Philippians 4:19 – And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (NIV 2011)

The e-mail response to my recent devotional of July 2nd, regarding my total hip replacement surgery, was overwhelming, as many readers were apparently able to relate to my plight. Now, in following up, I wish to share how God made all my complaints and fears seem silly.

Being a total "control freak" and always pushing forward, things around me often happen as a result of my own efforts. If there's a need to fill, whether it's driving someone or perhaps visiting a shut-in, I try to meet that need. This is not to say that I believe that these good deeds are moving me closer to heaven — they're not — but I am compelled to try and do as Christ would have done and still rely on His grace for my salvation.

Imagine my shock when I was facing six weeks of recovery from the hip surgery and especially being unable to drive myself for that period! Frankly, I was terrified of the surgery, not only because I knew that it wasn't the "bounce-back" type of health issue that I was used to, but also because I would need to depend on others for an extended period. In my foolishness, I felt sure that I would be alone and lonely for that six-week period, and that people would go on with their own lives and forget about me. The truth is that I was terrified of it all.

With a job and three children under the age of eleven, my daughter took time from her work and her family and stayed with me for a week. My wonderful son-in-law picked up the slack in their home. Additionally, friends and neighbours were offering to drive me everywhere, once I felt able to go. I really didn't miss an event the whole time that I was "grounded", because kind-hearted people actually did think about me and made sure that I was okay and had transportation when needed.

The experience was humbling: I had discounted God's mercy and the caring of all these people! Through this experience, I have learned that the whole process would have been much less stressful if I had just trusted that God would provide what I needed, both physically and practically. Then, I would have had peace in my spirit instead of fear. How does this speak to you?

Isaiah 26:3 – You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. (NIV 2011)

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You that You know what we need even before we are aware! Help us to trust You more, to "let go and let God". Also, Lord, please keep us mindful that there are others who are suffering or feeling abandoned, and lead us to provide support to them for Your glory. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Karen Abbott <kkabbott47@gmail.com>
Renfrew, Ontario, Canada
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