

• Nov. 11, 2009 - Well said

Posted by Mel

I do have to say that if you need one of those carts, go for it. And if anybody questions you, smile and hand them MY phone number. Tell them they'll get all the explanation they need there if they want to give you a hard time about anything. Then again I have also made that offer for people who have children with autism who have had others in the community say "It doesn't LOOK like there's anything wrong with him, what's his PROBLEM?" when an ASD child is obviously having a traumatic day.

If nothing else, the mental image of how that convo would go just gave you a chuckle. ;-)

You're in my thoughts and prayers, my dear friend. Love you!!!

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• Nov. 12, 2009 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Anonymous

Dear Nancy - strength doesn't always look the same. You have such strength of character, spriritual wisdom, and godliness. A couple of verses just came to mind...except I can't remember where they are found (don't you hate that)
The joy of the Lord is your strength.
When I am weak, then I am strong. His strength is made perfect in weakness.
I know in a little way that physical weakness is a catalyst for growing spiritual strength, by learning daily dependence on God, faith in his provision, hope that can only come from Him, and an appreciation for the day when we will mount up on wings like eagles, run and not be weary, walk and not faint--in the perfect place prepared for us!
Eleanor

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• Nov. 14, 2009 - From Kari

Posted by Anonymous

Nancy, I've been seeing Dr. Haase at the Maxwell Clinic in Clarksville for a few months now, and he really knows his stuff! If you don't mind paying a little extra for unconventional tests and stuff, I believe it would really benefit you to give him a try.

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• Nov. 20, 2009 - Untitled Comment

Posted by SandBetweenMyToes

I am so sorry that you have to struggle with so much pain. I am praying for you today. I, too, have one of those invisible medical conditions, so I know what that is like. Even when I explain it, people just don't get it. That's okay, if people don't get it. God does. Praying that He heals, nurtures, and strengthens you, friend.

Letitia

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