April 22nd, 2015

“Something Karen Read Today”

Karen read a note today and does it ever fit her situation and the situation of many others around us. Before I share this with you, I want to mention that sometimes when a person is informed that he or she has cancer that becomes the total focus. It is easy to become so focused with the daily situation of appointments, treatments, and procedures that it is easy to lose sight of the fact that others are going through hard times as well. This has never been Karen’s situation. I have been blessed and an amazed at how she is sending notes of encouragement to others who are sorrowing or experiencing hardships. Her ministry to others is carrying on with new understanding and encouragement.

Today she read a little quip on a note written by Dr. Charles Swindoll from his book Growing Strong in the Season of Life. He used the verses from James 1:2-4 and then wrote, “Pearls are the product of pain—precious, tiny jewels conceived through irritation, born of adversity, nursed by adjustment.”  He’s exactly correct.

By the way, James said it this way, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall in various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4 NKJV).

That’s what we’re seeking to do in this present trial. Only the Lord can produce a pearl from this. Thanks for your prayers. Karen is pretty sore tonight but overall, it has been a very good day. Your prayers are so appreciated. Thanks for stopping by to check on us.

I used to tell our church families every Sunday evening, “Please remember how very much the Lord loves you. Karen and I do as well.” Please consider yourself reminded of how much you mean to us today.