Supernatural Support

Nikki looked much better when we went to visit her in hospital today. She was sitting up in bed and was so happy to see her children. The doctors have still asked us to keep visitors to a minimum though. Her oncologist was off for the weekend so she will see him again tomorrow morning and he will make some decisions then about where to proceed from here.

I have had many people comment on how strong Nikki is and how she has handled this whole ordeal so bravely, which is true. I have also had comments from people about my own strength and courage in this situation. From my side, I usually reply that I walk daily in God's grace, strength and peace... The truth is that both Nikki and I as well as our families have witnessed God's incredible goodness and faithfulness and provision for us in the middle of this storm (Psalm 117:2 "For His merciful kindness is great toward us"). I have often had people ask me how it is that we are so strong and so brave.

Our pastor, Mark, used 2 Chronicles 16:9 as one of his scripture references in his sermon today, and this scripture suddenly opened up for me (I love it when that happens). It reads:

"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him."

So that's the answer then: When our lives and our hearts are committed to Him, He strengthens us supernaturally. He strongly supports a heart that is completely His. I am talking about mighty, supernatural support. Supernatural enabling is available to us as His children. That is the strength and support we know.

Psalm 46:1: "God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

Psalm 34:19: "A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all."

Note that trouble in life / a need for strength and support in these passages (and many like them) is assumed. Knowing God in the centre of these inevitable troubles / trials is the greatest blessing. When we face something this big, something way beyond our own strength and power, we can walk in His strength and allow Him to fully support us. And I am so thankful for that! I have no idea how we would find the strength out of our own resources.