“Not the Answer We Hoped For! But God is in Control”
Karen’s update for September 19th, 2016

There are times that every good parent tells their child “no” in response to a question or situation. Jeremiah quotes the Lord Who says, “Call unto me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things which you do know” (Jeremiah 33:3). As funny as it sounds, hundreds of us were praying that Karen’s situation would be on the less complicated side of being gallstones. She has every symptom of gallstones. However the doctor’s office just called and confirmed that there are no gallstones.

Now does this mean that she has no gallbladder disease? No. I can’t tell you how many folks have told us that nothing showed on their ultrasound either. But eventually they had their gallbladder removed because the symptoms so persisted. We have an appointment with the doctor later next week. We will keep you posted.

Here are some things in which we can be confident.
1. Mike and Karen surely appreciate your prayers and friendship. This would be a mighty long and lonely journey without you dear friends. Thank you for your kindness and love for us.

2. Mike and Karen are a little disappointed about the easier remedy not readily showing up. You know what disappointments are like, don’t you.

3. Mike and Karen are absolutely confident that our Father is a perfect parent. He loves His children with an indescribable love (Jeremiah 31:3). He is Lord (John 13:7) and has every right to answer with a no. The Apostle Paul prayed three times for the “thorn in his flesh” to be removed (2 Corinthians 12:7-8). God said “no” and what did the Apostle Paul do? Did he pout? Did he quit serving? Did he turn in his active missionary servant card? Of course not. Here’s what he said when God told him “My grace is sufficient for you. For my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest up on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

4. Mike and Karen know that the Lord has the answer to what is causing Karen’s present symptoms. So we ask the Lord for wisdom (James 1:5) and want to wait upon Him (Psalm 27:14) and be quiet before Him (Psalm 46:10). We want to learn more about the Lord and His plan for us.

We know that there will many tests ahead. When we know more I will update you all.